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A Net round-up of the latest news and points of interest for early learning educators.
No surprise to any of us, the economic downturn is forcing states to slash Pre-K funding. Read this Associated Press article which outlines the cuts in several states.
The State of Indiana has new immunization rules for preschoolers. Read more.
Two recently released studies show that young children are feeling the long-term effects of the 9/11 disaster. Read more.
Farming for preschoolers? And in Spanish? A group of California preschoolers are not only learning to farm, but they're learning to farm in Spanish, thanks to a unique Spanish-immersion program. Read more.
Study of over 400 preschoolers commissioned by Los Angelese Universal Preschool finds preschool programs greatly benefit children. Read more.
If you're thinking about a new center, you may want to take a look at the TCC Early Learning Center Video Tour uploaded by McGranahan Architects, Tacoma, WA. It's a video tour of the Annette B. Weyerhaeuser Early Learning Center at Tacoma Community College. Flexibility is accommodated in each classroom, and easy maintenance and outdoor learning areas are featured. Plans and renderings are included in the video.
Put your students on the track to literacy. Harvard University's Dr. Catherine Snow focuses on three essentials in this Education World article.
Traditionally, it's moms that take the rap for preschool jitters. But dads get it too. Take a look at this columnist dad's viewpoint.
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A growing body of scientific evidence shows that early influences—whether positive or negative—are critical to the development of children’s brains and their lifelong health. Read more from Harvard University.
Readiness assesments - everyone has them, but few states actually use them. Read more.
Numerous studies show that early childhood education pays future dividends. So why are states like Minnesota not seeing the payoff that they should be? Read more for insight.
Despite budget cutbacks, New Mexico is allocating funds to early childhood education. Read why.
The cost of child care continues to be the biggest burden on working families. Click here to read about the results of family attitudes found in a recent study.
A recent Boston-based study has found that parents benefit from employer-based child care. Read more.
The Health Resources and Services Administration's Maternal and Child Bureau (MCHB) is conducting a Customer Satisfaction Survey of its Resource Centers. The Maternal and Child Health Bureau provides funding for the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education. To complete the anonymous survey, click here.
The ramifications of inadequate child care can have a long lasting, negative impact, according to a recently released, federally-funded study. Read more of this Washington Post article.
The U.S. Preventative Task Force is advising physicians that obesity screening should begin at age 6. Read more.
New research shows that some kid-friendly foods are necessarily kid friendly. A study recently published in the journal Pediatrics denotes a link between pesticides, found on some favorite fruits and vegetables, and higher incidences of ADHA. Read more.
It’s true! What’s fair, and not fair, isn’t always the same. It depends upon how old you are, at least that’s what some researchers think. Read more.
First it was middle schools, then elementary, and now it’s preschools. The first bill to ban sugary drinks in preschool has been introduced in California. Read more.
Some California teachers believe a good portion of CA kindergardeners are not ready for Kindergarden. Read about the pending legislation.
Is Language certification for preschool teachers in Illinois on its way? Read more about this Illinois Board of Education proposal.
A new study shows that children who live with relatives instead of their parents may be at an increased risk for both physical and mental health problems. Read more.
The quality of the teacher can make a difference in the rate at which a child learns to read, according to a Florida University study. Read more of this American Psychological Association article.
Disadvantaged preschoolers lag behind other preschoolers in motor skill development according to a recently released Ohio State University study. Read more.
School water fountains may help in the fight against obesity. A recent year-long German study found that kids in schools that encouraged water drinking were 31% less likely to be overweight. Read more.
Few would argue that today’s children spend less time outdoors than their parents did. Few would also argue that this is a good thing. ABC News offers a few tips from experts on how to encourage kids to spend more time outdoors.
Keeping kids Above the Line....it's a new behavoir managment tool that uses kids knowledge of above and below. Read more at Education World.
Spring break fun for preschoolers. Here's some ideas you can share with parents from PBS.
Of couse it's something we've known for years...preschool education is extremely important. Find out why business advoactes are weighing in. Read more.
Des Moines Iowas is expanding preschool programs despite lack of funding. Find out why.
Washington state is looking to expand their authority over preschools. Read more.
New York's innovative Blue School finds being different isn't easy. Read more.
Looking for the newest health information? Check out on of the Top 50 Early Childhood Health Blogs
Those hot dogs could be dangerous! Experts issue new cries about the hazards of choking on hot dogs and candy.
Could this be the start? Wisconsin day care centers may begin using fingerprint scans to fight fraud. Read more.
Contemplating in-service training for your staff? Child Care Lounge offers a list of benefits.
At one time or another, almost every caregiver will have to deal with the issue of bullying. Researchers believe that a child’s failure to pick up on non-verbal cues may be a significant factor in deciding who gets bullied. Read more.
A computer test for ADHD? Yes, it exists. Watch this video from FOX news.
The White House Middle Class Task Force has proposed an increase in tax credits for those with children and elders in care. Read more.
Bring those sand and water tables out of storage! Experts recommend teaching science at an earlier age. Read more of this Education Week story.
In October, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) conducted a survey of early education and child care professionals. One of the findings from the survey was that HCCA resources are being underutilized. In response, the AAP developed a 1-page handout about the program and what resources providers may find helpful. Please feel free to print and disseminate this handout to make sure that our colleagues are taking full advantage of our program's resources.
Early Childhood Research Quarterly has published the results of the national survey “Practices that support the Transition to Public Programs.”
A child’s pediatrician may be the most influential person for naptime. Read more.
Are there benefits to all form of exercise? Or is there a right way and a wrong way when it comes to exercise? Experts believe that all activity may not be equal. Read more in this HealthDay article.
Health officials believe the H1N1 virus is waning, as only four states report widespread outbreaks. Read more.
Health experts are calling for heart disease screenings for kids, especially those who play sports. If you have an after-care program, you may want to check out the full article.
Although it may be winter, the state of Wisconsin is feeling some heat as a statewide audit has found overdue inspections and incomplete criminal background checks, while a year-long investigation by the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has uncovered a variety of shams and scams.
A bill requiring childcare providers across the U.S. to have thorough background checks – including FBI fingerprinting – was introduced to the U.S. Senate last month. Read more.
In light of the prevalence of influenza this winter, the CDC has released information for pregnant women working in education and child care. Click here to read.
The Center for Disease Control is releasing new guidance to help decrease the spread of the flu. Visit Flu.com to view a toolkit for Child Care Programs and read the newly released technical report.
For some centers the new year can bring new hires. Before you update that job description, take a look at the sample descriptions put together by ChildCare Lounge.
The Military Child Care Act is responsible for what some are calling a "model" child care system. Read more about the remarks made by the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Military, Community and Family Policy.
State budget cuts have resulted in the swelling of waiting lists for many receiving, or looking to receive, child-care subsidies. Read more.
Despite the declining economy, the state of Washington believes the time is right for investing in pre-kindergarten readiness. Read more.
At some point, anyone involved in education, adminstrators, teachers and parents alike, have all seen children dressed inappropriately for school. But what most don't realize is is that this may be having a negative impact on all children. Read more.
60 minutes of physical education per day, oral health education and progress reports are just a few of the changes coming to Massachusetts January 1. Read more. And more.
Although they always seem to be in constant motion, Australian researchers have found that most preschoolers are not active enough. Read more on this Deakin University study.
Upcoming Arizona increase in licensing fees could have overwhelming costs. Read more.
A group of British researchers believe that a child’s reputation may influence how they’re perceived by teachers. Read more.
Illinois Governor Quinn makes changes to aid low-income families struggling with child care affordability. Read more.
Through December, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center to Prevent Childhood Obesity is sponsoring a webinar series on childhood obesity. Find out more about Let’s End the Childhood Obesity Epidemic webinars.
Dealing with difficult parents? How do you keep cool when managing child behavior? How do you manage young bullies? These are just a few of the podcasts available from Early Childhood News’ ECN Radio, where early childhood experts weigh in on a variety of topics.
What is the state of Pre-K in your state? To find out, check the Pre-K map available from the folks at Pre-K now.
After failing to comply with federal guidelines, the State of Vermont has finally restructured subsidized child care.
Mental health workers in child care facilities – do they make a difference? Read more from the Wall Street Journal.
Can investments in early childhood education lead to economic recovery? Experts think so, read why.
One state is using federal stimulus dollars to provide day care for unemployed parents. See how.
Preschoolers are one of the at-risk groups for the H1N1 flu virus, and the government recently released guidelines specifically for daycare. See how preschools around the country are preparing and view the NAEYC response
A recent study has found that preschoolers do get depressed. Read more.
Around the country, state budget cuts are having a negative effect on child care centers. Ohio, Pennsylvania, Arizona, New York, California and Illinois are just a few. But in some areas stimulus funds are helping preschools. See how Connecticut is using these funds.
Tutoring preschoolers – is this an up and coming trend? MSNBC takes a look.
A recent study has found that there is no benefit to screening children younger than 6 for developmental language disorders. Read more.
During initial preschool visits, parents may ask for help in making the transition from home to school as easy as possible. Here’s a selection of books that parents can use to help ease the transition.
Foreign language classes can aid in the development of English language skills. Read about second language development in preschoolers.
A few reasons why early education is “worth it”. Read excerpts from a Parent & Child article.
For almost a century Lighthouse International has provided assistance to the blind and visually-impaired. Now, they’ve opened a landmark Child Development Center, where both sighted and visually-impaired children work together. Read more about this unique CDC.
An Australian study that has followed an initial group of children for the past six years reports that the first three years of age are more critical to their success in school than the year immediately prior to entering school. Read more.
Next month brings new faces to preschool. Childcarelounge.com offers some insight into welcoming and transitioning newcomers to your daycare.
New research shows that depression may be seen in children as young as 3. Read more on this controversial study from Psychology in the News.
A study in a leading medical journal suggests that military deployment takes a toll on children in military families and that children of deployed parents show an increased risk of psychosocial problems. Read more.
Kansas State University researchers conclude that after-school programs for children that offer physical activity and nutritous snacks - the marks of a quality after-care programs - are an important factor in overall health. Read more.
In an attempt to combat childhood obesity, the California State Assembly has passed a bill regulating food at childcare centers. Read more.
Researchers have found a strong correlation between non-napping children and dysfunctional behavior. The Pennsylvania State University study found that non-napping children exhibit more symptoms of hyperactivity, depression and anxiety than their napping counterparts. Read more.
The city of Kalamazoo, Michigan, has recognized early childhood education as a top community priority, and is discussing an ambitious $8 million program to provide quality preschool to every 4-year old in the city. Read more.
Stumped for new ideas on how to keep your kids busy this summer? Looking for something new? Early Childhood News has some fresh ideas! Read here.
Your staff is your center. And creating a positive work environment is essential to staff retention. Childcarelounge.com has assembled some tips on enhancing staff morale. Read here.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has issued an update on the H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Guidelines for Caregivers. Find it here.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families recently issued the Child Care and Development Fund Plan. Click here to view it.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center believe that most children in daycare are not getting enough exercise. Read more at HealthNewsDigest.com.
Preschoolers exposure to peers with strong language skills can have a significant impact on a child’s own speech development. Read more in this Education Week story.
The recession is taking a toll not only on adults, but on children as well. Read more about how kids are struggling in this Associated Press story.
A nonprofit think tank believes that California’s pre-school standards are too low, resulting in too-wide of an achievement gap among students. Read more.
With 53 more school districts awarded funding for preschool programs, Iowa is a step closer towards their goal of having 90% of the state’s 4-year olds enrolled in preschool. Read more.
June marks the end of the school year and brings with it many parents asking “is my preschooler ready for kindergarten?” Refer them to this about.com article for tips in trying to decide.
The Federal Economic Stimulus Plan will be pumping over $2 billion into early childhood education and $300 million into vaccines for less fortunate Americans. Read more…
If fruits and vegetables are presented to children as a snack, more often than not, they will eat them when offered, two recent studies show. However, the availability of these foods means good nutrition comes at a price. Read more…
Could normal child impulsiveness lead to obesity? A recent study believes this is true. Read more at Time/CNN.
Researchers believe that some children may be more prone to schoolyard bullying than others, and that perhaps this is occurring earlier in life than originally thought. Read more on this study of preschoolers.
The U.S. Senate approved the Boxer Amendment which grants improved tax credits to families for child care.
Pennsylvania State officials say that investing in early childhood education may pay big dividends in the future. Read more.
New York City offers Child Care Tax Credit for residents. Read more.
Recently approved stimulus law to help early childhood. Read more
A $2 million grant will help fund Cleveland-area preschool arts programs. Read more.
The importance of inviting family into the classroom is growing in the early learning environment. If it’s something that’s new to yours, Early Childhood News has some pointers to help make parents, teachers, and children comfortable.
A recent report shows that public schools in Ohio and other states need to do more to help kids transition into school. Read more.
Mayo Clinic researchers believe they have found a link between early childhood anesthesia and learning disabilities.
Story time improve more than just literacy and communication skills, it can improve math skills as well. Read more in this article from Library Journal.
Rates of infant suffocation and strangulation in bed have increased dramatically, a recent report finds. Read more from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Food insecurities are more commonly found in children of non-citizen immigrants than those whose parents are citizens, a recent study by ChildTrends found.
The National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies has recently released their report on the differing standards between licensed child care centers and state-funded pre-k programs. Read more at the NACCR website.
Are preschoolers out of control? Decide for yourself after viewing this segment from ABC News.
An Indiana preschool class has learned that even at their young age, they can make a difference in their community. See how this group of enterprising preschoolers helped their community.
The economic downturn is affecting many businesses, including childcare. ABC news recently covered the issue. Click here for more.
One out of every 150 children is born with autism. And reaching these children can present a challenge to caregivers. Music has proved to be one way to communicate, one which can be easily incorporated into a curriculum. Read more.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has warned of a spike in Hib-linked Meningitis in Children. Five Minnesota children have fallen ill with Meningitis in the past year, the highest number of cases recorded since 1992. Read more.
The Children’s Defense Fund has issued their 2008 State of America’s Children Report, and the findings are not impressive. Read more about this year’s report.
Should childhood anxiety orders be treated? One expert believes that if left untreated, they may lead to educational underachievement and adult substance abuse. Read more about this study.
A recent study by researchers has found that the skills needed to develop healthy eating habits may not be developed enough in pre-school children, leaving them with unhealthy eating habits as they move into full-time school. Read more of this article in Medical News Today.
Children’s stress levels may be influenced by their relationship with their caregiver, a recent study found. Read more of this Child Development article.
The American Academy of Pediatrics handout Preventing the Flu in 2008-2009: Strategies and Resources for Child Care Providers and Out-of-Home Caregivers of Children has been updated and is now available on the homepage of the Section Web site: http://www.healthychildcare.org/. We encourage you to share this handout with your child care colleagues to educate them on the importance of the flu vaccine.
Researchers have found that children born in the fall have a higher incidence of asthma than children born at other times of the year, Medical News Today reports.
Some educators believe that universal preschool is not working. Read more in this San Francisco Chronicle article.
Edutopia magazine has posted an on-line interview with Stanford Educator Linda Darling-Hammond discussing why social and emotional learning is crucial to teaching the whole child.
Communicating with parents can be a challenge, even for the most seasoned professionals. Early Childhood News tackles the subject and provides some insight and tips.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has developed a Reducing the Risk of SIDS in Child Care Speaker's Kit. This is a tool that can be used by child care providers and others to educate their community about sudden infant death syndrome in child care. Download a copy here.
Even with the current economic downturn, prek education is still a priority according to research by the Pew Charitable Trust. Read more, or view the television clip, here.
The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Childcare Early Education has just released a report on what states require for child care centers and home daycares to operate. Click here to view more information.
Only 38% of New York State’s 4-year olds attend state-financed pre-kindergarten classes. Almost 10 years after leaders promised to work towards implementing state-funded care, almost a 1/3 of local districts do not have a program. Read why universal pre-k is not working for all of New York.
It’s estimated that 13 of every 1000 early learners are expelled from their preschool program. Unfortunately, expulsion is the end result for many children who are unruly and disruptive, but yet studies show that preschool is crucial to the future success of students. A new Federal grant will help educators keep these children in early childhood programs. Read more.
In growing numbers, districts are creating inclusive classrooms. This combining of special-needs students and general-education students is designed to give students a better understanding of each other. Read more.
Scientists believe sleep apnea may be to blame for the behavorial problems of thousands of children. Read more at Medical News Today.
The U.S. Department of Education has awarded more than $5.6 million to the state of North Dakota for the development and implementation of a literacy program for early learners. Read more.
What are parents told to look for in evaluating child care? Read more on how the Arizona Child Care Resource and referral, a state agency, recommends parents look for.
The State of Minnesotta has developed a child care rating system to help parents evaluate child care providers. Read more about Parent Aware, the state’s new rating system.
Some economists say social skills learned in early childhood are important to reaching success later in life. Read more to see why reserarchers think there’s a payoff.
A recent study of preschool in Oklahoma found that the state’s preschool for all program dramatically boosted school readiness. Read more of this Georgetown University study.
New legislation in the Garden State increases annual inspections. A bill being introduced to the New Jersey legislature in September will increase the frequency of daycare inspections from every three years to annually. Read more.
Are children naturally empathetic? A recent University of Chicago study has found that children may be naturally wired to feel empathy for others. Read more.
Scientists believe they have found a correlation between early-childhood and nutrition and adult IQ. Read more.
Are parents/provider conflicts dampening the atmosphere of your center? How do you react to unexpected news or impatient parents? Author Sheri Karan has some advice on keeping parent/provider relationships healthy.
For fiscal year 2009, 16 governors and the mayor of the District of Columbia have put forth proposals total $261 million in increased funding for pre-k that would make early childhood education programs available to 60,000 more children, if passed by state legislatures. View the report on these proposals.
After its first year in service, public/private partnership to provide preschool scholarships has found success in Ohio. Read more about the Invest in Children program in Cuyahoga County, OH.
Gov. Rod Blagojevich recently extended funding for the Preschool for All program in Illinois, a program that allows every community to provide preschool services. Read more.
Stress experienced by children in their early years can affect them as adults according to a Harvard professor. Read more…
Guns and Gangs for Preschoolers? Read why a Chicago early learning educator has earned a 2008 Kohl McCormick Early Childhood Teaching Award.for dealing with a tough subject for preschoolers. Los Angeles Times.
Toddler preschool, is it the future for daycare? A $6 million federal grant is allowing Houston, TX and Tallahassee, FL to test out preschool for low-income 2 and 3-year olds. Read more.
The State of Tennessee has received national recognition for its daycare efforts. Read why.
Can three-year olds be goal oriented? Researchers believe that kids grow into the ability to act in pursuit of goals and that even at age 3, they can expect a certain outcome from behavior. Read more at the American Psychological Association web site.
20 states have expanded and enhanced federal early Head Start services. Read the complete April 2008 study at Child Care & Early Education Research Connections.
Can daycare prevent cancer? In a recent study, researchers believe that the immunities that children build up during their early childhood years in daycare may help prevent the development of childhood leukemia.
The Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative will be expanded, thanks to a $3 Million grant from the McKnight Foundation.
New Hampshire has recently set new guidelines and stricter standards for early childhood education in the state. A collaborative process between experts, state staffers and providers has resulted in a total licensing revision.
Do parents at your center ask for away-from-home daycare referrals? If so, here are some suggestions to give them from about.com.
Research over the past several years indicates the early childhood education is beneficial in the development of children. But experts differ on the developmental time frame in which it is most beneficial. Psychology in the News explores this issue.
Poor sleep may be a risk factor for injuries in preschoolers. New research has found that toddlers who don’t get enough sleep are at greater risk for injury. Read more.
NACCRRA’s report, We Can Do Better: NACCRRA’s Ranking of State Child Care Center Standards and Oversight, reveals that states fall far short of meeting basic requirements needed to protect the health and safety of children in child care, and to promote their school readiness. Read more.
Child Care Providers Together , a group of Wisconsin licensed in-home child care providers have reached a landmark deal with the state that provides new rights and a formal role in the regulatory process for providers represented by the union.
If approved by union members, the agreement would establish an ongoing discussion between providers and regulators, allowing the providers to give input on rules and regulations, and mechanisms put in place to make sure the rules are applied fairly and consistently. Read more.
If you’ve ever wondered how preschool curriculums are structured in European countries, the San Francisco Chronicle offers some insight in the more unstructured Russian preschool programs, while Edutopia magazine explores whether Swedish preschools are better than their U.S. counterparts.
Project-Based Learning can expand the minds of young children, opening new worlds to them as early learners. An award-winning kindergarten learning center in Auburn, Alabama, may serves as a model for showing that early learners can benefit from PBL. Read more in Edutopia Magazine.
You’ve heard of 5-star hotels, but have you heard of 5-star child-care centers? You may soon, as Missouri has taken the first step towards creating a ranking system for child-care centers. Read more.
Researchers have found that playing numerical board games may increase the math skills of low-income preschoolers. Read more of this article as published in Child Development.
Do parents of preschoolers expect their children to come home with worksheets? Is there a strong link between daily worksheets and literacy readiness? Is your environment a print-rich environment? Explore this issue with Child Care Lounge.
Does obesity-prevention in preschoolers pay off? Researchers believe weight-control intervention can instill healthy eating habits in children ages 2-5. Read more about this recent study.
As the weather warms up and kids head outside to play team sports, you may find yourself trying to teach a little bit about sportsmanship as well. Do young children really understand the concept of winning and losing? Read more.
Outdoor play in dirt and sand may be increase the chance of exposure to E-coli. KidSource offers some information and tips on preventing the spread of this deadly bacteria in young children.
Can parenting courses put kids on the right path?A recent study shows that a crash course in parenting skills may lead to significant behavioral changes in at-risk children whose parents are taught to better communicate. Read more..
Can high quality child care keep children from developing behavioral problems late in life? An Australian study says yes. Read more.
Kansas has joined six other states in developing child care standards. This endorsement recognizes the professional development of child care workers. Read more.
Nebraska allocates $2 million in grants to early learners. As a result of 2006 legislation, state funds have been released to award grant funds to Nebraska public school districts to partner with a community organization to run an early learning program. To apply, click here.
17,000 Child-Care Providers eligible to join the union.
A May 2000 Executive Order signed by New York Governor Spitzer giving home-based daycare workers the right to join the union has resulted in 17,000 daycare workers being eligible to join the Civil Service Employees Association.
Ohio Child Care Workers May unionize
In Ohio, Governor Strickland recently signed legislation allowing the unionization of child-care workers paid through state programs.
Math is alive in preschools! Math comes naturally to preschoolers. Researchers have recently found that during play time, nearly half of every minutes involved math. Through the use of blocks, patterns, and shapes, preschoolers are developing their math skills. See how to reinforce these skills.
Citing developing immune systems and the likelihood of spreading germs as putting preschoolers more at risk, the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services recently approved a requirement requiring flu shots for all children entering preschool in September, 2008. New Jersey is the first state with such a requirement.
President Bush recently signed legislation reauthorizing the Head Start program for another 5 years. Head Start is the federal preschool program for poor children. The bill raised the eligibility ceiling and takes steps to ensure that teachers are better qualified Read more.
Temper tantrums are usually synonymous with the two- and three-year old set. But can some tantrum styles indicate a deeper problem? Read more in this recent study by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis.
Is there a correlation between a child’s weight, behavior, and the amount of sleep that they receive? Published in the January issue of SLEEP magazine, researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand believe that they have found a link. For more information on sleep and children, visit the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
A Quality Rating System will soon be implemented in the State of Indiana. Covering homes, licensed centers and ministry facilities, the rating system is designed to help parents determine which type of environment is best for their child. Click here for more information.
Researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have found that television viewing among children age 2.5 to 5.5 years of age for two or more hours can lead to behavioral problems and poor social skills.
A group of child mental health professionals from the Bradley Hasbro Children's Research Center and 11 other institutions have developed recommendations for specific mental health disorders to help clinicians who are considering medications for children ages 3 to 6 in an attempt to standardize treatment methods. Read the findings in December issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Having a playground equipped with climbing equipment, balls, hula hoops and other portable equipment helps preschoolers play longer and with a harder intensity, a study by researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Public Health recently found. The study will be published in the January 2008 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Click here for more information.
Almost 47,000 children who endured 2005 Hurricane Katrina are experiencing mental health issues and struggling with a lack of medical services. Read more of this New York Times article.
Over 28,000 New York City child care providers will join the teachers’ union. Read more in this New York Times article.
California recently banned the chemical phthalate from being used in manufacturing baby products and children's toys. The new regulation goes into effect in January of 2009, and several other states are considering similar action. Read more.
ChildTrends, a non-profit research organization, has recently released a study that shows that progress towards full immunization of all preschoolers has stalled since 2004.
How is child care evolving? What effect is corporate care having? What role is technology playing? Explore the 9 Trends in Child Care
Did you know that many parents underestimate the value of early education? Read more on this recent study..
As an early childhood educator, you are looked upon as an information source for parents. About.com has a variety of information designed to help educate parents on early learning. From a To created a short video that is viewable on the web.
Cribs, mattresses and pacifiers are just a few of the most recent product recalls. Click here for a brief synopsis, or visit the U.S. Product Safety Commission for the latest recalled play yards.
It’s that time of year again! Time for children to enter into or move up in daycare. With new children, new teachers, and new parents, the early learning environment can be exceptionally challenging for the first few weeks as everyone adjusts. To try and help make this transition easier, we’ve found some sites that offer helpful information.
The Family Education Network offers tips for parents to ready their preschool child for the transition from summer to school. NAEYC also offers tips on helping children adjust for both parents and care-givers.
Childcare Lounge offers some general guidance during this transitional period.
Establishing a preschool routine for children with challenging behavior can be challenging in itself, especially to new teachers. The Florida Mental Health Institute offers some guidance via a user-manual filled with strategies and techniques for dealing with challenging behavior, as well as handouts, templates and hyperlinked support and materials.
Featuring the expertise of nationally prominent faculty, the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning offers a series of “What Works Briefs”. These briefs tackle issues such as Helping Children Understand Routines and Classroom Schedules; Helping Children Make Transitions between Activities, and 19 others that address common preschool issues.
More than 200 people from home or center-based daycares are receiving a stipend for taking child care courses in California, thanks to the state’s Proposition 10 tax to promote early childhood programs. Read more about this child-care incentive.
A new study suggest that a non-medicative approach to treating preschooler Attention Defitcit Hyperactivy Disorder (ADHD) may be effective. Funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, this is the largest study of its kind involving children between the ages of three and five. Read more.
A recent study affirms the long-term value of public early childhood enrichment programs. Published in the August issue of the Archive of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, the University of Minnesota study found a direct correlation between the program and educational attainment of alumni.
In an attempt to enhance the quality of center based care in New Jersey, a local child care resource and referral agency is preparing to introduce a new accreditation project, “Together 4 Quality". Read more about this initiative…
In May, Illinois became the second state to pass legislation requiring the use of “green” cleaning products in schools. Read more about the Green Clean Schools Act at The Healthy Schools Campaign.
A recent report issued by Child Trends social service agency finds that one in eight U.S. households with infants is food insecure. Visit their website www.childtrends.org to read the report.
Pediatrics recently published the results of a study that show that physical factors influence hygiene in child care settings. The objective of the study was to determine whether the installation of diaper-changing, hand-washing, and food-preparation equipment that was specifically designed to reduce the transmission of infectious agents in child care centers would result in a decrease in the rate of diarrheal illness among children and reduce their teachers' absences as a result of illness while controlling for caregiver hygiene training. The results, published by Jonathan Kotch, MD, MPH, FAAP, appear in the July, 2007 issue of Pediatrics: Hand-Washing and Diapering Equipment Reduces Disease Among Children in Out-of-Home Child Care Centers
The National Child Care Information Center has recently launched the Partnerships, Alliances, and Coordination Techniques (PACT) initiative. PACT provides training and technical assistance on partnership issues to State, Territory, and Tribal policy-makers. Visit their website for more information.
Establishing positive teacher-child interaction is a necessity in every child care environment. And it may be growing in importance as the family-child environment becomes less stable for some children. Family Child Care Connections explores the relationship in a past issue of their newsletter.
Are you looking for a way to connect your kids with nature? If so, you may want to investigate a new program from the National Arbor Day Foundation. They’ve recently launched the Nature Explore program, offering fun and effective resources for educators, parents and caregivers.
The U.S. Census Bureau has just released The 2006 America’s Families and Living Arrangements, a Current Population survey report that offers a snapshot into American Households.
When you’re a preschooler, finding friends isn’t easy for everyone. Help your charges make, and keep, friendships with these tips for parents and caregivers.
What role do parents play in the success or failure of of out-of-school time programs? Child Trends has recently issued a brief exploring the relationship.
If you’re a practitioner involved in, or thinking of starting an out-of-school time program, you’ll want to read Child Trends brief on Improving Attendance and Retention of Out-of-School Time Programs.
The State Board of Education for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has adopted rules requiring certification for early-learning educators by January, 2013. Read more…
High quality daycare can counteract the effects of a disadvantaged environment, according to a study published in the journal Child Development.. Visit MSNBC for more on the findings.
Do you know what a Round-Up is? Is it time for one at your center? Read all about it and see if there’s a place for a round-up in your center’s future!
The Epilepsy Foundation has created a new section on their website specifically dedicated to parents of infants with Epilepsy. Visit their site to read more and educate yourself on epilepsy in young children.
A recent study in the Elementary School Journal has found that non-native speaking kindegartners learn English vocabulary faster that their native counterparts. Read more of this fascinating study.
If you’re looking for resources relating to financing early education, then the Alliance for Early Childhood Finance is a place you don’t want to miss. This collaborative effort offers helpful links, ideas, meetings and on-line discussions designed to help those in and utilizing the industry.
Children’s teething rings, vinyl baby bibs, and preschooler toys are just a few of this month’s U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s latest recalls.
In March, the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRA) issued their New State Report Card on Childcare. Click here to download the full report.
On May 2, 2007, The House of Representatives approved an expanded Headstart program. Click here for the Washington Times coverage.
This month, Teachers and Families offers Tips for Parents and Teachers on talking with kids about violence. – Acts of violence can confuse and frighten children, who will often look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. This article presents parents and school personnel with tips to help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears. Parenting Priorities newsletter.
Music plays an important role in our lives. It’s at work, at home, at play. It can offer stimulation, yet relaxation. It can lift your mood, yet dampen your mood. And it plays an important role in a child’s development. In their newsletter the Daily Parent, Child Care Aware examines the role of music to children’s growth and development.
California ranks 37th in the nation in preschool enrollment. The demand is there, but the resources aren’t. See how some pioneering preschools are paving the way for the future in this new report available from Children Now
Encourage your local media to run Public Service Announcements (PSAs) on radio and television regarding early childhood issues. PSA’s serve as a tool for States and organizations who want to reach a large audience in order to create public support for high-quality care and education for young children. The National Child Care and Information Center site hosts a sampling of State and national organizations that have created PSAs for this purpose.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center researchers have found antibiotic ear drops performed better in treating children with ear tubes for middle ear infections than oral antibiotics. Read more…
For caregivers, 10 simple ways to show you care:
The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education (NRC) is has introduced new web-based tool, Healthy Kids, Healthy Care www.healthykids.us. This tool is designed to assist parents in evaluating/choosing quality child care programs and working in tandem with child care providers.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has released the 2007 Immunization schedule. Click here for a copy
Need some help with flu prevention strategies? Here are some tips designed specifically for child care providers.
Searching for some new physical fitness activities? The Administration for Children & Families has introduced FitSource, a web site that links providers with nutrition and fitness resources.
With cold, dry weather coming, fall leaf- burning and in some areas, crop harvesting, the incidence of asthma increases sharply this time of year. The President’s Task Force on Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children states that the rate of asthma in children less than 5 years of age has risen by 160 percent over the past 15 years, and asthma is now considered a national epidemic. With the prevalence of pediatric asthma, caregivers need to be just as educated as parents. Luckily, there are many websites with information. About.com offers a well-rounded introduction and a screening quiz; you can download a pdf of the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma; or view the President’s Task Force findings on Asthma and Children at http://www.epa.gov .
Is staff conflict a problem at your center? Child Care Exchange takes a look at the issue and offers tip to manage it in this on-line article.
If you’re located in California and thinking of starting an After-School program, Children Now has help! They’ve assembled a packet of helpful information for applying for new state funding. You can download it for free - California After School Kit. Also see a legislative summary from the Child Care Law Center.
Children with challenging behaviors are children at tremendous risk. Early intervention plays a pivotal role in their development. The National Network for Childcare has recently posted a Challenging Behavoir fact sheet and two informative articles designed to help educators understand and formulate policies to manage and support these children
We believe that fostering self-esteem in young children will help them grow and successfully navigate the path to adulthood. But how do you foster self-esteem in young children? The Extension Cares Initiative of the Texas Extension offers some answers.
The new NAEYC annual report is now on line. Click here to view it.
To what extent can a toddler be taught about responsibility? Toddlers Today takes a look at this issue.
Is “Drop and Run” a problem at your center? Robin McClure, childcare expert at About.com, offers some insight and strategies.
Beginning at an early age, children try to assert their independence. But sometimes, this assertion can result in bad habits.The National Association of School Psychologists offers some tips for parents on fostering independence in children.
Parents and caregivers partnering together can create a successful potty-training experience at both home and daycare. About.com shares some tips for this partnership.
When trauma occurs, most of us can talk to our children. But how about the younger children? How do we explain some of life’s more difficult issues? Dr. Steven Marins takes a look at this important issue. The National Association of School Psychologists has also put together some helpful tips for both parents and caregivers on understanding death and grief.
Daycare may relieve the stress of children of stressed-out parents. Click here to view the complete study.
Universal preschool has been a red-hot topic. Preschool California has compiled an extensive list of recent media articles on the subject. Click here to view a link to the articles.
Healthy kids learn by example. IParenting discusses the benefits of early childhood exercise - not just for the child, but for the family.
In October 2005 the American Academy of Pediatrics revised their policy statement on recommendations on reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Click here to view the report.
Is biting a problem at your center? The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education has compiled information for both parent and caregiver.
In the Classroom: Learning to Make Smooth Transitions
An important task for preschool and kindergarten teachers is to help children move from one activity to another without letting them become confused, bored, or frustrated. According to the Center on Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning, preparing smooth transitions between activities not only keeps students engaged in the lessons of the day, but also helps students become independent and responsible. This article offers techniques for teachers on how to plan their curriculum and improve transitions. Facts in Action
Is Early Care and Education (ECE) Worth the Investment?Although high quality early care and education (ECE) may seem expensive, its investment is key to improving the lives of children and families. Through cost-benefit analyses, a process of adding up and comparing the costs and benefits of a project and/or program, researchers have determined that high quality early childhood programs provide children and taxpayers with short- and long-term benefits that on average are greater than the estimated costs. Read here to learn more about the costs and benefits of early care and education. Facts in Action
Report On Minnesota Policy to Improve Child Care Quality
Tiered Reimbursement in Minnesota Child Care Settings examines the effectiveness of a policy strategy designed to help low-income children access high-quality child care settings. ChildTrends
CCR&R Resources to Support Challenging Behavior
NACCRRA joins efforts with other national organizations to make technical assistance, resources, and training available to CCR&R staff who work with child care providers and families dealing with children exhibiting challenging behaviors. The materials and technical assistance are designed to help early care and education professionals and families promote the positive social and emotional developement and mental health of young children. NACCRA
Computers and Young Children Whether we use technology with young children--and if so, how-are critical issues facing early childhood educators and parents. This article discusses questions about when children should start using computers; developmentally appropriate computer activities in preschool, kindergarten, and early primary classrooms; benefits of computer use; integration of computers into classrooms; and teacher training. KidSource.
Are your seats safe? The 2005 Safety Seats were the most positive ratings ever. Click here to see the ratings.
Carseats, and the fact that nearly a quarter of a million children are too heavy for theirs, have been in the news the last several weeks. About.com has a list of larger seats for those who may need one.
Does bullying occur in preschools? Preschooler Today takes a look at the issue of bullying.
Do you have a problem with biting children? In this About.com discussion forum, parents and caregivers offer some practical tips in combating this painful issue.
A National Study finds Centers the Safest Form of Child Care
Click here to view the findings.
Ellen Galinsky, President and Co-founder of Families and Work Institute, shares her tips for moms returning to the workforce.
The National Alert Registry (NAR) is distributing 5,000 free copies of the Emmy award-winning child-safety DVD Safe From Harm. There is a shipping and handling charge of $7..95 for the 23-minute video.. To view a two-minute clip of the DVD or to request a a copy, please visit the NAR sponsored Web site at www.safefromharmvideo.com.
The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) currently has several campaigns underway. Wipe out the Whoop is aimed at encouraging parents to vaccinate all family members against Whooping Cough. STOP Meningitis is a collaborative, public education initiative designed to provide helpful information to clinicians and other health care providers who care for pre-teens, adolescents and young adults and to encourage vaccination. See more on these and other intiatives at the NFID website.
Do you know what the New Meningococcal Vaccine Guidelines are? How about the latest news on ear infections? For up to the minute information on childrens healthcare, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website.
Food allergies in newborns and toddlers are increasing at an alarming rate. Between 1997 and 2002, the number of children under the age of 5 with peanut allergies has doubled. The Food Allergy Project is a coalition of parents, researchers, educators and experts dedicated to food allergy research. Learn more at www.foodallergyproject.org.
Children’s books and girls sandals are just two of the latest safety recalls. See the U.S. Product Safety Commissions recall list at http://www.cpsc.gov/.
Explore the science of learning through play in a new article at IParenting.
Do you use puppets as a teaching tool? Or would you like to learn how? Explore the world of puppets in teaching at puppetools.com and advance the language of play!
The number of twins in school has almost doubled in the past two decades. With multiples, difficult decisions may have to be made when it comes to education. Read about these issues at Apples4TheTeacher.com.
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