Wednesday, April 30, 2008
2007 Minnesota School Readiness Report...
The 2007 Minnesota School Readiness Study was released this month, showing that only about half of Minnesota children are fully ready for kindergarten ("proficient" in key domains). The study also found a decrease since 2006 in the number of children assessed as proficient in every domain of school readiness (Physical Development, Language and Literacy, Mathematical Thinking; Personal and Social Development; and The Arts).
The 2007 study again confirms that children enter kindergarten with arange of skills, knowledge, behaviors and accomplishments.
1. In all of the developmental domains assessed, a certain percentage of children entering kindergarten did not yet show the indicators of focus.
2. Household income is related to readiness level. The results by household income are consistent with national research showing the impact of poverty on children's school readiness and school success. Future studies will continue to examinethe degree of impact of parent education level on child outcomes.
3. The total percentage of students rated on average as "Not Yet"in each of the five developmental domains has remained consistent throughout the five years of the study.
4. Schools with a higher percentage of entering kindergarteners with disadvantaged backgrounds may tend to have fewer children fully prepared for kindergarten at the beginning of the school year.
5. Using performance-based assessments such as the Work Sampling System is appropriate when working with elementary school principals and kindergarten teachers to assess children's readiness as they enter kindergarten.
Of note also is the study's finding that children whose home language is English were nearly three times more likely to be proficient or in process for two key domains, Language and Literacy and Mathematical Thinking. On this issue, the Foundation for Child Development's recent brief Challenging Common Myths About English Language Learners provides research-based information for early childhood educators serving English language learners and specifically, Spanish-speaking English Language Learners.
The 2007 Minnesota School Readiness Study was released this month, showing that only about half of Minnesota children are fully ready for kindergarten ("proficient" in key domains). The study also found a decrease since 2006 in the number of children assessed as proficient in every domain of school readiness (Physical Development, Language and Literacy, Mathematical Thinking; Personal and Social Development; and The Arts).
The 2007 study again confirms that children enter kindergarten with arange of skills, knowledge, behaviors and accomplishments.
1. In all of the developmental domains assessed, a certain percentage of children entering kindergarten did not yet show the indicators of focus.
2. Household income is related to readiness level. The results by household income are consistent with national research showing the impact of poverty on children's school readiness and school success. Future studies will continue to examinethe degree of impact of parent education level on child outcomes.
3. The total percentage of students rated on average as "Not Yet"in each of the five developmental domains has remained consistent throughout the five years of the study.
4. Schools with a higher percentage of entering kindergarteners with disadvantaged backgrounds may tend to have fewer children fully prepared for kindergarten at the beginning of the school year.
5. Using performance-based assessments such as the Work Sampling System is appropriate when working with elementary school principals and kindergarten teachers to assess children's readiness as they enter kindergarten.
Of note also is the study's finding that children whose home language is English were nearly three times more likely to be proficient or in process for two key domains, Language and Literacy and Mathematical Thinking. On this issue, the Foundation for Child Development's recent brief Challenging Common Myths About English Language Learners provides research-based information for early childhood educators serving English language learners and specifically, Spanish-speaking English Language Learners.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Free Government Publications...
Sounds like one of those cheesy television ads... "Get free government publications!" But since, your taxes are paid, maybe its time to collect on some of the benefits of those taxes...
The government does offer a wealth of free publications that you can order online. There are an almost unlimited amounts of subjects, in fact, there are many that deal with children and child care.
Recently, in an effort to serve you better, the U.S. Department of Education's ED Pubs (Education Publications) web site underwent an extensive redesign. The web site combined bold colors, strong lines and a greater amount of “white space” to give it an eye-catching, modern look. The shopping process has been improved by adopting the latest in eCommerce "shopping carts," making it easier to order publications and provide concise, accurate shipping information. The capabilities of "your account" have been extended to realize a more user-friendly environment tailored to your preferences.
New features include:
1. News—this section highlights one or two "newsworthy" items, such as information about new pub releases, announcements by Secretary Spellings, etc. The items will have relevancy to publications and the ability to quickly find all publications related to a "news" item. Check back often because the information will be updated regularly.
2. Featured Items—this section highlights 3-6 publications that are orderable directly from the home page. Each item displays a thumbnail image and title. By clicking the title you can view the publication’s detailed information page. Featured items will be updated every 1-2 weeks.
3. Hot Topics—this section lists items in response to current events, key ED initiatives, and other timely information. By clicking on a hot topic the system will run a search and find all publications that relate to the topic.
4. Find Publications By—the links to audience, education level, language, publication type, and subject allow you to quickly find publications related to the groupings. For example, a principal could click on audience and then select "principals" to find all publications that are intended for him/her; a teacher searching for posters could click on publication type and then select "posters" from the list of terms.
5. Students/Parents/Teachers/Administrators—these menu items listed near the top of the page allow you to quickly find publications that are intended for you. In order to make the search results more manageable you can further refine your group by education level (e.g., elementary, middle, high, college/university, etc.) and subject (e.g., English, math, science, and social studies).
6. Español—this section links to publications that are written in Spanish and a Spanish version of the FAQs.
7. Breadcrumbs—this tool aids you in navigating the site. It is listed below the header and before the main content. You can click on any item in the breadcrumb trail and return to that page.
8. Zoom—this allows you to quickly view a larger publication cover image.
9. Quantity—the ability to add the desired number of copies from any page. The system will validate the quantity entered and let you know if the number is above the maximum that is allowed.
Please visit http://www.edpubs.ed.gov to see for yourself. If you have previously registered on the site, no need to re-register, your user name and password will work and your order history is still available! If you haven't registered, go ahead and give it a try.
Sounds like one of those cheesy television ads... "Get free government publications!" But since, your taxes are paid, maybe its time to collect on some of the benefits of those taxes...
The government does offer a wealth of free publications that you can order online. There are an almost unlimited amounts of subjects, in fact, there are many that deal with children and child care.
Recently, in an effort to serve you better, the U.S. Department of Education's ED Pubs (Education Publications) web site underwent an extensive redesign. The web site combined bold colors, strong lines and a greater amount of “white space” to give it an eye-catching, modern look. The shopping process has been improved by adopting the latest in eCommerce "shopping carts," making it easier to order publications and provide concise, accurate shipping information. The capabilities of "your account" have been extended to realize a more user-friendly environment tailored to your preferences.
New features include:
1. News—this section highlights one or two "newsworthy" items, such as information about new pub releases, announcements by Secretary Spellings, etc. The items will have relevancy to publications and the ability to quickly find all publications related to a "news" item. Check back often because the information will be updated regularly.
2. Featured Items—this section highlights 3-6 publications that are orderable directly from the home page. Each item displays a thumbnail image and title. By clicking the title you can view the publication’s detailed information page. Featured items will be updated every 1-2 weeks.
3. Hot Topics—this section lists items in response to current events, key ED initiatives, and other timely information. By clicking on a hot topic the system will run a search and find all publications that relate to the topic.
4. Find Publications By—the links to audience, education level, language, publication type, and subject allow you to quickly find publications related to the groupings. For example, a principal could click on audience and then select "principals" to find all publications that are intended for him/her; a teacher searching for posters could click on publication type and then select "posters" from the list of terms.
5. Students/Parents/Teachers/Administrators—these menu items listed near the top of the page allow you to quickly find publications that are intended for you. In order to make the search results more manageable you can further refine your group by education level (e.g., elementary, middle, high, college/university, etc.) and subject (e.g., English, math, science, and social studies).
6. Español—this section links to publications that are written in Spanish and a Spanish version of the FAQs.
7. Breadcrumbs—this tool aids you in navigating the site. It is listed below the header and before the main content. You can click on any item in the breadcrumb trail and return to that page.
8. Zoom—this allows you to quickly view a larger publication cover image.
9. Quantity—the ability to add the desired number of copies from any page. The system will validate the quantity entered and let you know if the number is above the maximum that is allowed.
Please visit http://www.edpubs.ed.gov to see for yourself. If you have previously registered on the site, no need to re-register, your user name and password will work and your order history is still available! If you haven't registered, go ahead and give it a try.
Monday, April 28, 2008
June is Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month...
Everyone Needs to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables...
A growing body of research proves that fruits and vegetables are critical to promoting good health. In fact, fruits and vegetables should be the foundation of a healthy diet. Most people need to double the amount of fruits and vegetables they eat every day.
Because they're low in calories and high in fiber, fruits and vegetables can help you control your weight. By eating more fruits and vegetables and fewer high-calorie foods, you'll find it much easier to control your weight.
Busy lives require food that's nutritious, energizing, and easy to eat on-the-go, like fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are a natural source of energy and give the body many nutrients you need to keep going.
So how do you get kids involved?
Here are the top ten ways to involve children:
10. Mean Green Cleaning Machine. Let them wash fruits and vegetables when preparing for cooking or eating.
9. Pick A Peck! When shopping, let them select a new fruit or vegetable to try … or several!
8. Make It Snappy! Let them snap the green beans, snap peas, or break the flowerets from the broccoli or cauliflower.
7. I Spy. Play “I Spy” in the Produce section when grocery shopping.
6. Tear It Up! Let them tear the lettuce for salads and sandwiches.
5. Measure Up! Let them measure the frozen vegetables before cooking them.
4. Peel & Slice. Older children can peel and slice carrots, cucumbers, potatoes … the list goes on!
3. Stir & Spice. Make applesauce from fresh apples. Let them help stir and add the cinnamon.
2. A Sprinkle A Day… Let them sprinkle herbs or other seasonings onto vegetables.
1. Monster Mash! Pull out the potato masher!
Here are some "kid friendly" resources:
Everyone Needs to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables...
A growing body of research proves that fruits and vegetables are critical to promoting good health. In fact, fruits and vegetables should be the foundation of a healthy diet. Most people need to double the amount of fruits and vegetables they eat every day.
Because they're low in calories and high in fiber, fruits and vegetables can help you control your weight. By eating more fruits and vegetables and fewer high-calorie foods, you'll find it much easier to control your weight.
Busy lives require food that's nutritious, energizing, and easy to eat on-the-go, like fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are a natural source of energy and give the body many nutrients you need to keep going.
So how do you get kids involved?
Here are the top ten ways to involve children:
10. Mean Green Cleaning Machine. Let them wash fruits and vegetables when preparing for cooking or eating.
9. Pick A Peck! When shopping, let them select a new fruit or vegetable to try … or several!
8. Make It Snappy! Let them snap the green beans, snap peas, or break the flowerets from the broccoli or cauliflower.
7. I Spy. Play “I Spy” in the Produce section when grocery shopping.
6. Tear It Up! Let them tear the lettuce for salads and sandwiches.
5. Measure Up! Let them measure the frozen vegetables before cooking them.
4. Peel & Slice. Older children can peel and slice carrots, cucumbers, potatoes … the list goes on!
3. Stir & Spice. Make applesauce from fresh apples. Let them help stir and add the cinnamon.
2. A Sprinkle A Day… Let them sprinkle herbs or other seasonings onto vegetables.
1. Monster Mash! Pull out the potato masher!
Here are some "kid friendly" resources:
- Fruits and Veggies More Matters has some great tip for cooking with children and some wonderful receipes to try.
- Food Champs has some fun information and coloring activities for children.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Provider Appreciation Day...
Provider Appreciation Day is a special day to recognize child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children everywhere. Provider Appreciation Day is appropriately celebrated each year to recognize the tireless efforts of providers who care for children of working parents.
Friday, May 9th, 2008 is National Provider Appreciation Day.
Provider Appreciation Day is a special day to recognize child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children everywhere. Provider Appreciation Day is appropriately celebrated each year to recognize the tireless efforts of providers who care for children of working parents.Provider Appreciation Day is a special day to recognize child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children everywhere. Started in 1996 by a group of volunteers in New Jersey, Provider Appreciation Day is appropriately celebrated each year on the Friday before Mother's Day. The founding organizers saw the need to recognize the tireless efforts of providers who care for children of working parents. Momentum and support for this event has grown each year and recognition presently includes individuals and government organizations throughout North America, Europe and Asia. A national study, The National Economic Impacts of the Child Care Sector, sponsored by the National Child Care Association, found that there are at least 2.8 million people who earn their money by teaching and caring for young children or by working in directly related jobs. As the demand for child care continues to increase, who's minding the kids is crucial.
Today's child care professionals are the world's unsung heroes. This profession is one of the most underpaid occupations in the country; yet research shows that early childhood is the most critical developmental period in a child's life. It takes a special person to work in this field and the contribution these individuals make to the quality of children's and families' lives too frequently goes unnoticed. Provider Appreciation Day offers a unique opportunity to recognize and commend the unselfish dedication, commitment and compassion that child care providers demonstrate every day.
Provider Appreciation Day needs your support to continue to be successful. Individuals and community leaders can network with child care groups to plan events, schedule media coverage and issue proclamations. Begin now to contact parents, community groups, child care agencies, government leaders and others so that everyone who wants to support child care providers has the opportunity to participate in this important recognition event in your community. Even the smallest of efforts mean so much to those who have your children in their care. Your provider's smile will be your reward.
A national study, The National Economic Impacts of the Child Care Sector, sponsored by the National Child Care Association, found that there are at least 2.8 million people who earn their money by teaching and caring for young children or by working in directly related jobs. As the demand for child care continues to increase, who's minding the kids is crucial. For more information go to http://www.providerappreciation.org/.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
May 6th is National Teacher Day...
National Teacher Day is Tuesday, May 6, 2008. On National Teacher Day, thousands of communities will take time out to honor their local educators and acknowledge the contributions they make to our lives. Our Teacher Day annual theme has been replaced with a standing tagline, "Great Teachers Make Great Public Schools," and draws attention to the crucial role teachers play in making sure every child receives a quality public education and conveys the hard work they do each day to make public schools great for every child.
The 2008 National Teacher Day poster is available for download! This year's poster design encourages everyone to "Thank a Teacher" and contribute to the Nation's Largest Teacher Thank You Card project. Together with the Parent Teacher Association, NEA is collecting thousands of teacher thank you cards and fusing them into a larger than life teacher thank you mural. For more information, visit www.teacherthankyoucard.org .
Wondering how to thank a teacher? Last year, NEA conducted an online poll asking teachers what kind of gift would most make them feel appreciated. The answer? A simple "thank you," according to nearly half (48%) of all poll respondents. Be sure to visit www.teacherthankyoucard.org to find out more about how you can say "thanks" to your teacher.
The origins of National Teacher Day are murky. Around 1944 Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodbridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day.
NEA, along with its Kansas and Indiana state affiliates and the Dodge City (Kan.) Local, lobbied Congress to create a national day celebrating teachers. Congress declared March 7, 1980, as National Teacher Day for that year only. NEA and its affiliates continued to observe National Teacher Day on the first Tuesday in March until 1985, when the National PTA established Teacher Appreciation Week as the first full week of May. The NEA Representative Assembly then voted to make the Tuesday of that week National Teacher Day.
Celebrated on the Tuesday of the first full week of May, the actual date varies each year. In 2008, National Teacher Day takes place May 6. For more information about the weeklong celebration, visit the PTA's Web site.
Make sure to thank your special teachers on May 6th!
National Teacher Day is Tuesday, May 6, 2008. On National Teacher Day, thousands of communities will take time out to honor their local educators and acknowledge the contributions they make to our lives. Our Teacher Day annual theme has been replaced with a standing tagline, "Great Teachers Make Great Public Schools," and draws attention to the crucial role teachers play in making sure every child receives a quality public education and conveys the hard work they do each day to make public schools great for every child.
The 2008 National Teacher Day poster is available for download! This year's poster design encourages everyone to "Thank a Teacher" and contribute to the Nation's Largest Teacher Thank You Card project. Together with the Parent Teacher Association, NEA is collecting thousands of teacher thank you cards and fusing them into a larger than life teacher thank you mural. For more information, visit www.teacherthankyoucard.org .
Wondering how to thank a teacher? Last year, NEA conducted an online poll asking teachers what kind of gift would most make them feel appreciated. The answer? A simple "thank you," according to nearly half (48%) of all poll respondents. Be sure to visit www.teacherthankyoucard.org to find out more about how you can say "thanks" to your teacher.
The origins of National Teacher Day are murky. Around 1944 Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodbridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day.
NEA, along with its Kansas and Indiana state affiliates and the Dodge City (Kan.) Local, lobbied Congress to create a national day celebrating teachers. Congress declared March 7, 1980, as National Teacher Day for that year only. NEA and its affiliates continued to observe National Teacher Day on the first Tuesday in March until 1985, when the National PTA established Teacher Appreciation Week as the first full week of May. The NEA Representative Assembly then voted to make the Tuesday of that week National Teacher Day.
Celebrated on the Tuesday of the first full week of May, the actual date varies each year. In 2008, National Teacher Day takes place May 6. For more information about the weeklong celebration, visit the PTA's Web site.
Make sure to thank your special teachers on May 6th!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Starting a Child Care Business...
I love my child care business and can't imagine doing anything else... but those of us who have been in the industry for a while know that it is not all "peaches and cream" to running your own child care business. This article does a good job of spellign out some of the considerations that must be made before you start your venture...
Read the rest of the article and let me know your opinions. Do you agree or disagree with the author's observations and opinions?
I love my child care business and can't imagine doing anything else... but those of us who have been in the industry for a while know that it is not all "peaches and cream" to running your own child care business. This article does a good job of spellign out some of the considerations that must be made before you start your venture...
Starting A Home DayCare – How Will Your Home Be Affected?
A very large number of Americans are now starting a home daycare. This becomes a very lucrative business from home for them, and at the same time they save a lot by way of overheads, commuting expenses and the like. This option is indeed quite viable, because you can also write off some of your living expenses because whatever portion of the home you use for the daycare business earns a tax-deductible status on its expenses. Everything just seems too rosy here, but then there's a significant tradeoff to consider. When you start a daycare in your home, there are certainly going to be some drastic changes in the home.
There is a ridiculously low amount of material on the Internet about this. You will find millions of articles about the pluses of starting a home daycare, but no one speaks of the cons. Anyways, I would like to apprise you of them...
Read the rest of the article and let me know your opinions. Do you agree or disagree with the author's observations and opinions?
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Week of the Family Child Care Provider 2008...
A press release from the Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care Association:
Governor Pawlenty Proclaims Family Child Care Provider Week
The state of Minnesota honors the individuals who care for our children
April 16, 2008-At the request of the Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care Association (MLFCCA), Governor Pawlenty has proclaimed May 4-10, 2008 Family Child Care Provider Week. There are over 138,000 children cared for in Minnesota’s licensed family homes by 12,000 child care professionals. These family child care professionals provide this critical service while striving to maintain the highest level of care for our state’s children. The Governor explained the importance of this workforce, “Valuable care and education is provided to our children by licensed family child care providers.”
This year’s celebration kicking off the week will be held in the Brainerd Lakes area at Cragun’s Resort May 2-4 with an event honoring leaders in the child care field from across Minnesota. Educational sessions will be offered to providers and speakers will rally the crowd.
The Saturday evening banquet honors over 40 child care providers selected by their local communities as their county’s “Child Care Provider of the Year.” They are the tireless professionals who care for our state’s children day after day as we work, go to school and keep Minnesota moving. “Our world as we know it stops when our child care provider quits,” explains Katy Chase, Executive Director of MLFCCA. “All of us have been touched by the people who take care of our children. This is because the family child care provider is the heart and soul of our functioning society and they provide our children a safe, caring and educational environment in which to spend their days.”
Child care providers and leaders in the field are available for interview. To interview MLFCCA leadership on your locally honored child care providers, please contact Katy Chase.
About MLFCCA:
For 21 years MLFCCA has honored and trained family child care providers across the state by celebrating the Week of the Family Child Care Provider and hosting the Week of the Family Child Care Provider Conference.
MLFCCA is a member of the Umbrella Strategic Alliance (USA), which consists of the Minnesota Association of the Education of Young Children (MnAEYC), the Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care Association (MLFCCA), the Alliance of Early Childhood Professionals (AECP) and the Minnesota School Age Care Alliance (MnSACA). These four companies are all community organizations with complementary missions revolving around care and education of young and school-aged children, and ensuring that professional development opportunities exist for caregivers of these children.
Learn more about the conference or register at the MLFCCA website.
Download the official proclamation.
A press release from the Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care Association:
Governor Pawlenty Proclaims Family Child Care Provider Week
The state of Minnesota honors the individuals who care for our children
April 16, 2008-At the request of the Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care Association (MLFCCA), Governor Pawlenty has proclaimed May 4-10, 2008 Family Child Care Provider Week. There are over 138,000 children cared for in Minnesota’s licensed family homes by 12,000 child care professionals. These family child care professionals provide this critical service while striving to maintain the highest level of care for our state’s children. The Governor explained the importance of this workforce, “Valuable care and education is provided to our children by licensed family child care providers.”
This year’s celebration kicking off the week will be held in the Brainerd Lakes area at Cragun’s Resort May 2-4 with an event honoring leaders in the child care field from across Minnesota. Educational sessions will be offered to providers and speakers will rally the crowd.
The Saturday evening banquet honors over 40 child care providers selected by their local communities as their county’s “Child Care Provider of the Year.” They are the tireless professionals who care for our state’s children day after day as we work, go to school and keep Minnesota moving. “Our world as we know it stops when our child care provider quits,” explains Katy Chase, Executive Director of MLFCCA. “All of us have been touched by the people who take care of our children. This is because the family child care provider is the heart and soul of our functioning society and they provide our children a safe, caring and educational environment in which to spend their days.”
Child care providers and leaders in the field are available for interview. To interview MLFCCA leadership on your locally honored child care providers, please contact Katy Chase.
About MLFCCA:
For 21 years MLFCCA has honored and trained family child care providers across the state by celebrating the Week of the Family Child Care Provider and hosting the Week of the Family Child Care Provider Conference.
MLFCCA is a member of the Umbrella Strategic Alliance (USA), which consists of the Minnesota Association of the Education of Young Children (MnAEYC), the Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care Association (MLFCCA), the Alliance of Early Childhood Professionals (AECP) and the Minnesota School Age Care Alliance (MnSACA). These four companies are all community organizations with complementary missions revolving around care and education of young and school-aged children, and ensuring that professional development opportunities exist for caregivers of these children.
Learn more about the conference or register at the MLFCCA website.
Download the official proclamation.
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Lorax...
What is the Lorax, you ask. Well, then you just are not a dedicated Suess fan. The Lorax is Dr. Seuss's timeless tale of the environment and its conservation. Here is another resource you will want... You can get The Lorax (Online Animated Digital Book)free for Your Classroom!
Celebrate Earth Day tomorrow (April 22nd) with The Lorax, available for the first time ever in a read-along animated digital format. This special edition of Dr. Seuss's cautionary tale will be available for free exclusively on kidthing®. The pages come to life on your computer screen with animation, narration, and sound effects. Or, turn the sound off and read the book aloud. Kidthing runs on Windows XP and Vista (Mac version coming soon). Download at www.kidthing.com/thelorax.
This online book is available through April 30th. Note: You will need to download a special player (the kidthing player) but it is relatively easy and the player is pretty neat and even includes some games and a Horton coloring book. You will also need to follow the instructions on going through a purchase process to "purchase" your free book, but again it is pretty impressive and the kids love it. Of course this is to introduce you to the new media and there are other books to buy and download, but this may be something to keep an eye on.
There are also a lot of games, activities, and information about what you can do at The Lorax Project. The Lorax Project was launched to engage individuals of all ages to do their part to conserve places and species that are critical to the future of our planet. They hope to raise awareness and inspire earth-friendly action worldwide.
Go ahead and become a Lorax fan today!
What is the Lorax, you ask. Well, then you just are not a dedicated Suess fan. The Lorax is Dr. Seuss's timeless tale of the environment and its conservation. Here is another resource you will want... You can get The Lorax (Online Animated Digital Book)free for Your Classroom!
Celebrate Earth Day tomorrow (April 22nd) with The Lorax, available for the first time ever in a read-along animated digital format. This special edition of Dr. Seuss's cautionary tale will be available for free exclusively on kidthing®. The pages come to life on your computer screen with animation, narration, and sound effects. Or, turn the sound off and read the book aloud. Kidthing runs on Windows XP and Vista (Mac version coming soon). Download at www.kidthing.com/thelorax.
This online book is available through April 30th. Note: You will need to download a special player (the kidthing player) but it is relatively easy and the player is pretty neat and even includes some games and a Horton coloring book. You will also need to follow the instructions on going through a purchase process to "purchase" your free book, but again it is pretty impressive and the kids love it. Of course this is to introduce you to the new media and there are other books to buy and download, but this may be something to keep an eye on.
There are also a lot of games, activities, and information about what you can do at The Lorax Project. The Lorax Project was launched to engage individuals of all ages to do their part to conserve places and species that are critical to the future of our planet. They hope to raise awareness and inspire earth-friendly action worldwide.
Go ahead and become a Lorax fan today!
Friday, April 18, 2008
More Cuts To Child Care Funding...
Child Care Works wants you to know that a $9 million dollar child care cut has been proposed in Minnesota...
The Senate proposes to transfer $9 million out of the Basic Sliding Fee child care appropriation to help solve the state's budget deficit. These funds are allocations not yet spent by counties for Basic Sliding Fee child care. Each year, these unspent funds are redistributed to counties with families on the waiting lists.
Basic Sliding Fee child care helps working families access affordable quality early care and education. This $9 million would provide child care to approximately 900 families. There are currently about 3,700 families in Minnesota on the waiting list.
What Can You Do?
Please contact the chairs of the conference committee a.s.a.p.:
· Rep. Lyndon Carlson (Crystal) at 651-296-4255
· Sen. Dick Cohen (St Paul) at 651-296-5931
Give the message:
We ask for your support of the House position which proposes no cuts to Basic Sliding Fee child care – and leaves the funding in the program to support the families that qualify for the program and have been on the waiting list.
Background...
Early this session members of both the House and Senate said that they would spare early childhood from cuts in this year’s supplemental budget bill. The House has lived up to its promise and has left early childhood alone. On the Senate side, education spending for early childhood has also been spared and the Senate has even included as small increase of $936, 000 for early childhood screening. However, once again, child care is subject to cuts. This may be a sign of a bigger problem: that legislators still don’t see child care as early education.
While the legislature faces the difficult task of addressing the nearly $1 billion deficit, cutting child care at this time is a missed opportunity for helping families who may be experiencing financial strain.
Smaller cuts are slated for child care development grants (grants to programs designed to improve the quality of early care and education settings) as well as cuts to Pre-K Allowances (provides $4,000 allowances to low-income families for high quality early care and education services).
If you are able to make additional calls, please contact the other members of the Conference Committee:
Child Care Works wants you to know that a $9 million dollar child care cut has been proposed in Minnesota...
The Senate proposes to transfer $9 million out of the Basic Sliding Fee child care appropriation to help solve the state's budget deficit. These funds are allocations not yet spent by counties for Basic Sliding Fee child care. Each year, these unspent funds are redistributed to counties with families on the waiting lists.
Basic Sliding Fee child care helps working families access affordable quality early care and education. This $9 million would provide child care to approximately 900 families. There are currently about 3,700 families in Minnesota on the waiting list.
What Can You Do?
Please contact the chairs of the conference committee a.s.a.p.:
· Rep. Lyndon Carlson (Crystal) at 651-296-4255
· Sen. Dick Cohen (St Paul) at 651-296-5931
Give the message:
We ask for your support of the House position which proposes no cuts to Basic Sliding Fee child care – and leaves the funding in the program to support the families that qualify for the program and have been on the waiting list.
Background...
Early this session members of both the House and Senate said that they would spare early childhood from cuts in this year’s supplemental budget bill. The House has lived up to its promise and has left early childhood alone. On the Senate side, education spending for early childhood has also been spared and the Senate has even included as small increase of $936, 000 for early childhood screening. However, once again, child care is subject to cuts. This may be a sign of a bigger problem: that legislators still don’t see child care as early education.
While the legislature faces the difficult task of addressing the nearly $1 billion deficit, cutting child care at this time is a missed opportunity for helping families who may be experiencing financial strain.
Smaller cuts are slated for child care development grants (grants to programs designed to improve the quality of early care and education settings) as well as cuts to Pre-K Allowances (provides $4,000 allowances to low-income families for high quality early care and education services).
If you are able to make additional calls, please contact the other members of the Conference Committee:
- Rep. Mary Murphy (Hermantown) 651-296-2676/ 800-890-5428
- Rep. Jean Wagenius (Minneapolis) 651-296-4200
- Rep. Tom Rukavina (Virginia) 651-296-0170/ 888-682-3205
- Rep. Dennis Ozment (Rosemount) 651-296-4306
- Sen. Don Betzold (Fridley) 651-296-2556
- Sen. Linda Higgins (Minneapolis) 651-296-9246
- Sen. David Tomassoni (Chisolm) 651-296-8017
- Sen. Dennis Fredrickson (New Ulm) 651-296-8138
Don't let our government make child care unobtainable for even more families!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
April is National Garden Month...
It may be hard to believe since the snow is just now leaing in parts of Minnesota, but April is National Garden Month. Every April communities, organizations, and individuals nationwide celebrate gardening during National Garden Month. Gardeners know, and research confirms, that nurturing plants is good for us: attitudes toward health and nutrition improve, kids perform better at school, and community spirit grows. Join the celebration and help to make America a greener, healthier, more livable place!
There is some great gardening information at the National Gardening Association website, including 101 ways to celebrate National Garden Month.
You still have a chance to win the When You Garden, You GROW Giveaway...
Enter to win one of three prize packages chock full of gardening goodies — each package has a retail value of $1,000 and includes an assortment of tools from Ames True Temper, product from The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, and a gift certificate to NGA's Garden Shop. Check off what type of gardening you do: home, community, or school, and fill in the rest of the fields. But hurry, entries must be in by April 30th.
For children, Kids Gardening has activities, information, projects, and more. The site also has an online store with a great selection on gardening projects and kits.
Check out this site for some more information about how to get started gardening with kids and celebrate National Garden Month.
It may be hard to believe since the snow is just now leaing in parts of Minnesota, but April is National Garden Month. Every April communities, organizations, and individuals nationwide celebrate gardening during National Garden Month. Gardeners know, and research confirms, that nurturing plants is good for us: attitudes toward health and nutrition improve, kids perform better at school, and community spirit grows. Join the celebration and help to make America a greener, healthier, more livable place!
There is some great gardening information at the National Gardening Association website, including 101 ways to celebrate National Garden Month.
You still have a chance to win the When You Garden, You GROW Giveaway...
Enter to win one of three prize packages chock full of gardening goodies — each package has a retail value of $1,000 and includes an assortment of tools from Ames True Temper, product from The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, and a gift certificate to NGA's Garden Shop. Check off what type of gardening you do: home, community, or school, and fill in the rest of the fields. But hurry, entries must be in by April 30th.
For children, Kids Gardening has activities, information, projects, and more. The site also has an online store with a great selection on gardening projects and kits.
Check out this site for some more information about how to get started gardening with kids and celebrate National Garden Month.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Response to Intervention - RTI Action Network...
Here is a resource that may be of value to you. The National Center for Learning Disabilities has launched its Response to Intervention (RTI) initiative, the RTI Action Network, at the Web site, RTINetwork.org.
What is RTI?
Response to Intervention (RTI) is a multi-tiered approach to help struggling learners. Students' progress is closely monitored at each stage of intervention to determine the need for further research-based instruction and/or intervention in general education, in special education, or both.
This new site will feature content on implementing RTI from preschool to secondary; information for administrators, teachers, specialists, and families; unprecedented access to the nation’s top researchers and experienced implementers; and numerous networking opportunities to talk to colleagues nationwide.
Though it may be a bit intimidating at first, there is a wealth of information at this site. Explore a wide range of resources including Blogs, Voices from the Field, RTI Talks, and Ask the Experts features. Register to receive our e-newsletter, the RTI Action Update, and to connect with experts and colleagues nationwide through our RTI Discussion Boards. Be sure to visit RTINetwork.org and don't forget to sign up for the RTI Action Network's online newsletter, RTI Action Update, today!
Here is a resource that may be of value to you. The National Center for Learning Disabilities has launched its Response to Intervention (RTI) initiative, the RTI Action Network, at the Web site, RTINetwork.org.
What is RTI?
Response to Intervention (RTI) is a multi-tiered approach to help struggling learners. Students' progress is closely monitored at each stage of intervention to determine the need for further research-based instruction and/or intervention in general education, in special education, or both.
This new site will feature content on implementing RTI from preschool to secondary; information for administrators, teachers, specialists, and families; unprecedented access to the nation’s top researchers and experienced implementers; and numerous networking opportunities to talk to colleagues nationwide.
Though it may be a bit intimidating at first, there is a wealth of information at this site. Explore a wide range of resources including Blogs, Voices from the Field, RTI Talks, and Ask the Experts features. Register to receive our e-newsletter, the RTI Action Update, and to connect with experts and colleagues nationwide through our RTI Discussion Boards. Be sure to visit RTINetwork.org and don't forget to sign up for the RTI Action Network's online newsletter, RTI Action Update, today!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
This Week is National Library Week...
National Library Week will be observed April 13-19, 2008 with the theme, "Join the circle of knowledge @ your library®."
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. All types of libraries - school, public, academic and special - participate.
Many school libraries also celebrate the month of April as School Library Media Month sponsored by the American Association of School Librarians, a division of ALA, with the same theme as National Library Week. National Library Workers Day, celebrated the Tuesday of National Library Week (April 15, 2008), is a day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.
If you are close to a library, one of the greatest gifts that you can give children is a library card. For many years, I have gotten cards for each of the children in may care (with the parents' permission of course". It is often fun to take a short "field trip" to the library to read some books. Take this opportunity to celebrate libraries and the foster a lifelong love of books...
National Library Week will be observed April 13-19, 2008 with the theme, "Join the circle of knowledge @ your library®."
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. All types of libraries - school, public, academic and special - participate.
Many school libraries also celebrate the month of April as School Library Media Month sponsored by the American Association of School Librarians, a division of ALA, with the same theme as National Library Week. National Library Workers Day, celebrated the Tuesday of National Library Week (April 15, 2008), is a day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.
If you are close to a library, one of the greatest gifts that you can give children is a library card. For many years, I have gotten cards for each of the children in may care (with the parents' permission of course". It is often fun to take a short "field trip" to the library to read some books. Take this opportunity to celebrate libraries and the foster a lifelong love of books...
Monday, April 14, 2008
Math and Early Childhood...
As a child care provider, you have probably heard how math should be included in your curriculum. However, this often brings images of teaching infants to count, add, and subtract. Luckily this is not the concept of math we are talking about. The following article does a great job of explaining the concept of math and early childhood education...
As a child care provider, you have probably heard how math should be included in your curriculum. However, this often brings images of teaching infants to count, add, and subtract. Luckily this is not the concept of math we are talking about. The following article does a great job of explaining the concept of math and early childhood education...
Math Right From the Start: What Parents Can Do in the First Five Years
By Jan Greenberg, Senior Product Development Associate,
Adapted from Math Right From the Start, 3/27/2008What do you think of when you hear the word math? Numbers and counting? Adding and subtracting? Something you are good at--or not good at?
Many people think that math is counting and recognizing numbers, but mathematics is much more! It is a way to see how things are the same and different. It is a way to organize information. It is a way to understand quantity (how much), numbers, patterns, space, and shapes. Mathematics provides us with a sense of order, a way to predict outcomes, compare things, and solve problems. Mathematics is everywhere, and it is already a part of every child's world. In fact, research shows that young children are born with an informal understanding of math.
You can see children using math to make sense of the world. Babies learn the difference between adults they know and adults they don't know. A 1-year-old asks for more crackers and cries when someone takes one away. A 2-year-old holds up two fingers to represent his age. A 3-year-old shows her understanding of shapes and space when she turns and stacks blocks to make a tower. A 4-year-old picks out patterns in the bathroom floor tiles. And a 5-year-old loves to tell how tall she is and how she keeps getting taller!
Math is a big part of our lives. When we sort laundry and match socks, we're using math. When we set the table for a meal and make sure each person has the proper utensils, we're using math. When we keep score or time at a basketball or football game, we're using math. And when we use maps to get from one place to another or give a friend directions, we're also using math!
So what should we tell families when they ask how they can help their children learn math skills and concepts?
Let families know that their children use math when they play and when they help do things like put toys away and cook. There are many chances for "math talk" and "math play" with children throughout the day. Families don't need to buy special games or toys. Family members don't even have to be experts to support math learning.
Below are simple strategies for families to try to encourage math learning.
Talk with your child!
Listen to what your child says to you. Use math words to describe what you see, hear, and do and what your child sees, hears, and does. Help her find ways to express her ideas with math words, pictures, and symbols. The more "math talk" your child hears, the better she will be at using math language.Solve problems together!
Help your child learn that there are many ways to solve a problem and that a problem can have more than one answer. It is important young children learn how to come to an answer, not just to get the right one. Over time and with practice, your child can become a great problem solver!Ask WHY questions!
Ask your child questions, such as why she put all the little trucks in one box or paired the blue sock with the white one. Listen to her responses. Share your ideas. Give your child lots of chances to explain why she thinks as she does or why she makes a choice between one guess and another. Don't worry if the reasons don't make sense. Children don't always know how they get their answers, but that's okay. It's the thinking process that counts.Draw and write about math!
Help your child share his ideas about math by using drawings and objects such as blocks, counters, and fingers. Ask questions and make comments and suggestions, such as, "Can you make a drawing...?", "Can you use blocks...?", "Show me what you mean ...", and "Tell me more about how....". Remember that children also love to copy what adults do. Show your child how you use tally marks and maps. Share ads that show how much something costs.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Did You Know...
If April showers bring May flowers... what do April blizzards bring?
Wow! We got a gift of about 7 inches of snow last night and more predicted for today. All the schools in the area are closed today. Not too unusual in Minnesota... except that we are nearly in the middle of April. Oh well, summer will be here soon...
Some interesting child care facts to share with you today...
If April showers bring May flowers... what do April blizzards bring?
Wow! We got a gift of about 7 inches of snow last night and more predicted for today. All the schools in the area are closed today. Not too unusual in Minnesota... except that we are nearly in the middle of April. Oh well, summer will be here soon...
Some interesting child care facts to share with you today...
FACT – Minnesota Parents Work:
- Nearly three-quarters of Minnesota mothers of young children work – among the highest percentage in the nation.
- This translates to more than 670,000 children statewide needing some kind of non-parental care.
- Nearly 7 in 10 Minnesota children under six had their parents in the labor force in 2000.
FACT – Many Working Parents Cannot Afford Child Care
- The average cost of 4 years of child care is over $30,000 – more than 4 years of tuition at the University of Minnesota.
- Minnesota’s traditionally excellent Child Care Assistance Program, which helps low-income working families afford child care, came under attack in the 2003 legislative session, cutting over 50% of the state’s funds for child care assistance, lowered income eligibility, and increased parents’ co-payments. There have been steps toward restoring some of those deep cuts in recent legislative sessions, but more work needs to be done.
I would just like to note that affordable child care is important, but quality child care is just as important. Let's make sure we don't sacrifice one for the other...
Thursday, April 10, 2008
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month...
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to support children and families. Learn more about the history of the month, see examples of Presidential and State proclamations, and find strategies for engaging communities and supporting families.
A study released in January by Prevent Child Abuse America calculates that an investment in the prevention of child abuse and neglect can save the nation over $100 Billion per year. The study, entitled Total Estimated Cost of Child Abuse and Neglect in the United States can be found by clicking here.
This brief document clearly shows the long-term adverse experiences and economic effects of child abuse and neglect on children, their families and society as a whole. Direct costs associated with child abuse and neglect including foster care services, hospitalization, mental health treatment, and law enforcement total more than $33 billion. Indirect costs of over $70 billion include loss of productivity as well as expenditures related to chronic health problems, special education, and the criminal justice system. Providing these services is of vital importance; it does beg the question, "Why aren't we focused on preventing abuse and neglect before it occurs, rather than responding after the fact?"
$104 billion is not small change, especially in our current economic environment. It is the kind of money that should encourage every American to take pause, every politician to take a stand and everyone who cares about children to change the way we, as a country, think about prevention.
Attention to preventing child abuse and neglect from occurring in the first place makes good common sense and it makes 'cents' for our children, our country and our economy.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to support children and families. Learn more about the history of the month, see examples of Presidential and State proclamations, and find strategies for engaging communities and supporting families.
- History of Prevention Month
- Proclamations and press releases
- Get involved
- 2008 Resource Packet and related materials
- Archived community resource packets
A study released in January by Prevent Child Abuse America calculates that an investment in the prevention of child abuse and neglect can save the nation over $100 Billion per year. The study, entitled Total Estimated Cost of Child Abuse and Neglect in the United States can be found by clicking here.
This brief document clearly shows the long-term adverse experiences and economic effects of child abuse and neglect on children, their families and society as a whole. Direct costs associated with child abuse and neglect including foster care services, hospitalization, mental health treatment, and law enforcement total more than $33 billion. Indirect costs of over $70 billion include loss of productivity as well as expenditures related to chronic health problems, special education, and the criminal justice system. Providing these services is of vital importance; it does beg the question, "Why aren't we focused on preventing abuse and neglect before it occurs, rather than responding after the fact?"
$104 billion is not small change, especially in our current economic environment. It is the kind of money that should encourage every American to take pause, every politician to take a stand and everyone who cares about children to change the way we, as a country, think about prevention.
Attention to preventing child abuse and neglect from occurring in the first place makes good common sense and it makes 'cents' for our children, our country and our economy.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Rural Child Care...
The following article was published in Oregon, but the points that are raised concerning rural child care could just as easily be Minnesota...
The following article was published in Oregon, but the points that are raised concerning rural child care could just as easily be Minnesota...
Child care solutions are intensely local
Small towns and rural areas have advantages and disadvantagesWhen it comes to making compromises, none is more uncomfortable than one that affects our children's well-being and prospects. As our series on child care makes clear, parents here face tough choices when it comes to finding child care.
It seems that every month brings fresh news of the vital importance of children's early years in setting a path for success and health in later life. With economic conditions that increasingly make it absolutely necessary for both parents to be employed - and with many children living with only one parent - finding child care isn't optional.Search national news sources and you will find hundreds of current stories about child care and the difficulties surrounding it. Some clear themes emerge:
• Many entrepreneurs have stepped up to help bridge the child-care availability gaps in communities throughout the nation. This is also true here. But they face numerous challenges in terms of state and local licensing, attracting and retaining high-quality employees, finding affordable insurance and other issues. All these factors contribute to how much these facilities must charge per child in order to make a decent income.
• Small towns and rural areas have both advantages and disadvantages compared to cities when it comes to child care. On the one hand, opening home-based child-care facilities provides a somewhat attractive employment option, particularly for rural women with children of their own. The closeness of small-town life means it is possible for parents to keep tabs on their kids and the care they are receiving. But as with so many other necessities and amenities, rural areas frequently have fewer options. If you don't like the child-care choice in your town, the next option may be 15 miles away.
• Lack of infant care is a nationwide issue. Children from birth until they are out of diapers are, as every parent knows, considerably more labor-intensive than older kids. This is reflected in a severe shortage of facilities specializing in this age group. The useful http://www.childcarelounge.com/ Web site notes that recommended ratios for adults to children are: infants-1:3, toddlers-1:5, preschool-1:8, school age-1:12.
• At too many existing child-care facilities, nutritious meal and snack choices are limited. Providers tend to supply foods that children eat with the least fuss, and in many cases this means an over-reliance on processed products loaded with oils and sugars.
• Similarly, facilities may rely on TV as a primary form of entertainment to a greater extent than parents prefer. In its section on choosing a quality day care program, www.childcarelounge.com suggests some helpful criteria, including "Do the activities promote growth in different areas of development including, physical growth, social skills, emotional growth, verbal skills, cognitive ability and creativity?" and "Is the physical environment a bright, colorful and inviting place?"
The U.S. has left the availability of child care and associated issues up to the marketplace. But for many of the reasons sketched out above - licensing, personnel shortages, insurance, affordability for parents who have the kinds of jobs our economy creates - more government financial aid and public-private partnerships are clearly needed.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
A Message From Children's Defense Fund...
Are you an American Idol fan? If so, CDF wants to remind you to watch American Idol: Idol Gives Back tomorrow - Wednesday, April 9 (6:30-9:00 PM Central Time) on FOX Television. . CDF is honored to be chosen as an official 2008 beneficiary of Idol Gives Back, a television event and music celebration, which will raise awareness and funds for domestic and international organizations that help children and young people, especially those living in poverty in America and Africa.
CDF is proud to have Academy Award®-winning actress and CDF board member Reese Witherspoon highlight CDF's work for children on Idol Gives Back and show the millions of American Idol viewers that every step we take to improve the lives of children improves the lives of all of us.
Every step we take to improve the lives of children improves the lives of all of us. As CDF turns 35 this year, we could not ask for a better birthday gift!
Find out more about this exciting event at http://www.childrensdefense.org.
Are you an American Idol fan? If so, CDF wants to remind you to watch American Idol: Idol Gives Back tomorrow - Wednesday, April 9 (6:30-9:00 PM Central Time) on FOX Television. . CDF is honored to be chosen as an official 2008 beneficiary of Idol Gives Back, a television event and music celebration, which will raise awareness and funds for domestic and international organizations that help children and young people, especially those living in poverty in America and Africa.
CDF is proud to have Academy Award®-winning actress and CDF board member Reese Witherspoon highlight CDF's work for children on Idol Gives Back and show the millions of American Idol viewers that every step we take to improve the lives of children improves the lives of all of us.
Every step we take to improve the lives of children improves the lives of all of us. As CDF turns 35 this year, we could not ask for a better birthday gift!
Find out more about this exciting event at http://www.childrensdefense.org.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Week of the Young Child...
Well, I'm back. Hope that you missed me a little. The past week has been extremely hectic around the Wachter household. The weekend before last we were at the Minnesota Boys State Basketball Tournament. My son played well over the tournament and his team won the championship! It was an exciting weekend and I would like to thank everyone who sent congratulations to us.
This past week, I was committed to 6 workshop trainings. I am just now catching my breath and getting ready for another training tonight. Hopefully things will start to settle down now and begin returning to normal...
I just wanted to make sure that everyone was aware that next week, April 13th through 19th, is the Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity to focus public attention on the needs of young children in your area and recognize the early childhood teachers and programs that teach and care for young children.
Did you know...
Working families need child care and supportive employer policies to be able to meet the needs of their young children throughout the day.
The theme of 2008's Week of the Young Child is "Bring Communities Together for Children—Children Bring Communities Together" For more information about what you can do to celebrate, go to http://naeyc.org/about/woyc/.
Well, I'm back. Hope that you missed me a little. The past week has been extremely hectic around the Wachter household. The weekend before last we were at the Minnesota Boys State Basketball Tournament. My son played well over the tournament and his team won the championship! It was an exciting weekend and I would like to thank everyone who sent congratulations to us.
This past week, I was committed to 6 workshop trainings. I am just now catching my breath and getting ready for another training tonight. Hopefully things will start to settle down now and begin returning to normal...
I just wanted to make sure that everyone was aware that next week, April 13th through 19th, is the Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity to focus public attention on the needs of young children in your area and recognize the early childhood teachers and programs that teach and care for young children.
Did you know...
Working families need child care and supportive employer policies to be able to meet the needs of their young children throughout the day.
- In the United States the majority of mothers with children under age 18 work, including 59% of those with infants and 74% of those with school-aged children.
- Approximately 13 million infants, toddlers, and preschool children are regularly in non-parental care in the United States, including 45% of children younger than one year.
- The Census Bureau reports that approximately 50% of working families rely on child care providers to help them care for their children while they work; 25% rely on relatives for child care; and nearly 25% arrange work schedules so that no child care is needed (e.g. parents work different hours or days; one parent works during school hours and is home after school).
- Research shows that high-quality early childhood programs help children--especially those from families with low-incomes--develop the skills they need to succeed in school.
- However, most programs in the United States are rated mediocre, and fewer than 10% meet national accreditation standards. Across the nation child care fees average $4,000 to $10,000 per year, exceeding the cost of public universities in most states. Yet, nationally only 1 in 7 children who are financially eligible for child care subsidies is being served, and only 41% of 3 and 4 year old children living in poverty are enrolled in preschool, compared to 58% of those whose families have higher incomes.
- Communities are becoming increasingly diverse and in order for early childhood educators to be effective they must be sensitive and responsive to children's cultural and linguistic backgrounds. If current population trends continue, by the year 2010 55% of America's children will be white, 22% will be Hispanic, 16% will be black, and 6% will be Asian or Pacific Islander.
The theme of 2008's Week of the Young Child is "Bring Communities Together for Children—Children Bring Communities Together" For more information about what you can do to celebrate, go to http://naeyc.org/about/woyc/.
