Have you heard her voice? She's Adorable!!
http://www.soulbounce.com/soul/2017/08/willow-smith-earths-children/
Saturday, September 30, 2017
Friday, September 29, 2017
Thursday, September 28, 2017
The Pillow Lady Inspires Children to Read: We Need a Pillow Lady in North Carolina
Living in the state of North Carolina, statistics have recently been reported that only about 36% of our children are reading on grade level by 3rd grade. Not only is that disturbing, it is embarrassing. Literacy and one's ability to speak intelligently are critical. In fact, those skills alone could enhance lives. Pillow Lady deserves all 'Hats Off' in honor of celebrating kids every single day by offering pillows for reading. Happy Reading!
http://www.omaha.com/sarpy/ralston/pillow-lady-inspires-children-to-read/article_8c5e9020-de39-51f9-af5f-eeeb0d74b264.htmlTalking to Kids About Hate-CNN
What are you doing to help your children deal with the hate that our country and world has experienced? Professionals continue to promote you 'speaking with your children' by gaining an understanding of how much they know foremost (asking open-ended questions). Once you know, offer 'love.' Both display love and the reasons why love is the best way to overcome the fear of violence that we have all become enslaved to.
http://www.cnn.com/2017/08/14/health/talking-to-kids-about-hate/index.htmlSpecial Experience for Children at Camp Sight
There are many illnesses that can affect a child's eyesight. When vision is impaired, it is important to ensure that social skills continue to develop. Here's an adorable example of a camp that was designed specifically to meet the needs of children who have impaired vision.
http://standardspeaker.com/news/special-experience-for-children-at-camp-sight-1.2229656Create an Open Environment for Children to Talk
The awkward silence present when the food is being pulled from the oven, and the cell phone lights that could illuminate the entire kitchen are examples of the feelings that parents experience when they need to make time for their children to talk openly with them. How do you encourage your children to engage with you? Need some other ideas? Take a peek.
https://www.internetmatters.org/hub/question/how-can-parents-create-an-open-environment-for-children-to-talk/A Professional Study of the Emotional Problems Among Children with Same Sex Parents
In my research of social issues related to children, seldom do I find scholarly articles written about children that are being raised by two same sex parents. I have served quite a number of children in same sex parent households, and my experiences do not exactly match the study results of displayed in this article. For that reason, if you are interested in the article and the contents, scroll to the bottom of the abstract and click on the entire report to review.
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2500537
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2500537
Helping Children Understand Divorce and Share Their Feelings
Helping children understand divorce is difficult. In fact, divorce is difficult for every person involved. Some communities have resources available to help families transition. It is important to allow children the opportunity to express and share their feelings. Children should never be made to feel guilty of 'causing' the separation and divorce. Being the very best parents is absolutely necessary and also helps with the transition.
https://www.deseretnews.com/article/865686727/Divorce-class-helps-children-understand-courts-share-their-feelings.htmlWednesday, September 27, 2017
Bilingual Children-The Truth Is...
In the past few years, rearing bilingual children has been seen as very positive and quite popular. What has been lost in the learning process is the child's ability to 'sponge' the information. It is important for families to know that when children are learning multiple languages at once, language development may be halted until nearly 20 months old. And, children are not sponges.
Enjoy!
https://qz.com/1051986/a-lot-of-our-ideas-about-bilingual-children-are-total-myths/
Great Start to Quality Michigan Families
Here's a tool that could assist families in finding care services that fits their family's needs.
https://www.greatstarttoquality.org/Girlsgogames Baby Daycare
Ever wonder about your babysitting skills? Here's a game that may allow you to 'update' your skills. Enjoy!
http://www.girlsgogames.com/game/baby_daycare
http://www.girlsgogames.com/game/baby_daycare
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Monday, September 25, 2017
2nd and 3rd Shift Workers: Finding Care to Meet the Need
It's a challenge to meet the needs of families who have parents that are 2nd or 3rd shift workers. Most ECE communities are opened for about 10-12 hours per day. Seldom, is there care offered for 2nd and 3rd shift workers. The next few years are expected to be an introduction to 'new hours' for early childhood educators. In fact, some have predicted 24 hour care programs will be in high demand of parents and those raising children. Take a peek at what others are doing in Spartanburg, SC.
http://wspa.com/2017/08/09/daycare-for-shift-workers/
http://wspa.com/2017/08/09/daycare-for-shift-workers/
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Kidney Disease FSGS Diet
Ever wonder about how you would deal with a severe kidney disease? When young children are forced to deal with issues such as kidney disease, it can not only stifle a child, but their entire family can be affected. Take a peek at some diet suggestions for those suffering from kidney disease.
https://www.statnews.com/2017/08/09/kidney-disease-fsgs-diet/Books that Authors read to Their Own Children
Do you get tired of reading the same books to your children? Wanna shake things up a bit? Try the suggestion list below.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/parenting/wp/2017/08/11/books-that-authors-read-to-their-own-children/?utm_term=.17c2414f0f1fTransgender Camp for Children Ages 4+
Nearly 15 years ago, I was serving as an early childhood education program director in South Charlotte. When I accepted the role, I loved the diversity in the program (both the families and the staff). On any given day of the week, many families toured our program. Additionally, I could accept nearly 25 phone calls per day, inquiring about the program. I will NEVER forget the day that I thought I changed the world, serving one family over the telephone, about 15 years ago.
The conversation:
After answering the phone, the voice on the other side sounded like a man's voice, who told me that his child was three years old. The gentleman told me that he was currently enrolled in a preschool in their current city (in the West). I began telling him about our preschool's philosophy of education and our unique methods of reaching young children and aiding in their development. When I was completed with that part of my pitch, the parent engaged in a question and answer session with me.
The Parent: Have you ever enrolled a child that dressed opposite of their gender?
My Response: In our preschool classrooms, we have traditional and nontraditional dress up clothing. Children are allowed to dress up in any fashion they desire.
The Parent: I was thinking more like, if the child came into the program in clothing that didn't match the traditional gender (A boy dressed in a dress).
My Response: Absolutely! All children are welcome here and however they enter our doors is the exact way that they will be loved and nurtured at the school.
The Parent: Have your teachers ever dealt with a situation such as our family? Do you have any children that currently dress as my child does? The father provided a little background by telling me that he and his wife have been raising their children in a manner that they allow them to choose their clothing, their activities, etc.
My Response: Our teachers are very diverse and fully open to diversity, which is a condition of their employment. As far as the other children go, children enter our program in a diverse manner daily. We promote love in the environment, as well as strong character development. Helping guide the children through any questions that they may have are perfectly fine, as long as the approach is positive and uplifting.
The Parent: Do you believe that other parents would look down on our child or family?
My Response: (candidly) If they did, they would have to deal with me.
Several other questions were asked, and we ended the conversation discussing the Charlotte area in general and the large family networks that existed all around the city.
Years later, I have certainly heard the phrase transgender often. And, I have even been privy to the change in opinions over the years in the south as well as in many religious affiliations. In serving children and their families, I enjoy being a part of 'diversity' making. It has taken quite some time to familiarize myself with phrases that are less likely to offend others. I finally have a diverse environment that seems to support me in my efforts to respect the human being that I serve. In doing so, I still face times when my blood boils when I hear phrases such as, 'Tim, you're a boy. And boys don't wear pink... or color with pink crayons.' Just as I respect our great nation, I also respect each and every human being that exists herein. I encourage my family, friends, and colleagues to take a moment to further a diverse agenda in education. It's really the Only option that we have.
The link below is a beautiful article about a transgender camp that began this summer and was utilized by families in our country and abroad. Take a peek and leave us an uplifting comment after reading.
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2017/08/07/transgender-camp-offers-programs-for-children-as-young-as-4.html
The link below is a beautiful article about a transgender camp that began this summer and was utilized by families in our country and abroad. Take a peek and leave us an uplifting comment after reading.
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Ohio Foster Care System Flooded
When young children are forced to deal with adult issues, the system becomes flooded. Today's heroin is not only extremely addictive, and has torn apart families, it has forced children to deal with insecurity at ages when they should be secure.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ohio-foster-care-system-flooded-with-children-opioid-epidemic/
Friday, September 22, 2017
Head Count and Document
Whenever children are present, Face to Name forms should be used. Field trips, going outdoors, etc. Face to Name Regularly: Decrease the possibility of the loss of a child.
This case is very sad but could happen to anyone who chooses to use 'their head' to face count each child (documenting on a transition form). It's time-consuming, but will nearly eliminate the possibility of losing a child's life.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/true-crime/wp/2017/08/08/a-day-care-driver-didnt-count-the-children-police-say-hours-later-one-was-found-dead/?utm_term=.37e85fac5707
When is it Appropriate to Discuss Sexual Topics with Young Children?
There isn't a perfect age to begin the conversation about sexual topics with children. Given today's access to pornographic material, if your child has been exposed, the discussions need to begin....
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/education/education-news/children-as-young-five-being-excluded-for-sexual-misconduct-pornography-assault-a7883156.htmlTry to gain an understanding of what your child already knows, and build the conversation from that point, without sharing too much.
Examination of Lead in Water at NC Schools and Daycares
Ever wonder what's in the water that your child sips while at school in NC?
http://wncn.com/2017/08/08/new-study-examining-lead-in-water-at-nc-schools-and-day-cares/
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Classroom Size Does Not Matter? Contrary to Beliefs
For many years, educators and researchers have held a long standing belief that the more children enrolled in classrooms (early childhood through preschool age), the less likely an educator is to help the students learn. The study referenced in this article covers many years, and I am not quite sure if I believe that classroom size doesn't matter, but I am open to further review and study.
https://www.romper.com/p/smaller-preschool-class-sizes-dont-really-affect-your-kids-achievements-study-finds-75053Helping New Moms Breastfeed at Work
Considering breastfeeding your baby? Take a look at the creative way that these organizations incorporated 'Motherhood' in order to keep mothers employed and performing exceptionally.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/from-crches-to-nursing-rooms-these-firms-help-new-moms-breastfeed-at-work/articleshow/59945922.cms
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Nursery Expansion Creating 40 Jobs
This is a lovely story about child care expansion. Happy Viewing!
No Plans to Pay for Children's College
There are many views about the way that children's college tuition should be paid. I must admit that with multiple children, I agree with the author of the attached article. I will help my children as much as is possible, but I expect a high degree of responsibility during their school years, hence leading to scholarships. https://www.dailyworth.com/posts/no-plans-pay-childrens-college
Children Sleep Outdoors
Young children need to spend as much time outdoors as possible. This article was refreshing. In years past, I remember my grandmother allowing us to sleep with our front door opened. Those nights were always such great times! My favorite place to drift off is still outside under the sun. Take a peek at the sleeping arrangements. Happy Viewing!
http://honey.nine.com.au/2017/08/07/14/55/children-sleep-outdoors
The Secret Ingredients to a Great Children's Book
Young children enjoy reading books that offer great detail and color! Take a look. Engage a Child!
Children's TV Just Isn't the Same
While young children should not be allowed to view television in large quantities of time, the shows that they are allowed to view need to have a positive message, and a familiar storyline, much like very young children when they figure out their favorite bedtime story (and want to listen to it every night). Children enjoy repetition and familiar feelings. This article tackles 'New day' television patterns, and offers some alternative ways to ensure that your little ones are enjoying 'quality' television time when it's allowed.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/08/06/mr-benn-50-dont-make-childrens-tv-like/Children Geo Fenced
Are parents 'snooping' or being proactive by using tracking devices for their children? There are split beliefs regarding this topic. Some believe that children deserve to be respected and not 'followed' or 'tracked.' Others believe that parents need to have a sense of ease in knowing that their children are safe.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/08/05/children-geo-fenced-worried-parents-create-summer-surge-demand/Help Protect Your Children from, YouTube
Many young children use YouTube daily. When children engage in YouTube viewing, there is a high possibility that they could come in contact with inappropriate material while browsing. Attached is an article that addresses the topic, and offers advice on ways to protect your children since it seems virtually impossible for them to do so.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/08/05/youtube-systematically-failing-protect-children-watchdog-claims/Stop Denying Children the Ability to Develop Resilience
At a very young age, children learn how to provide parents 'the cries' to help them determine what's wrong with them. Typically, this is when parents say, 'the hungry cry, the gas cry, the sleepy cry, etc.' How do children become 'resilient?' And, being a 'too safe' parent does not guarantee resilience to be taught when it should, so that children won't grow up and face tough times, and not be able to handle those times. Take a peek at the attached article and gain another perspective of how resilience should be taught.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/08/05/children-denied-chance-develop-resilience-strict-health-safety/Children Enjoying Pig Showing
There are many non-traditional therapies for people with disabilities, and even for those simply needing a break from everyday routines. Take a Peek!
http://www.jsonline.com/story/entertainment/festivals/state-fair/2017/08/04/children-disabilities-enjoy-showing-pigs-new-wisconsin-state-fair-event/529741001/
http://www.jsonline.com/story/entertainment/festivals/state-fair/2017/08/04/children-disabilities-enjoy-showing-pigs-new-wisconsin-state-fair-event/529741001/
Anti-Malaria Medications--Children
Did you know that, despite all the advancements in medicine, there are still nations that have serious illnesses that could affect millions of people (children)? Malaria is an illness that is classified as an illness derived from plasmodium parasites carried by female mosquitoes. The illness affects the human body by causing fever and flu-like symptoms, and can cause death in serious cases. Nigeria, as a country, has been fighting malaria for many years. Take a look at the article below to learn more about the way that this disease is being addressed.
https://www.voanews.com/a/who-children-nigeria-anti-malaria-drugs/3972734.htmlPick up Pals-Save you From Fees
Ever pull into the school's parking lot at 6:08, although they closed at 6:00? You may not be charged for the first offense, but if and when it happens again, you will have a fee, and some schools require the fee to be paid immediately. The fees typically range from $1 per hour to $50 per every 15 minutes (even if you didn't use the entire 15 minutes).
https://offspring.lifehacker.com/put-together-a-pick-up-pals-list-to-save-you-from-day-1797453321
https://offspring.lifehacker.com/put-together-a-pick-up-pals-list-to-save-you-from-day-1797453321
Monday, September 18, 2017
Boys Town National
This valuable research in the community is very necessary and deserves to be acknowledged. When young children have the ability to communicate, it is important that they are given all the tools to communicate comfortably.
http://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/health/boys-town-national-research-hospital-to-expand-focus-on-communication/article_030caf38-4abb-53a7-a6f3-53701f73c41a.htmlSunday, September 17, 2017
Inspection Not so Silly
When you've practiced in one industry greater than 15 years, it may not make you an expert in the industry, but it sure makes you well experienced. Some of the violations may seem silly to some, but it is important to note that the small details and basic regulations became legislation purposefully. For instance, not knowing an educator's qualifications (nor being able to provide evidence that it exists) may suggest that the educator lacks the skills and knowledge to create a safe and nurturing learning environment for young children. Another violation was due to the educators in the infant classroom not posting infant feeding schedules in the food prep area. Infant feeding schedules are completed by the infant's family, who determines the frequency of meals, the manner by which it is served, and other important information such as ensuring that an infant's bottle temperature is accurate, to avoid feeding issues. When infant apparatuses are built, many items are 'recalled.' Once those devices are recalled, it is critical for ECE administrators to ensure that the devices are removed and disposed of. If the items are being replaced, it should be completed and all documentation related to removal and replacements should be kept at the school. The use of a rewards system that was thought to 'child shame' children in preschool classrooms, using a jar of marbles for each child. Discipline needs to be done privately for each child, and because each child must be respected, the communication about each child's behavior needs to be protected and only shared with each child's family. Teacher education should continue even after employment. First aid and CPR are certifications that expire within a year to two years. It is important that educators attend the training sessions to ensure that they are always practicing proper and current standards.
Developing a sense of trust can be difficult, but the small details tend to either make or break trust when seeking care services for young children.
http://www.hot967.fm/2017/07/31/inspection-documents-17-violations-at-st-peter-daycare-some-may-sound-silly/
Thursday, September 14, 2017
Holiday Hunger Sports Project
Consider a program such as much as this one! You could help change the world today
Regret Improves Children's Decision Making
Helping children decide (on anything) can be quite a task. Helping young children learn how to make good decisions is certainly more challenging. Take a peek.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-40741254
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-40741254
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
As Young as 7 with a cell Phone
When did you get your first cell phone? How old were you? When should your child(ren) get their first cell phone(s)? Take a peek at the article below. Did it change your beliefs?
http://www.wlfi.com/story/35990134/when-are-children-ready-for-cellphones
http://www.wlfi.com/story/35990134/when-are-children-ready-for-cellphones
Monday, September 11, 2017
Sunday, September 10, 2017
International Accreditation from Australia
Have you ever considered international learning opportunities? Take a peek and see if you are eligible and interested.
https://fijisun.com.fj/2017/07/28/diploma-of-early-childhood-education-gets-australian-accreditation/Preparation for Kindergarten
Young children have many tools to aid in the learning process. In today's times, the internet is available with numerous educational games, etc. While I do believe that screen/media time should not be a primary form of education for young children, I can see how technology can enhance learning. Take a peek.
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/education/2017/07/26/internet-help-prepare-kindergarten/422950001/
Putting Anger Into Words: Close Your Dirty Mind and Stop Your Nasty Hands!
Over the years, it has been very difficult for me to hear cases such as the one posted. While reading this article, I felt uncontrollable anger because of the horrible experiences that a child had to endure. ECE environments have an obligation to ensure that every single caregiver and employee has been background checked (as each state mandates, and federal checks for states that require it), reference checked, and under significant supervision before becoming responsible for a group of children. While most programs complete these checks, many programs operate out of compliance by allowing educators to begin 'orientation and training' before all of the background check results are returned to the program.
I couldn't imagine a teacher conjuring an idea to assault a toddler. Surely, it takes a filthy mind and disgusting hands to touch a child in a sexual manner. Some questions come to mind: 'How or why were the classrooms not being observed and assessed regularly by management? Yet again, corporate ECE directors and administrators are often more engrossed with the 'numbers' than they are with ensuring that their program is operating at the highest rate of efficiency and quality.'
Young children need clear level headed educators to provide care, nurturing and education on a daily basis. To protect young children, programs should consider the use of more than one educator in every classroom, every single day, all day. There should be a list of approved substitutes that can fill in when one of the regular educators are not able to be present. Most programs do not have financial budgets to cover such an arrangement, but this is an area that state or federal subsidies could benefit the programs serving the young children.
It is important that families practice due diligence when enrolling their children in an ECE program. A couple pointers to foster open communication with your child's teachers:
1. Arrive at random times for pick ups.
2. Note the interactions with All staff members (sexism is unacceptable).
3. Volunteer in the program if it's possible.
4. Communicate openly with your children as well as the classroom teachers and administrators.
5. Speak up about situations that don't make you feel comfortable.
6. When your children are old enough to understand, teach the proper terms for body parts.
7. As children age, help them understand safe touches and those that are not appropriate.
8. Refrain from telling children that they're 'nasty or dirty' if you find them touching private parts of their body. Instead, explain the difference between a private bathroom, or sitting in the chair at a table in school.
9. Pay close attention to the results of state licensing and health and sanitation visits. If something makes you uncomfortable, ask for specifics.
No one wants a monstrous situation when they enroll their children in an ECE program. Help protect your children, and help build your community!
http://www.wowt.com/content/news/Daycare-faces-lawsuits-over-sexual-assaults-436423063.htmlCurtail Surgeries of Intersex Children
One of the many concerns that families face when they become pregnant is the gender of their child. Doctors need to know certain facts about their children's gender, often for the opposite reason that parents want to know the gender. About two years ago, I observed a documentary about this topic and was absolutely amazed, as I did not have much prior knowledge prior to the documentary. The article posted here offers a couple ways to think about intersex children's medical situation and the choices that must be made, and who should make the choices. Take a peek.
Crime Rates down, Lead Rates down
Outside of all the reasons that we believe about crimes rates increasing over time, the first thing that comes to mind probably isn't lead. However, take a moment to review this article about crime rates in lieu of lead exposure in children.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/06/170628172143.htmSwimmimg Lessons for Children
Children need to learn how to swim. Take a peek to see how and where your family could get much needed swim lessons.
http://www.bbc.com/news/education-40685881Saturday, September 9, 2017
Benefits of Early Childhood Education
Making a decision about enrolling a child in an early childhood education program is difficult. This article offers information about the benefits of ECE programs.
Take a Look.
http://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/nursery-world/news/1161787/seed-report-reveals-benefits-of-ecec-at-age-threeThe Benefits of Character Education
"To the teachers of this nation, I entrust the mandate to nurture, nourish, develop identity, and shape the character of our children, so that later they become a person who has integrity, honesty, morality, reason, and good manners," said Jokowi.
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/111986/making-character-education-part-of-every-school-dayThe Fourth Industrial Revolution
If you want to help your children in school, you must be ready to face a 'New Age' of education, and in order for your children to be successful in a New Age of education, parents must be willing to get out of their comfort zones. Believe it or not, we are entering an age where parents who aren't savvy will be unable to help their children with simple homework. Enter the not so comfortable zone. Find where you and your children fit in the fourth industrial revolution.
This article begins the conversation. Happy Reading!!!
http://www.news24.com/Columnists/GuestColumn/the-future-wont-wait-20170721
This article begins the conversation. Happy Reading!!!
http://www.news24.com/Columnists/GuestColumn/the-future-wont-wait-20170721
Donations Toward Early Childhood Literacy
So many early childhood educators seek ways to impact the industry. This is a beautiful article chronicling the work of the Reidsville Junior Service League.
http://www.greensboro.com/rockingham_now/news/eden_reidsville/junior-service-league-donates-k-toward-early-childhood-literacy/article_bc990d46-6b16-11e7-9b42-b7a4815e6204.htmlConstruction Workers Children
I often tell my children that in my 'real life' I am going to open a band of make-shift schools for families living in rural areas, those that travel, etc. I reviewed this lovely story and my dream was 'charged.' This is Beautiful!
http://www.thenewsminute.com/article/building-new-futures-bengaluru-couple-started-school-just-construction-workers-kids-65618Friday, September 8, 2017
Children are the Future
Believing that the Children are our Future is important. Let's nurture and love our children into leadership.
Happy Reading!
Rhythm, the Arts
Could anything be greater than seeing little ones enjoy music...rhythm. Some of my happiest days were spent without any other sounds other than nature's creatures chirping, opened windows, with light music playing and soothing the soul.
Happy Reading!
http://www.sierrasun.com/entertainment/the-arts/rhythm/The Global Search for Education
We are all human. A Diverse People. Dear Parents, we are all in this together!
Male ECEducators
Young children need consistent educators that care about them. In recent years, male early childhood educators increased, but have begun to trend the opposite way. Our industry will always need good, qualified instructors and leaders, regardless of gender. Check out the trends in New Zealand.
Childhood Poverty After the Great Recession
Today's poverty rates have shifted, but research shows that children living in poverty still perform lower than children their same age, living in affluent neighborhoods.
http://www.campussafetymagazine.com/research/rise-childhood-poverty-great-recession/
How Much Does Child Care Cost?
Early Childhood Education services are a major expense for families. Take a look at the link and see which states have the most affordable services for parents.
Supporting the Simultaneous Needs of Two Generations.
Parents and their children have gained the support of the University of New Mexico. The care offered by the university caters to families that attend the university, even providing non-traditional hours of care. This is truly a model program, and mostly free or reduced for students.
Happy Reading!
Non-Traditional Preschools. Good for the Creativity of the Young
If you want to see your child develop a sense of creativity, they must be allowed to step out of Your comfort zone. Young children have a sense of creativity that seems to be natural. When given the opportunity, they have the ability to create art structures, art masterpieces, and the like. Should certain materials be off limits to children? How close to 'danger' could a child come, and remain safe? In this article, my philosophy of education is expressed. I encourage the use of a variety of materials to invoke the learning process. Nontraditional.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/parenting/little-kids/preschool/94968635/fire-pits-and-power-tools-good-for-kids-at-kindy--australian-studyThursday, September 7, 2017
State Licensing Forces Child Care to Close
Having worked in Early Childhood Education for the past 20 years, 15 of those years were spent managing the operations of ECE communities. I have found that all states have the same lump sum of problems that seemingly have not been repaired through the years. Supervision(of the children), discipline(negative, use of force, emotional abuse), poor training(hiring teachers without proper credentialing to avoid paying top rates of pay), and taking advantage of an already broken subsidy program offered to families deemed to be in poverty.
I have been outspoken about religious child care programs that have evaded state licensing by applying for religious licensure, which may grant the use of negative behavioral discipline practices based upon today's child care standards. Often, parents choose religious programs because many of these environments rule, with the iron fist which parents often think the children will obtain manners and other religious practices. Some of these programs thrive on being able to force children to do things, through fear tactics. If a program has failed one child in a program by using physical or emotional tactics, it has failed all children in their care.
http://www.bradenton.com/news/local/crime/article162550738.html
I have been outspoken about religious child care programs that have evaded state licensing by applying for religious licensure, which may grant the use of negative behavioral discipline practices based upon today's child care standards. Often, parents choose religious programs because many of these environments rule, with the iron fist which parents often think the children will obtain manners and other religious practices. Some of these programs thrive on being able to force children to do things, through fear tactics. If a program has failed one child in a program by using physical or emotional tactics, it has failed all children in their care.
http://www.bradenton.com/news/local/crime/article162550738.html
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
Who's Disadvantaged in ECE Communities
The views expressed in this article, chronicle a speech on Capitol Hill by Ms. Katharine Stevens. Recently, I launched a study about the use of the word, disadvantaged, as it relates to early childhood communities. Disadvantaged can be defined as a group that doesn't have the means to change their circumstances, low income, or being in an environment where high levels of education are lacking. While serving the ECE community, I often wondered if I would feel comfortable telling the families that I was serving that because of the average income in the community, the lack of education, and the lack of resources, their family was considered 'disadvantaged' and 'vulnerable.' I would not feel comfortable with such a statement. I believe that all young children, not offered early childhood education, are vulnerable as compared to children who attended.
Young children are not able to change their parents' situations. When families do not have positive financial gains, they may be prompted to make negative decisions such as choosing unlicensed child care, expecting to escape the expense. In today's time, much of America is considered financially vulnerable, including children with both single and married parents. The middle and lower classes of America have shifted over the years, and since it has, it's important to understand that making good decisions about the care of the youngest is not only a parental issue but a crisis worthy of being assessed and addressed by both local and state agencies that oversee ECE communities. When we consider that all children are disadvantaged or vulnerable, it makes me wonder where are the children that are not vulnerable, and advantaged? Having worked in both higher and the lower socioeconomic backgrounds of families, I have found that families and the issues that they face daily are quite similar. Regardless of a family's ease to pay premium fees for ECE, the expense is one that is rated in comparison with a mortgage payment (average fees $1300 per month), a family's income should no longer be used to determine the vulnerability of children and their families.
ECE programs in our country need an overhaul. The programs that are not able to meet federal requirements, need to be phased out over time. Programs that currently operate under federal standards must also uphold the standards. If we continue to 'drag our feet,' young children will be waiting for years to come.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Daycare Dilemma
I came upon this article and found that it was a dilemma that I encountered many many times with families. Often, families enter early childhood communities with many questions, and an auto-mistrust for the program, while realizing that they must enroll their children because they must return to work. I always told prospective families that they must feel comfortable leaving their children, every program is not going to accommodate their children. Most children adapt to a new environment within about 30 days, provided that the routines are consistent. Part time children may take an additional 30 days. Consistency is key! If a child isn't able to adjust to a program, there may be unseen reasons why, but I encourage parent meetings if things seem to be going negatively. Go with your gut, always!
http://www.iheartradio.ca/c100-fm/blogs/lifewithcharlie-the-daycare-dilemma-1.2869409
http://www.iheartradio.ca/c100-fm/blogs/lifewithcharlie-the-daycare-dilemma-1.2869409
Sunday, September 3, 2017
La Feria Daycare Helping Children with Special Needs
There are many challenges, finding early childhood education services for young children with disabilities and their families. There are laws that protect children who have disabilities. However, the laws allow some leniency. I encourage you reading this article to gain more knowledge about the way that young children and their families should be seeking early childhood education
Happy Read!
La Feria Daycare Helping Children with Special Needs: One mother said it was difficult finding a daycare that would help her son.
Friday, September 1, 2017
Wrong Mindset: Career vs. Children
Yes, it's the age-old conversation about how people choose to raise their families, and perform well in their careers as well. Families and Careers are two topics that must be discussed prior to marriage and children. Today's family dynamics are very different from traditional views. While many still argue about families reaching balance between career and children, (if one exists), others believe that one area more than the other, will always take precedence. I personally believe that all things balance eventually. While famiilies may need to dedicate a certain amount of time to being career focused, they should also focus time on parenting children as well. Not too small, not a large amount, just enough!
https://www.cnbc.com/2017/07/18/career-vs-children-is-wrong-mindset-its-not-a-trade-off-commentary.html
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