Children Design Hospital Gowns

There are so many children in our society that suffer from illnesses, and it does their heart (and mine) good to hear stories like this one!  Take a look!.  Please, Like, RT/Share if you like.
https://www.newschannel5.com/news/children-design-hospital-gowns

The Reggio Approach

Take a look!  Please Like, RT/Share if you like!  http://www.bordermail.com.au/story/5193495/old-rta-site-goes-off-road-as-it-re-emerges-in-a-new-guise/

CBS Reports: Sports Venues are Striving to Serve the Needs of Autistic Fans

All children should be able to enjoy large venues and entertainment in peace and in a manner that respects their needs.  Take a look at the various cities that have adjusted their stadiums to accommodate.  Take a look.  Please, Like, RT/Share if you like!
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/sports-venues-striving-to-serve-needs-of-autistic-fans/

Benefits of Playing with your Children

It can be quite pricey to spend time outside of home with children.  Take a moment to become invigorated! 
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/benefits-of-play-for-kids_uk_5a685782e4b002283007ee4c

New Study: Nutrition Closely Linked with Adult Education, Employment, and Later in Life

Please Like, RT/Share, if you like!

"The study suggested that adults who received good nutrition while still in womb or during the first three years of their life, as compared to those who did not, were  9 percent more likely to complete secondary school and 11 percent more likely to complete graduate education."http://www.newindianexpress.com/lifestyle/health/2018/jan/26/early-life-nutrition-closely-linked-with-adult-education-employment-outcomes-later-in-life-study-1763824.html

Regional Funders Backing Early Childhood Learning with a Twist

Young children's families have long shared fears and worries about their desires to have a family and be able to afford high-quality ECE services. The children often end up suffering at the hand of caregivers that may not have the education nor resources available to ensure they enter Kindergarten and 1st grade ready to learn, and on grade level for critical skills.  We only have a handful of philanthropists that both promote and invest in the early education of children.  If you've been blessed to help the ECE industry, take a look at these funders and consider how your organization or funds can be used to benefit families. 
https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/home/2018/1/25/the-regional-funders-backing-early-childhood-learning-with-a-twist

Children Chore List Sparks Controversy

Ever wonder what's age appropriate for children to do around the house?  When you see things get left undone, refer back to your chart and see if you're being realistic about what they can do.  There are many ways that families raise their little ones today.  Take a moment to see if you agree with some of the age-appropriate chores that your child could participate with.  Please Like, RT/Share if you like!
https://tylerpaper.com/lifestyle/family/children-s-chore-list-sparks-controversy/article_693e31ea-011f-11e8-b698-cfc65210371e.html

Genetic IQ May Change with Education, Environment

A child’s environment is the critical tool that allows his or her genetic IQ to flourish, according to a new study published in the journal Psychological Bulletin.  Please, Like, RT/Share if you like!  

https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/01/24/childs-genetic-iq-may-change-with-education-environment/131668.html

Champion our Community's Youngest Learners

Research shows that children enrolled in quality early childhood education are significantly more likely to achieve future benchmarks of success – even beyond school. In fact, one intensive study tracked early childhood education participants for 40 years and found that as adults they had higher earnings, committed fewer crimes; and were more likely to hold a job.

Please Like, RT/Share if you like!

http://www.grandrapidsmn.com/opinion/let-s-champion-our-community-s-youngest-learners/article_75a46844-0086-11e8-8091-173e8ea54c75.html

Early Learning Village, Amazing!

This is an example of a true learning village.  Take a peek! Please Like, RT/Share if you like!  

https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/buildings/big-school-bogle-architects-early-learning-village-in-singapore/10027307.article


































































































































































































































































































































































































































ps://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/buildings/big-school-bogle-architects-early-learning-village-in-singapore/10027307.article

High Sugar Intake During Pregnancy may Increase Pediatric Asthma Risk

So many factors have the ability to affect the outcome of a pregnancy.  Asthma is often seen as a childhood illness, and for some, it could extend into the teen and adult years.  It is very important to know the risks associated with the foods that we consume, especially during pregnancy.  Please take a moment and review the attached article.  Please Like, RT/Share if you like! 
http://www.mdmag.com/medical-news/high-sugar-intake-during-pregnancy-may-increase-pediatric-asthma-risk 

Children with Autism may Benefit from Being Bilingual

"In the first study of its kind, scientists show that bilingual children with autism spectrum disorders can switch mental gears more easily than those who can only speak one language."https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320640.php

ECE Dilemma for Families

Helping families find early childhood services at affordable rates is difficult in all 50 states.  While there are extreme costs in some areas, an average weekly rate for child care throughout the country is between $200-350 per child.  Some businesses offer lesser fees for more children within the family, but others offer a small discount.  Offering high-quality care for children does come with quite a price tag.  The problem that I have pondered through the years is why all families in every state does not have the same peace that they have financially, after their children begin kindergarten.  While some states have opted to cover the early education of children at the age of 3-4 years old, many parents do not have the ability to afford care for their children without making significant adjustments to their household budgets and expenses.  

http://www.messenger-inquirer.com/news/local/day-care-dilemma-high-costs-few-options-frustrate-some-parents/article_d3cea5b6-d0bf-57a7-80a1-719a15dad47a.html

Why Wait to Unleash Creativity

Taken from the attached article, why would we not nurture the creativity in young children?  Educators maintaining a burning desire to teach children new concepts is awesome, but being able to invest in their future is absolutely the best!  Take a moment to review this inspirational article.  

Rufus Norris says “During these uncertain times we must feed any golden geese we have, and a steady stream of qualified graduates and school-leavers is the strongest investment for the future we can make” (Why are we squeezing creativity out of our schools?, 17 January). But why wait for the future? If we disregard the skills, creativity and ideas that children have at this very moment, we will be poorer for it. They also have a lot to teach.

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2018/jan/18/why-wait-to-unleash-childrens-creativity

Children's Book by Lupita Nyongo

The lovely Lupita Nyongo is writing a children's book set for release in early 2019.  Take a look at a few specifics.  The book is said to be about, Colorism.  Please Like, RT/Share if you like! 
http://time.com/5107926/lupita-nyongo-childrens-book/

Brushing Only Partly Protects Children's Teeth

It's the meals that children consume that determines their oral hygiene and health.  "Snacking was the factor most strongly associated with decay, with children who snacked all day without eating meals having twice the chance of decay compared with those who did not snack at all."Take a moment to review the details.  Please Like, RT/Share if you like.  
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-42703741

The Iowa Bone Density Study: Science Direct

"Conclusions. Low levels of vigorous physical activity and high levels of TV viewing are associated with fatness in young children during the adiposity rebound period. This suggests that increasing children's active play may be important in preventing obesity later in life."

We have heard that more physical activity in young children is important, this study aims to tell why.  Take a look.  Please Like, RT/Share, if you like!

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091743502911138

Ted Med Talk: What are we Doing About Children with Epilepsy?

What do you know about your child's brain and how it develops?  The brain is to be handled gently in order to obtain positive outcomes.  Nurture the developing brain.  The attached show is quite informative.  Take a look.  Please Like, RT/Share if you like! 
https://www.tedmed.com/talks/show?id=7079

Talk to Your Children About Sex

Is there a 'birds and the bees' talk in today's time?  If so, what does it sound like?  Most parents also want to know when the talk should happen.  There are a few facts that should be consistent regardless of when you decide to have the talk.  A few tips:  1.  Listen to your children's conversations with friends.  Some would suggest that doing so could cause trust issues, but as parent, you get to make the call.  2.  When discussing body parts, do so using the correct terms for body parts.  3.  It's ok if your child leads the way so that you may gain an understanding of how much your child already knows.  4.  Allow the conversation to be ongoing so that your child is comfortable coming back to you.  Take a moment to review the article below.  Please Like, RT/Share if you like!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5269661/Isiah-McKimmie-Talk-children-sex.html

Criminal Justice System Statistical Data, Children of Color

The criminal justice system is tasked with administering punishment for both children, teens, and adults when laws have been broken.  While the trends have shifted in recent years, children are still serving the time that they received as a result of the breaking of the law.  Take a look at this article for more specific data related to the criminal justice system and children of color.  Please Like, RT/Share this article if you like!
https://www.teenvogue.com/story/criminal-justice-system-discriminates-children-of-color

The Children are Watching and Listening

As a young girl, I watched the evening news with my grandmother every day.  On Friday nights, if I was able to, I stay awake long enough to watch Nightline.  I enjoyed watching 60 Minutes on Sundays, and today, my news watching habits are quite similar.  The only difference is that now, my children watch similar shows with me.  But, should they?  Our children are experiencing American politics in the worst way, or will they be impressed with the cyberbullying, profane language, and lack of ability to self-control.  Our children do not need to be a part of the system, as it exists. Take a look at this article.  Please Like, RT/Share it if you like!  https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/the-children-are-watching-and-listening_us_5a5a4b59e4b0a233482e0bcd

Pre-to-3: Study Examines Drama's Links to Early Literacy

"Students don’t have to attend the theater, however, in order for drama to support their reading comprehension skills. That’s what the leaders of Childsplay, a Tempe, AZ-based children’s theater, are finding as part of their Early Years Educators at Play (EYEPlay) program, which trains teachers working with 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds to integrate drama into early literacy instruction by pairing them with professional theater teaching artists."
If you like this article, Please Like, RT/Share!  

https://www.educationdive.com/news/pre-to-3-study-examines-dramas-links-to-early-literacy/514569/

Improve Early Childhood Education: Nurture the Teachers

The educators that serve young children make very crucial decisions on behalf of your child, and spend the second highest amount of time with your child, averaging 10-12 hours per day.  Early educators have many challenges that they face every single day, and treating them like they deserve 'the best of everything' is important.  A few ways that honoring and nurturing teachers at the school level are simple.  1.  Create a parent appreciation council.  2.  Offer parental incentives each month (car wash owners, retail and grocery owners/employees, etc.).  3.  Create an educator 'interest' book available to families, containing the teachers and all staff 'favorites'.  4.  Honor educators during teacher appreciation week. 
On a larger scale, until early childhood education is recognized as a part of the traditional education system, early educators need as much nurturing as is possible.  Early educators need benefits that are affordable and equitable to those of traditional educators in the schools.  Take a look at this article to 'enlighten' your beliefs about educators.  Please Like, RT/Share it!
http://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2018/01/12/to-improve-early-childhood-education-nurture-teachers

Houston Welcomes Thinker Garden, Reggio Emilia Inspired

https://communityimpact.com/local-news/houston/cy-fair/features/business/2018/01/10/298610/

Our Most Important Teachers are Paid the Least

"Teachers who don’t have rich vocabularies or groundings in math and science can’t impart those things to their students, he says. In a 2015 report, the Institute of Medicine agreed. The report argued that holding preschool teachers to lower standards than public-school teachers has fed the perception that the work itself is low-skill and in turn has helped justify policies that keep preschool teachers’ wages down and prevent them from growing professionally."

Take a moment to view.  Please Like/RT and Share!

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/09/magazine/why-are-our-most-important-teachers-paid-the-least.html

A New Book on how Children Learn

Many renown psychologists have studied how children learn.  From the moment that early educators decide that they enjoy working with children, most end up teaching from a script, versus creating lesson plans based on the developmental needs of the children in their classroom.  Dr. Graton's book is an excellent resource for educators that promote diversity and are willing to explore nature, even using nature as the classroom.  Take a peek.  Please, Like, RT/Share!  

http://www.sonomawest.com/sonoma_west_times_and_news/news/graton-psychologist-publishes-new-book-on-how-children-learn/article_99685e62-f581-11e7-9ce2-a7ad8b184180.html

Violet Media and Aggressive Behavior in Children

We have known for many years now, that violent media can cause aggressive behavior in children.  Children can be more aggressive especially after viewing violent programming.  It is important that children's media is assessed, beforehand when possible.  Take a look at the article below to learn more about the ways that children react to violence.  Please, Like, RT/Share this article if you find it likable and useful.  

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-baby-scientist/201801/violent-media-and-aggressive-behavior-in-children

Why Children Resist Bedtime

When children find it difficult to fall asleep at bedtime, many times, they are asserting their control over the only part of their day that they are able to make their very own sound decisions.  Although I was not given options at bedtime, I went through a phase where only my grandmother seemed to understand my desire for a piece of fruit, whatever she was having for her bedtime snack, or an extra sip of water.  Because of that, I always knew if she said, 'bedtime,' she had her reasons (most of the time when the adults were talking 'adult stuff').  Take a look at this article that may help you get through bedtime routine.  If you like this article, Like it, RT/Share it!  

http://www.thecitizen.co.tz/magazine/soundliving/Why-children-resist-bedtime/1843780-4254522-2i2cax/index.html

Teaching Children Self Control

This article was written for me, and because my emotions have gotten involved, I leave you with this article and am certain that it will help your family in much the same way that it affected mine.  Happy Reading!  Don't forget to Like it, RT/Share it with someone else that it could help!  

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/how-raise-happy-cooperative-child/201801/teaching-children-self-control

Patents: Why Children Don't Become Inventors

Some of the world's greatest inventors 'mistakenly' found a more efficient way to perform a duty that mattered to them.  Statistically, there are many ways that certain children may become inventors, but what are ways that could families nurture the silent inventor inside of each of us?  The answer is something that I heard often growing up, 'If you want success, hang around those that are successful.  If you want trouble, hang around those that start trouble.'  Take a look at this article, Like it, RT/Share it with those that may find this article helpful.  http://fortune.com/2018/01/07/inventors-patents-race-gender/

Children Suffer Most When Poverty Strikes

Children are required to take on adult issues when poverty strikes 'just right.'  When children try, but have many days when they would rather be at school, or anyplace that offers even a small amount of solace, they are tackling adult issues.  Poverty doesn't belong to one race (although many faces look quite similar).  In a better world, children would not ever be the sufferers.  It is important that adults tackle adult issues, and priorities must shift in order for children to suffer less (or not at all).  It's bothersome to think that these adult issues could clearly tear apart the lives of children long before they reach adulthood.  Indeed, these are the topics that community leaders need to continue to address, and serving with a smile is a great experience both for parents and their children.  Take a look at the article below.  Like it, RT/Share it so that it may help another family that you may be able to reach.  

http://buffalonews.com/2018/01/05/my-view-children-suffer-most-when-poverty-strikes/

Weaning Children Off Screens

Do you happen to remember several articles back, when we addressed screen time versus human time?  We are again, at the crossroads for screens and children.  When parents purchase screens, rarely do they believe that they are contributing to their children's learning impairment.  I urge parents to ensure that their children have defined times of the day when they are allowed to use screens (phones, tablets, ipads, etc.).  Further, the time needs to be limited, and if time is excessive, it would be wise to begin the weaning process.  Also, take a look at the article below, like it, and RT/Share it with other families that may need assistance.  

http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/weaning-children-off-screens/article22388000.ece

The Difference Between Children's Books in China and the US

There are many hidden messages in the stories that children read.  I have found it very important to help children gather the messages from the readings and give them the freedom of applying the lesson to their own lives, or how the message could help our environment.  Take a look at this article to see how the hidden messages could be uncovered and put to work. 
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2018/01/06/573869099/whats-the-difference-between-children-s-books-in-china-and-the-u-s

Hating the DC Early Childhood Education Mandate for Degrees

While it may seem inconceivable, that a state government would force an industry to obtain degrees within a certain amount of time,  I strongly disagree with the opinion that there is no need for the requirement.  Families in the DC area pay hefty fees for ECE services.  The hefty fees did come about before most states, and unfortunately, the mandate would only match the requirements in states that deem ECE to be a lucrative and highly educated industry.  In those states, teacher education is the first component of high-quality care for children.  Those of us that have worked inside ECE programs know that education of the instructor matters, such as in the case of children that may have a teacher whose 'safety' inside the classroom may be acceptable, but they regularly misspell words, speak improperly, or unable to clearly understand the age and developmental stage in order to provide age-appropriate care.  There is a plethora of reliable sources and studies that have been produced over the years, that support the notion that just as public school instructors must be degreed and pass several state-mandated examinations; so should early childhood educators.  The requirements are not out of the norm.  I do believe, however, that a proper and well thought through transition plan may aid in transitioning into the new system.  

http://reason.com/blog/2018/01/05/everyone-hates-dcs-daycare-mandate

A Visual Schedule for Children and Adults with Autism

Here's a nifty tool for persons that may need visual reminders to stay connected to routines.  Take a look.  https://www.closingthegap.com/children-with-autism-a-visual-schedule/

What's Going on According to Children and Families, Going into the New Year

http://www.ncsl.org/blog/2018/01/05/whats-new-from-children-and-families-december-2017.aspx

Palmetto Health Hospital Gives Tips for Protection of Young Children from Cold

Over the years, doctors have been very instrumental in providing high-quality health care in respect of the weather and how children should be protected.  The article below encourages families to be diligent in ensuring that your children are protected during wintry weather.  

https://www.palmettohealth.org/patients-guests/news/childrens-hospital-tips-protect-children-from-cold

Diphtheria, Preventable; Children are Still Contracting

Children in Yemen are suffering from a preventable disease, diphtheria.  Take a look and see what is being done. 
https://www.voanews.com/a/who-children-yemen-diphtheria/4194102.html

Tulsa Oklahome PreK Shows Benefits Into Middle School

For those of us that research the effectiveness of early childhood education on young children, it is difficult to obtain measurable success records either because the research was not done, or because measurment is simply difficult considering all other factors that could impact the education of young children.  Take a peek at the research found in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/early_years/2018/01/tulsa_okla_pre-k_shows_benefits_into_middle_school.html

Jamie Oliver Urges the Government to ban the Sale of Energy Drinks to Children SZA

Jamie Oliver has been on the journey for many years regarding the health habits of children.  Few schools measure the level of quality needed for children to receive optimum health benefits from the foods served.  Energy drinks are certainly an area of nutrition that should not be overlooked.  Take a look at his statements and if you agree, spread the word about the negative implications that energy drinks can have on children. 
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/jamie-oliver-energy-drink-ban-chef-urges-government-a8142516.html

Innovative Early Education Models

Innovative educators needed.  Take a moment and see if you have what it takes! 
https://www.educationdive.com/news/wanted-innovative-early-education-models/514099/

Picture Books were once Considered Dangerous for Children

If you love history, you will love this article.  Take a look at the evolution of children's books. 

https://daily.jstor.org/why-picture-books-were-once-considered-dangerous-for-children/

Brain Food: Exploring Connections Between Nutrition and Learning

According to www.healthline.com, 12 of the foods that are considered to be healthy and nutrient dense:  eggs, greek yogurt, coffee (not so much for the kiddos), oatmeal, chia seeds, berries, nuts, green tea, protein shake, fruit, flaxseeds,  and cottage cheese.  While this is not a complete list, studies such as the one just below give excellent advice about helping children obtain foods that are nutritious and could impact their ability to learn.  Essentially, while it is important 'to eat' it is more important to ensure that the food consumed is nutrient dense. 
https://www.news.virginia.edu/content/brain-food-exploring-connections-between-nutrition-and-learning

New Orleans ECE, has a New Face

In researching ECE trends in all 50 states, I encourage the reviewing of this uplifting article about the ways that ECE programs have changed over time to provide a higher quality.  

http://www.nola.com/education/index.ssf/2018/01/early_childhood_education_1.html

Arts Rich Preschool Readies Kids for Learning

What does art have to do with it?  Children, sensory, and the arts are all very important in the overall development of children's learning.  Take a look at this article, and the ways that families should go about helping children learn through the arts.  

https://psmag.com/education/arts-rich-preschool-readies-kids-for-learning

Breaking the Hold of Drugs to Earn the Embrace of Her Children

Young children have many challenges, without the stronghold of drugs that their parents may endure.  This story was originally reported by the NY Times, and I found myself in tears at the end.  Take a moment to read this article.  You never know when you're going to have to go into 'action' mode.  This article helps prepare you for such. 

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/03/nyregion/breaking-the-hold-of-drugs-to-earn-the-embrace-of-her-children.html?_r=0

Researchers Offer New Evidence on 4 year old Children's Knowledge About Ecology

For all early educators, it is important to have an understanding of how children understand nature and the world around them.  Additionally, there are some statistics that seem to hold true year after year.  Take a look at this article to see how this has actually changed over time.

https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2018/january/researchers-offer-new-evidence-on-4-year-old-childrens-knowledge-about-ecology/

Children Become Collateral Damage in Florida Opioid Crisis

We've all seen them.  Children that are forced to care for their own opioid addicted parents are forced to endure the misery of caring for their parents, at a time when they themselves need parents that are addicted to parenting them.  The children have wandered into the streets, into shelters, but somtimes into the hands of dangerous individuals that truly don't care about their general welfare.  About a year ago, when I reviewed an article about parents that were getting high with their children sitting in the backseat of the car.  I originally thought that it was an isolated incident, later to learn that not only was it not an isolated incident, it was very common. If you or someone you know are in crisis, seek help.  We never say never, knowing that each of us are, only a moment away from our own crisis.  No judgements.  Seek help! 

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/political-pulse/os-legislature-opioids-20180102-story.html

You Go Girl, Cindy Gets Creative for Children

The best educators in the world are those that are able to connect with children in a variety of ways, this educator is one of the most creative that I have ever encountered!  Take a look!
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2018/jan/02/cindy-gets-creative-for-children/

Autism Rates in the US Stabilizing

In recent years, there have been many concerns throughout the country, regarding autism and the numbers of children that have been categorized on the autism spectrum.  Having educators in place that have a knowledge of developmental milestones can help both children and their families by noticing concerns early. Take a moment to review new data. 
http://time.com/5084331/autism-rates-us-stable/

Greenwich Preschool Nature Classroom Gets a Nod

Ever get an urge to design your own playground?  Nature is a classroom's best teacher!  Take a look at this playground and the nod they received.  Reggio Emilia, An Inspiration that allows nature to 'take hold.'  

http://www.greenwichtime.com/local/article/Greenwich-preschool-s-nature-classroom-gets-12467657.php

A Degree is Necessary if Your Child is Attending an Early Childhood Education Program

Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at your child's child care/preschool program?  Statistically, young children benefit from their child's teacher, in early childhood, when there is a clear understanding of the developmental age, and what it will take for the children to progress into the next developmental stages across the domains.  Having your child attend a program where the primary teachers are not degreed, could actually lessen your child's ability to learn both properly and orderly.  Take a look at the article below. 
http://theconversation.com/why-your-childs-preschool-teacher-should-have-a-college-degree-88514

Here's Why Children Play with Fire and How to Stop Them

We know how devastating the recent fires were in the Bronx, NY.  The fire was started by a child that survived this tragedy.  Children are often fascinated with fires, and after reading this article, you will be able to lessen the likelihood of your child(ren) starting a fire.  Take a look. 
http://www.post-gazette.com/news/nation/2018/01/01/Here-s-why-children-play-with-fire-and-how-to-stop-them/stories/201712310469

MSN Reports: Predators Exploiting Irish Children Through Video Chat Sites

When children browse sites such as Instagram and Snapchat, they could be in danger.  As families become familiar with the social media sites their children use, they have an obligation to not only know the sites but also to frequent those sites to keep their children safe.  Remember when Facebook was the 'new' social media and so many teens were frequently using it?  Now that more adults and parents are using FB, lesser children and teens are using it.  In order to be effective, parents need to frequent their children's social media, all forms.  Take a peek at this alarming article: 

https://www.msn.com/en-ie/news/national/predators-exploiting-irish-children-through-video-chat-sites-warns-expert/ar-BBHJrzx

Receiving an Education in the Mountains

"Confucius said 'A cultured man is not a tool.' Children should not be brought up in a uniform way, and they should be allowed to realize their different potential," Zhang says.http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-01/01/c_136864443.htm

Cameras in Child Care, in Korea

Over the years, my opinion of surveillance has evolved.  About 15 years ago, a new early childhood community installed cameras that were accessible to parents attending that program.  It sounded like a great idea at first, and later I believed that the surveillance was a 'legal matter,' waiting to happen.  Just about 7 years ago, I operated a program that provided recorded surveillance, unavailable to families online.  At both programs, I lost families to programs that had footage of their children available online.  In more recent years, I operated two programs that provided online video surveillance to enrolled families.  My primary concern was that there were areas in the classroom where the cameras were unable to view.  My opinion is that those areas of the classroom could pose some threat to the children when they played in those areas.  Additionally, educators could be subject to accusations while in those areas.  Under my directorship, I demanded that educators refuse to spend time in areas that were not visible under surveillance.  My decision to mandate such a rule was not accepted with open arms, instead, I received complaints from educators that were not comfortable with being under surveillance 'all day.'  In the case of this program in Korea, laws were enacted when families could not prove that their children were abused.  Families were witnessing their children being released from the program daily with bruises and behaving traumatized.  In this case, the judge ruled that the cameras in use were constitutional, despite the school's belief that providing footage would be an infringement of the children's privacy.  In most states in the US, if the cameras are installed, and recording, the footage should be made available to the state's child care law enforcement.  Surveillance is not a licensing law in any of the 50 states.  Take a look at this article.  What do you think?
http://m.koreatimes.co.kr/phone/news/view.jsp?req_newsidx=241751

Finland 2018 Changes to Taxation of Beer, Daycare, and More

As you may know, I research early childhood education news, laws, and issues throughout the US and abroad.  This article I found to be very interesting, as it shows an alternative to the way that we manage our taxes here, in the US.  The benefits provided to families with children are plentiful! 
https://yle.fi/uutiset/osasto/news/what_changes_in_2018_taxes_beer_daycare_chargesand_more/10001013

New Laws Tackle Daycare and Women's Health Issues in Nevada

While I commend the state of Nevada for acting on behalf of children by requiring expanded background checks on early educators, why did it take so long?  And, as a parent or person who may have family members attending early childhood programs, did you know that many states only require their employees to pass a local and sometimes a state background check? Hence, if an educator had charges related to children or other legal issues, they'd have to tell you (do you believe that this is realistic).   More states need to take the initiative and act, just as lawmakers in Nevada have.  Take a look.  

https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/politics-and-government/nevada/new-nevada-laws-tackle-day-care-womens-health-issues/

RWJF: Commission to Build a Healthier America

Identifying the needs of the children in our country is important.  Acting upon those identified needs is critical!  What are you doing to help build a healthier America?  Every ounce of help is necessary.  Take a peek.  

https://www.rwjf.org/content/rwjf/en/library/research/2014/01/recommendations-from-the-rwjf-commission-to-build-a-healthier-am.html

The Autism School in Baton Rouge

Take a look at this inspirational story about a school in Baton Rouge.  I've often pondered if opening a school 'specializing in a certain area of ability' versus inclusion is best for children that may have additional needs from traditional programs.  This school in Baton Rouge has helped so many children and has given so many families hope.  Take a peek.  

http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/education/article_02ecaf3a-e026-11e7-9c0a-ff96e8ded770.html

Asbestos in Children's Makeup

As though parents don't already have many worries about food and toys, a parent recently sent their child's make up kit to a local laboratory to be tested.  I urge parents to proceed with caution when using products that are used on their children's faces as well as products that are eaten and drank.  While there are some manufacturers that advertise authenticity and natural, read labels and be willing to hold manufacturers liable if they use ingredients that may cause illness, rash, or other serious consequences.  

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2017/12/31/what-was-asbestos-doing-in-childrens-makeup/#3f32fbee7c00

CHIP

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucejapsen/2017/12/31/half-of-u-s-kids-3-and-under-await-congress-on-childrens-health-funding/#22472abe74b0