NEWS
New for 2010! The KIDS COUNT Data Book
The Annie E. Casey Foundation released the 21st Annual KIDS COUNT Data Book, profiling the well-being of America's chiidren on a state-by-state basis.
Chocolate Formula? "Say it Ain't So"
Jennifer Wernau with an article from the Los Angeles Times on the backlash in the blogosphere from introduction of chocolate and vanilla flavored toddler formula. Here's her follow-up article, as Mead Johnson has decided to stop making the chocolate version.
Day Care Kids More Apt to Be Risk-Takers?
Melissa Healy from the Los Angeles Times looks at a recent report from the Early Child Care Research Network that shows this to be the case. See the results of the study here.
Jean Tepperman on Child Development and ECE
As the year draws to a close, Jean Tepperman features a class at Solano Community College, where they are employing a wonderul appoach in preparing early childhood educators to teach science.
This month, Jean takes a timely look at the endangered CARES program. Timely, in that the First 5 Commission is meeting April 21st to revisit its various elements, including the "Teacher Signature Program". She urges you to contact the commission and let your voice be heard.
Jean reflects on the status of an 8 year old project from the Center for the Study of Public Policy (CSPP), Strengthening Families Through ECE. See how it's currently impacting California and what the future might hold.
In September, a new contributor. Jean Tepperman brought her extensive knowledge of ECE to the FCS Website. She weighed in on a critical time for the future of early education in California as the state tries to establish an ELQIS or Early Learning Quality Improvement System.
Essential CSEFEL Seminars
Various dates and locations throughout the State, September through November. These one-day seminars will introduce the Pyramid Model and promote social-emotional competence in California's young children. The events are free but pre-registration is required.
Successful Beginnings
Lisa Ledeboer, Mt. San Antonio College offers some timely exercises to start the new semester. No matter the discipline, here are a variety of activities to engage your students.
Two Important Studies on CD/ECE
National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) released their ranking of state child care center regulations and oversight, "We Can Do Better: 2009 Update"
The Rand Corporation released a final report in their "California Preschool Study" highlighting the importance of investing in early childhood education.
Alan Guttman's Dialogue
Alan Gutttman, a regular contibutor to our site, reflects on the state of Child Care in California. Offers his "Dis Position Paper". Part 1 of Alan Guttman's "If it Ain't Broke, Then Why Are We...?" takes a thorough look at the funding principles of Childcare in California. Part 2 provides solutions.