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Early childhood is a time of wonder.
It is a time of rapid growth and development in which young children begin to actively engage in discovering the wonders of the world around them.
As parents, caregivers and educational professionals, it is our role to consider how we can help support the healthy cognitive, social, emotional, physical and cultural development of the children in our lives.
Child development literature and research suggests that rich early learning environments benefit children, their families and their communities.
We know these benefits include not only improved academic outcomes but also economic savings to schools and communities.
We are committed to providing research based resources and information on ways you can support the healthy and holistic growth and development of the young child(ren) in your care.
Helping Children Grow & Learn
In the early years, children learn so much! Children are born eager to explore and learn about the world around them. School readiness also begins during this time. The development of intelligence and establishing the learning capacity happens during this time.
A new baby begins to learn the moment they enter the world! Infants and toddlers will learn early language and literacy skills from their relationships with the adults around them. Language is one of the first things parents teach their children. In some families, young children are learning two languages equally well.
Playing with your child is a great tool for learning. As you play and interact together follow the child's lead.
Literacy opportunities - Here are several tools to help parents encourage early reading and literacy:
- Home checklist for early literacy -web version (PDF version -2 pages)
- Reading and writing activities for the family
- Stories, songs and books
- Learning from simple toys and objects you have at home
- Checklist for a preschool classroom -web version (PDF version -2 pages)
- Infants learn language naturally -speaking to and communicating with infants
- Infants and toddlers - developing more than one language