Early Learning Blog
Family Support and Parent Education Programs help parents build their skills and confidence in providing a nurturing environment for their children.
These programs offer information, education, and support to families in the community, through: structured groups; child care (children’s programming provided while parents attend selected adult programs); as well as over-the-phone and drop-in support.
Early Childhood Development offers parents/caregivers opportunities and experiences to develop their child’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive growth.
Activities ranging from early literacy skills to socialization, as well as learning through play and music, help parents add to their knowledge base of skills. The Early Childhood Development Program is actively involved in preparing children birth through 6 for the wonderful learning journey ahead.
Family Futures Resource Network provides programs and services to families in the areas of parenting, early childhood development, family support, and accessing community resources. They offer free and low cost programs and services in a safe and welcoming environment. To learn about the various programs for families: Click Here
In early learning and child care curriculum is focused on the uniqueness of childhood, considering learning and care with broad holistic goals for children’s development and learning, highlighting the importance of play, relationships and family diversity. Alberta’s curriculum framework is broadly focused on the process of our work and the decisions that we make every day, rather than determining the content of children’s learning, as traditional ideas of curriculum often suggest. The content of children’s learning will continue to be developed using children’s interests and daily experiences.
To learn more: Click Here
Resilience
Key Concepts
Science tells us that some children develop resilience, or the ability to overcome serious hardship, while others do not. Understanding why some children do well despite adverse early experiences is crucial, because it can inform more effective policies and programs that help more children reach their full potential.
To read on key concepts on resilience: Click Here
Why positive, reciprocal interactions between caregivers and children can have enormous positive effects on children’s development and lay the groundwork for a prosperous future
Philip A Fisher, a senior fellow at the Center, presents at 2013 NBC News’ Education Nation Summit in New York City explain: Click Here
The future of any society depends on its ability to foster the healthy development of the next generation. Extensive research on the biology of stress now shows that healthy development can be derailed by excessive or prolonged activation of stress response systems in the body and brain. Such toxic stress can have damaging effects on learning, behavior, and health across the lifespan.
To read an article on Toxic stress by The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University Click Here:
Mornings can be hectic for young families with so much to juggle, including a healthy breakfast Children need complex carbohydrates, fiber and protein for their growing bodies.
Here are some energy-packed breakfast ideas your family will love.
Now that cannabis is legal in Canada, it is important for caregivers to arm themselves with information that can help to keep young children safe! Thankfully Alberta Health Services has recently published a newsletter to arm parents and caregivers with the information they need.
