Web Resources Part 2

What specific section(s) or information seemed particularly relevant to your current professional development?

The ZERO TO THREE policy agenda for the Administration and 113th Congress was relevant as it discusses school readiness for infants and toddlers. Too many infants and toddlers lack the key resources needed for a good start on the school readiness path. Zero to Three (2013) stated, “The solution: public policies that ensure children are ready for school and life by incorporating the infant-toddler years as an essential part of the birth-to-8 continuum. ZERO TO THREE applauded the President for making babies and toddlers a priority in his 2014 budget proposal, with a substantial investment in early learning. This matter is of high importance and one that much research has been placed on.  We need to start early with consistent, high-quality, evidence-based supports that match what parents need and help parents nurture the early development of their babies and toddlers.

Which ideas/statements/resources, either on the website or in an e-newsletter, did you find controversial or made you think about an issue in new ways?

Early experiences influence whether this important foundation will be strong or fragile. The early years thus present a prime opportunity to positively influence the course of a young child’s life. The best investment is in early childhood.

What information does the website or the e-newsletter contain that adds to your understanding of how economists, neuroscientists, or politicians support the early childhood field?

Supporting early development is a wise investment:
At the same time that science reveals the importance of development in the earliest years, program evaluation research is able to highlight effective strategies to improve the lives of at-risk children and their families. Strong relationships can help buffer children from the toxic stress that can undermine healthy brain development. Proven approaches—some beginning during the important prenatal period—can help diminish the gaps and promote stronger social-emotional foundations. “Economists estimate that for every dollar invested in early childhood programs, saving $3.73 to $17.07 can be expected in future expenditures, in part by reducing the occurrence of negative educational and life outcomes” (Zero to Three, 2013).

 What other new insights about issues and trends in the early childhood field did you gain from exploring the website or e-newsletter?

On this website, the video also shares that congressmen have joined in and signed the petition to support early learning, and the article from the president in support of early learning shows us how politicians have shown their support for the early childhood field.  This will aid the issue of poverty and many other issues.
The Policy of Zero to Three:
“The ZERO TO THREE (2013) Policy Center promotes good health, strong families, and positive early learning experiences for all infants and toddlers, with special emphasis on those who are the most vulnerable and in need. The Policy Center advances public policy solutions and investments for the health and development of very young children and their families. In doing so, the Policy Center synthesizes and disseminates knowledge, cultivates advocacy leadership, and engages policymakers.” This website is full of information pertaining to the importance of supporting children and families in helping get them off to a great start.

 

Reference:
Zero to Three (2013). Retrieved from http://www.zerotothree.org/