Dear Early Childhood Families:

Welcome to a new way of learning at home.  You will find a wealth of learning activities/recommendations on the "Newsletter" and "Resources" pages.  I hope that you will find them to be valuable resources.  These resources will address such developmental skills as: cognition, language, social and emotional, self-help, fine and gross motor.  They will encourage active exploration, problem solving, social engagement, communication, self-concept and responsibility.  These resources are based on the following guiding principles.

           -Children learn best through active involvement with people, materials, events and ideas.

           -Consistent adult support and respect for children's choices, thoughts, and actions strenghen a child's self-esteem, feelings of responsibility, self-control and knowledge

           -Children learn best when immersed in a positive, consistent, and predictable routine

           -Children greatly benefit from a language enriched environment

Activities/recommendations:  The activities are enrichment ideas for you to modify in your home environement if you so choose.  Please note, however, that simply setting time aside to engage in play activities , while being present to talk and be with your child is time well spent.  Stay happy, healthy, and well.  

Please be sure to check in and contact me with any suggestions, questions, and/or concerns you may have.  

I wish each and every one a very safe and happy summer.

Thank you, Heather Blackwell

blackwellha@staffordschools.nete