ELF Blog
Is It a Masterpiece or a Scribble?
Share this interesting article from Zero to Three with your families, A Scribble or a Masterpiece? How Your Child's Writing and Art Change Over Time at http://www.zerotothree.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ter_key_language_writingart In a very concise manner, this article presents the stages of drawing and writing that most children experience and the purpose of each stage. In addition, it describes the development that occurs, as well as the importance of creativity and the role each parent can play in allowing their child the freedom to explore, have fun and learn without instructions.
Focus on Fathering Curriculum
The Parents as Teachers National Center has developed a new resource for use in creating programming for fathers called Focus on Fathering. This free curriculum was funded through the Missouri Office of Head Start. It's available at http://www.parentsasteachers.org/site/pp.aspx?c=ekIRLcMZJxE&b=4134049&tr=y&auid=3788730 . Some of the topics addressed are child development, reading with your child, connecting with your child, parenting when you are apart, discipline and more. Each unit provides parent materials, guideines for the faciltator, activities and information on the topic.
Early Experiences that Shape the Brain's Architecture
The Timing and Quality of Early Experiences Combine to Shape Brain Architecture is a twelve-page report recently published by the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child. In the report, they identify factors that shape the brain during the early years including genetics, environment and experiences; address misconceptions about development such as the "Mozart Effect;" and explain where gaps exist between science and policy. You can obtain the report firsthand at www.developingchild.net/pubs/wp/Timing_Quality_Early_Experiences.pdf
Baby Basics Resources
The What to Expect Foundation has created materials for expectant mothers through their Baby Basics Program. Books are written at a lower readability level without talking down to the reader, or compromising the content and attactive appearance of the materials. The books are available in English, Spanish and Chinese and the accompanying planner can be ordered in any of 14 languages. Information about the Baby Basics Program and materials can be accessed at www.whattoexpect.org/baby_basics .
The What to Expect Guide on Immunizations is a new publication that guides parents in planning their child's immunization schedule as well as explaining the types of immunizations needed and their purpose. It can be downloaded free of charge from www.whattoexpect.org/resources/WhattoExpect_Guideto_Immunizations.pdf . It is also available in Spanish at www.whattoexpect.org/resources/WhattoExpect_Guideto_Immunizations_Spanish.pdf
Grant Available for Children's Books - Due Date 9/15/08
The Lois Lenski Covey Foundation founded by Lois Lenski the children's book author, annually awards grants to purchase books for preschool children through grade 12. Public Libraries are eligible for these grants that range from $500 to $3,000 with priority given to institutions that serve at-risk children, have limited budgets and exhibit a real need. An application and more information is available at www.loislenskicovey.org/index.html . The application submission deadline is September 15, 2008
