Talking to Families about QUALITY

Why should early childhood professionals always talk about quality?

Those who understand the benefits of quality will want to tell others!

We want families to... Choose quality child care. Tell others about quality. Share quality success stories.

Focus on 5 Fast Facts of Quality 1.Well-Educated Teachers 2.Appropriate Class Sizes in Healthy, Safe Environments 3.Fun Learning Activities 4.Child Observation / Assessment 5.Family Engagement

Trained professionals with formal education in child development pay attention to how and what children are learning, and adjust activities accordingly. Children feel safe, comfortable, and are motivated to learn and do well in school. Well-Educated Teachers

Quality classrooms are kept at appropriate sizes where children get to know their teachers and each other better. Quality classrooms are kept clean and safe to provide a healthy environment for children. Appropriate Class Sizes in Healthy, Safe Environments

You can see children learning while having fun in a quality program! Activities are developmentally appropriate and are aligned with PA’s Early Learning Standards to help children grow mentally, physically, socially, and emotionally. Fun Learning Activities

Teachers at quality early learning programs are continuously observing and assessing each child’s progress in all areas of learning and development. Depending upon the observation, teachers may adjust a child’s activities to best support his or her individual learning style and ability. Child Observation / Assessment

Quality early learning programs talk with families about how their children are learning and suggest ways to help them learn at home. Family Engagement

Worksheet: “Show & Tell Role-Play” Top two questions from families Talk about quality and give examples Fifteen (15) minutes to prepare Three (3) minutes to present Debrief: evaluate and discuss Activity: Show & Tell

How does quality early learning benefit everyone?

Quality in child care and early learning programs matters because it helps create: »Successful Students »Successful Adults »Stronger Communities Quality Benefits Everyone

As students, children who received quality child care are: Ready to start school ready to learn. More likely to graduate high school and attend college or career training. Less likely to need special education or repeat a grade. Quality Benefits Everyone

As adults, those who received quality child care are: Less likely to commit crimes or need public assistance. More likely to have higher earnings and own a home. Quality Benefits Everyone

Every $1 invested in quality pre-k saves taxpayers up to $7. Schools save on special education. Lower costs for crime control and public assistance. Increased tax revenue from skilled employees earning higher salaries. Quality Benefits Everyone

All families care about quality, and all children deserve it!

Develop a quality pitch, no longer than 90 seconds, that encourages families to promote the benefits of quality to others. Activity: Promote Quality Pitch

What are some other opportunities for families to promote how quality benefits communities?

All children need quality early learning to succeed, but not all get it