1. Early Childhood Education EAG/FCPS Back-to-School Community Night

2. ECE Team Cathy Nusbaum Coordinator of Early Childhood Education and the Judy Center for FCPS Erin Doolittle FCPS Pre-K Teacher, FCPS Teacher of the Year, State Finalist for Maryland Teacher of the Year Michele Baisey Teacher Specialist for Early Childhood Education for FCPS

3. ● Review data and research supporting the importance of ECE ● Identify ways you can prepare your child for school success ● Share resources and programs to support you and your child with school readiness Session Goals

4. ● The first 5 years are the most critical period of a child’s life - 90% of brain development occurs during this time ● Quality early childhood education can reduce the achievement gap ● Data conclusively shows that the early formation of cognitive and character skills provides the essential foundation of success in school, college, career and life. ● Early childhood education builds character ● Research shows a direct correlation between effective early childhood education that includes health and better adult health outcomes ● Quality early childhood education benefits children from diverse family backgrounds and circumstances Research Says...

5. Maryland College and Career Ready Standards Increased rigor and expectation Technology Full day Kindergarten Access to Pre-Kindergarten Changes to ECE Experiences

6. Building Independence: ● Completing simple tasks by following directions ● Cleaning up and putting away toys/clothes ● Putting on/taking off & zipping coats ● Tying shoes ● Using the restroom ● Opening food items/containers Supporting Your Child

7. Preparing for Academic Success: ● Personal and Social Development ● Writing and Fine Motor Development ● Reading ● Letters and Letter Sounds ● Math Supporting Your Child

8. Be an active member of the school community: Participate in Home/School Visits Attend Back-to-School night & other school sponsored events Attend conferences Review your child’s report card & progress report Communicate regarding your questions, concerns and needs for your child Supporting Your Child

9. ● Judy Center Judy Center ● Pre-Kindergarten Pre-Kindergarten ● Special Education Services Special Education Services o Special Education Pre-Kindergarten o Inclusive Pre-Kindergarten o Child Find ● Kiddee Kollege ● Fitting the Pieces Together Fitting the Pieces Together FCPS Resources & Programs

10. ● Frederick County Public Library Frederick County Public Library ● Infants & Toddlers Infants & Toddlers ● Child Care Choices Child Care Choices ● Pre-Kindergarten Expansion Sites o Children’s Center at FCC o Monocacy Montessori Communities o The Learning Bee Community Resources & Programs