This paper argues that in daycare centres in France, where children are cared for from four months to age three, the competence of female staff members is usually denied and unvalued vis a vis the expert opinions. The paper highlights empirical research on early childhood and gender, providing pragmatic access to children's languages of desire, a…

The Child Development Associate formula for certifying entry-level care providers, a blend of the two competencies that dovetails with parental initiative, is a valuable legacy of Head Start. Based on a demonstrated proficiency at working with young children, the credential offers a comprehensive model for developing high quality caregivers.…

Maintains that caregiver language provides significant insight into caregiving behavior in general. Responsive language, which encourages reason, logic, independence, and encouragement, is preferred over restrictive language, which is based on asserting power and control, discouraging independence, and lecturing. (MDM)

Divorce is viewed as a national tragedy, particularly for its impact on young children, who lacked any control over the situation yet were most susceptible to its emotional pain and uncertainty. Children lost the security of a home, predictable routines, and loving family members. Innocent lives were transformed forever, often for the worse.…

Provides an overview of a special issue in which educators and child care advocates consider the modern child from the following diverse perspectives: (1) philosophical, (2) pedagogical, (3) clinical, and (4) public and social policy. (LHW)

Discusses techniques that child care workers can utilize to foster the development of coping skills in young children. Emphasizes the difference between psychological immunity to stress based on problem-solving abilities and pseudo-immunity created by overprotectiveness. Holds that challenges build children's competence and self-esteem.…

Discusses the historical context for the evolution of the Child Development Associate (CDA). Describes the CDA's contributions to the early childhood profession, and discusses its impact on programs and individuals. Speculates about the future of CDA credentialing, including the need for professionalism and new specializations. Notes that the CDA…

Fingerplays are enjoyable and versatile additions to program activities and can provide an informal opportunity to practice manipulative and coordination skills. As an instructional supplement in a variety of content areas, this form of dramatic play fosters the development of intellectual and language skills. Caregivers of young children often…

Describes a personal evolution into early childhood advocacy. The case study reaffirms that becoming an early childhood advocate requires individuals to care and to translate that care into actions which will help others to care. (RJC)

Maintains that by focusing on natural strategies to facilitate language interaction, adults can become instrumental in expanding the foundations of literacy of young children. Strategies include planning stimulating learning experiences utilizing contextual cues; encouraging personalized development of child language events; anticipating and…

Presents five perspectives used by early childhood educators to resolve problems: personal, legal, employment, social theory, and professional ethics. Included is the National Association for the Education of Young Children's 1985 public policy survey on professional ethics. (AS)

Expresses concern that objectives for early childhood education and child care are not being met because specialized services for children have become more and more divided from each other. (Author/DB)

Notes that caregivers need to create an atmosphere that reflects their experiences with children and knowledge of child development. A productive partnership with families improves the quality of care through shared commitment and positive outcomes. Suggests ways caregivers can develop a productive partnership with families, including newsletters,…

Illustrates how child caregivers and preschool teachers have positively affected the lives of young children. Cites two examples in which teachers helped children who needed meals and who needed a haven from a violent home. (BB)

Notes that the most comforting finding in Mill and Romano- White's study was the high level of affectionate caregiver behaviors in early childhood settings. Suggests that a broader definition of anger might yield different results. Argues that the lack of a relationship between caregivers' self-esteem and angry or affectionate behavior contradicts…