In this article, the author relates that similar to the time he bought his new computer, he had the opportunity to experience poor customer service when he and his wife signed their child up for a preschool program. They learned that the staff at the preschool didn't want parents looking over their shoulders and questioning their techniques. He…

In this article, the author presents the challenges faced by early childhood education in 29 countries, according to the World Forum National Representatives and Global Leaders for Young Children. The countries represented in these responses include: Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Egypt, Fiji, India, Iran, Iraq, Japan,…

In an effort to explore current trends in the area of early childhood teacher preparation, the author organized a "Higher Education Trend Watchers Panel" and surveyed them for their views on current developments. This article presents the panelists' views about the demands for AA and BA programs and other trends in early childhood teacher…

This article reports findings from a recent "Exchange" Insta-Poll on Early Childhood Wages in North America. This survey was conducted on the "Exchange" web site, www.ChildCareExchange.com, from April 14-30, 2004. Over 900 early childhood professionals from 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 10 Canadian provinces provided…

Explains how day-care centers weigh the factors of responsibility, training, experience and performance in developing salary schedules. Discusses simplicity, security, clarity, flexibility, liability, and relevance as factors in refining salary schedules. Provides two models of salary schedules, the traditional approach and the performance-based…

Discusses several reasons--societal attitudes, low pay, director attitudes, suspicion, unequal treatment, and isolation-- why so few men seek employment in the child care profession. Offers suggestions for recruiting and retaining men in child care settings. (TJQ)

Presents interview with Weikart, founder and president of High/Scope Foundation, on a multi-national study of the nature, quality, and effects of children's experiences prior to formal schooling. Discusses findings related to international similarities in children and parents, engagement levels, the impact of training on teachers, parent roles,…

Presents excerpts of interviews of leading trendwatchers who have studied or participated in early childhood and prekindergarten efforts in public schools. Provides an excerpt from the National Child Care Association's position statement on publicly funded pre-k child care programs in public schools. (BB)