The science of child development and the core capabilities of adults point to a set of "design principles" that policymakers and practitioners in many different sectors can use to improve outcomes for children and families. That is, to be maximally effective, policies and services should: (1) support responsive relationships for children…

Dealing with homesick campers can be challenging. Camper encouragement and counselor planning before camp starts is helpful. Upon arrival, don't dwell on the campers' homesickness. Help the camper connect--with older campers, a counselor, or a potential bunk-mate--and avoid free time. The first night is often the most difficult time; consult with…

Discusses the best ways to deal with campers' homesickness and ways to prevent its onset. A definition of homesickness is given, and physical and behavioral characteristics of homesick campers are listed. Preventive measures include ice-breakers, establishing ground rules, and keeping campers busy. Setting goals with the camper and giving some…

Discusses how providing developmentally appropriate choices to toddlers can prevent conflicts during caregiving tasks and daily routines in child care settings. Emphasizes maintaining a balance between children's needs and adult issues of time and space. Notes the importance of examining one's feelings and values to increase awareness of one's…

This guide is designed to help caregivers prevent children from getting involved in drugs. It details six key prevention principles, including actions caregivers can take that can help their child make healthy choices. Each section includes language to use with children, activities to do, information about drugs, statistics about youth drug use,…

Defines crying as a baby's tool of communication and suggests an alphabet of ideas that assist in interpreting reasons and developing solutions for a crying infant. (BAC)

Accidents at camps increase when counselors become fatigued or complacent, or step out of their primary roles as supervisors and become participants. Horseplay, time in bunks, and sports activities are hotspots for injuries. Camps must teach counselors how to monitor fatigue and recognize when activities exceed campers' abilities. A video is…

Presents information on caring for infants in a child care setting. Suggestions include responding quickly to crying, setting the schedule to baby's pace, talking to the baby, using proper hand-washing procedures, checking the room daily for safety, going outdoors every day, and building partnerships with parents. Includes a sample form for…

Presents games for caregivers to use with infants to enhance brain development. Includes games that develop trust and security, language skills, and fine motor skills, as well as games that are fun or stimulate vision. Includes videotape references for parents and caregivers. (KB)

Noting that taking care of a child between 1 and 2 years old is an exciting experience, this book is a guide for parents who are faced with the challenges of living with a toddler. Each section focuses on a different topic or issue and includes suggestions for daily living, such as toilet training, dressing, and controlling temper tantrums. In the…

Teen risk-taking is normal, healthy developmental behavior. Teens act out their fantasies--good and bad--at camp because it is a safe place away from parents. Signs of unhealthy risk-taking, camp staff responses, and how the September 11 tragedy might affect risk-taking are discussed. Sidebars describe tips for understanding adolescent behavior…

Notes that the focus in early-childhood care has shifted to nurturing neurons, in keeping with research indicating that early social and emotional experiences are the seeds of human intelligence. Explores the elements of quality early care in preschool settings, highlighting sites across the country. (HTH)

Creativity is a process of thinking and doing; adults can encourage this important life skill in young children by encouraging them to embrace new ways of looking at things. This guide, part of the "Seeds for Success" series, provides advice for parents for encouraging creativity in children in a variety of areas by means of nearly 100 simple…

Noting that child care arrangements are one of the most important decisions parents face, this videotape discusses characteristics to look for when evaluating a day care facility, either home-based or center-based. The 10-minute videotape suggests that parents' look for a facility in which the child will be both happy and safe, then outlines areas…

Noting that the number of grandparent-led families is increasing in the United States and that raising one's grandchildren can and should be a positive experience, this book is designed as a handbook for both grandparents and the professionals who advise them. Chapter 1, "Parenting Again," provides a checklist for the parenting…