Discusses the problems arising from discriminating between childcare and early education. Suggests that children in every setting learn something that has implications for future learning. Funding and support for early education, intervention, or enrichment should build on the existing network of programs of all kinds, with the goal of helping…

Discusses the need for child caregivers to be aware of cultural differences as they relate to individual autonomy and the family. Relates ideas on teaching toddlers self-help skills so they can become independent, and shares a personal story illustrating connected, yet independent, family members. (TJQ)

Identifies some of the major issues associated with liability and exposure in caring for mildly ill children and highlights some recommended strategies for minimizing liability. Examines issues related to preventing the spread of disease, administering medications, emergency medical authorization, and confidentiality. (KB)

Discusses how infants and toddlers are affected by violence, and problems they may experience as a result of living in a violent environment. Also discusses the role of child caregivers in providing a safe haven, a stable environment, and consistency, and being effective primary caregivers. (DR)

Defines a high-maintenance parent as one requiring more from the child care organization than the average parent. Suggests six points for choosing response: take a positive nonjudgmental approach; see parent's view; focus on strengths; understand importance of communication and negotiation skills; be respectful; and respect boundaries of your own…

Examines how child caregivers can shape parents' expectations of child care through written and visual materials. Includes suggestions for writing notes to parents, focusing on characteristics of good parent notes. Provides excerpts from sample notes and lists nine sources of parent/program conflict, including biting and child aggression, outdoor…

While grieving is a process both children and adults experience, children do not grieve in straightforward ways. There is often a connection between feelings of loss and a child's misbehavior when those feelings are not processed. This article describes how to help children understand the concept of death and offers suggestions for helping them…

Examines the quality of infant and toddler care as a prerequisite for the emotional well-being of children. Offers suggestions on how day-care providers can work toward understanding and generously meeting infant needs: hold and mold; be a responsive reciprocal partner; enhance noticing skills; learn ages and stages; apply developmental theories;…

Offers caregivers of children recommendations on what to do when an infant or toddler bites another child; changes in the room environment that can reduce biting; dealing with biting when it becomes a frequent, expected occurrence; and maintaining positive relationships with parents. (AC)

The concepts, causes, and issues surrounding maternal guilt have significant implications for early childhood professionals. Child care providers can assist parents in choosing appropriate child care; promote positive communication and rapport with parents; reassure parents that maternal anxiety is normal; promote understanding of the concept of…

Describes normal aspects of sexuality during the early years, including masturbation and children's fanciful sexual ideas. Presents inappropriately mature sexual knowledge as a danger sign of abuse. Discusses whether and what teachers/caregivers should tell children about sexuality, and notes the importance of teaching staff about sexual identity…

Examines the possibilities of creating family-care centers. Suggests that in addition to focusing on the child's security, healthy development, and high quality of life, a family center focuses on the family's economical and psychological security, and the relationships that promote the psychological well-being of family members. Discusses the…

The University of New Mexico Child Care Center implemented a program for the care of infants and toddlers characterized by continuous care by primary caregivers. In addition to expected beneficial consequences for children, the program also produced two unexpected outcomes. Families developed a sense of community and mutual support, and teacher…

Discusses the importance of play for the development of young children. Defines constructive play and identifies the benefits of play for children. Describes the current play landscape as characterized by increasing "screen time," limited outdoor play time, increased violence exposure, overscheduling, and overfacilitating. Emphasizes…

Asserts that child caregivers must work to create and maintain a relationship with families. Provides suggestions for relationship building: (1) appreciating and liking a child; (2) building trust across cultures; (3) beliefs about child rearing; (4) beliefs about appropriate communication; and (5) sharing information with families. Concludes by…