The early childhood educators that work at these participating sites, including family child care homes, private centers and state preschools, are choosing to grow their quality. Working in early care, they understand the importance of the first five years of a child’s life and the long-term impact quality early learning has.
Why quality matters
Research has shown that a child’s brain develops most rapidly from birth through age five, and that the experiences a child has significantly impacts their school readiness and future success.
Relationships are one such impactful experience. The relationships a child has in their earliest years contributes to their overall wellbeing and their attitude towards learning. Early educators have the ability to instill confident attitudes toward learning in young children by shaping their social and emotional development, as well as their academic growth.
QSSB increases access to quality care by supporting early childhood educators. Educators receive the resources they need to grow their quality and to continue to develop positive and nurturing relationships with the children they serve. An educator’s commitment to quality contributes to the wellbeing of San Bernardino County’s children and families.
“The quality of early learning opportunities is critically important to a child’s long-term success in school and in life. When there is coordination between parents, early care and education providers and elementary schools, children experience a smoother transition and are better prepared to enter school,” said Cindy Faulkner, First 5’s Operations Manager.
How QSSB participants grow their quality
Participants are first assessed and rated. The results help their assigned coaches create personalized individual improvement plans. Providers are also given access to professional development opportunities, as well as financial incentives to better their site and curriculum.
We’re pleased to announce the 2016/2017 QSSB participants!