Child Development and Education Head Start Program Philosophy The early education environment, whether in the home or in a school, should provide a rich variety of activities that will foster the child’s physical, developmental, social and emotional growth. Families are encouraged to be equal partners in their child’s learning and development. The potential for learning is greatest during the early years of a child’s life; therefore, learning opportunities should be provided to children at the earliest age possible. Curriculums used Creative Curriculum -Find more information here: The-Creative-Curriculum-for-Preschool-Touring-Guide Growing Great Kids -Find more PreK information here: Growing Great Kids™ For Preschoolers Growing Great Kids -Find more Infant/Toddler information here: GGK – Prenatal to 36 Months Assessment used Teaching Strategies Gold -Find more information here: Teaching Strategies GOLD School Readiness & Child Outcomes Head Start’s School Readiness Goals for Ages 0-5 Physical Development and Health Children will control small muscles for manipulation and exploring. Children will control large muscles for movement, navigation and balance. Children will learn and demonstrate appropriate self-health, nutrition and safety habits. Social and Emotional Development Children will develop healthy relationships and interactions with adults and peers. Children will participate cooperatively in groups, display self-regulation skills and internalize classroom rules, routines and directions. Approaches to Learning Children will use curiosity, engagement and persistence to extend their learning. Children will engage in diverse approaches to learning that reflects social and cultural contexts such as biology, family history, culture and individual learning styles. Children will learn and use words to describe what they are thinking and doing. Language and Literacy Children will listen to and understand language. (receptive) Children will use increasingly complex and varied vocabulary when speaking. (expressive) Children who are dual language learners will demonstrate progress in the ability to listen, understand and speak English and home language. Children will engage appropriately with stories and books and show an appreciation and knowledge of how print works. Cognition and General Knowledge Children will use math in everyday routines and experiences. Children will engage in exploring their environment through observation and manipulation to gain a better understanding of information and activities in their surroundings. Children will use their skills in remembering information and connecting new and known experiences and information. MVAC Head Start Child Outcomes – % of children meeting the target score for school readiness Fall 2018 Developmental Domain: 4 yr olds 3 yr olds Social Emotional 40% 45% Physical 53% 73% Language 37% 49% Cognitive 40% 58% Literacy 29% 26% Math 19% 18% Winter 2019 Developmental Domain: 4 yr olds 3 yr olds Social Emotional 69% 79% Physical 83% 95% Language 67% 70% Cognitive 68% 83% Literacy 51% 56% Math 39% 50% Spring 2019 Developmental Domain: 4 yr olds 3 yr olds Social Emotional 76% 78% Physical 86% 95% Language 77% 79% Cognitive 78% 83% Literacy 70% 87% Math 55% 63% Quick Links Support MVAC Programs Thrift Stores About Us Contact Programs Pregnant Women, Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers Employment & Training Energy Housing Transportation Finances Inquiries Office Locations Request Help Careers CareerForce Main Office Visit. 706 North Victory Drive, Mankato, MN 56001 Call. 1.800.767.7139 Email. lynn@mnvac.org Employee Login Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Site Map © 2021 Minnesota Valley Action Council. All rights reserved.