Prerequisites
Participants should be familiar with the ECERS and other Keystone STARS CQI tools such as CLASS, PAS, and Good, Better Best.
Learning Objectives
Conference Students will be able to: 1. Discuss and recognize positive observation and interactions with children and families. 2. Examine and organize their understanding of culture and how positive interactions can lead to solid relationships with children and families. Students will be able to: 1. Review commonly used Keystone STARS CQI tools to determine areas where changes or improvements can be made in their programs. 2. Explain why these changes will enhance positive social and emotional development of children. 3. Discuss how these changes will also help them recognize and value cultural diversity.
Core Knowledge Competencies
K3.3 C2: Interpret the ways in which personal beliefs, values, and behaviors relative to cultural, racial, linguistic, and socio-economic differences relate to daily practices with children. K1.4 C2 Apply knowledge of brain development to facilitate children's learning, socio-emotional development, and self regulation. D1.5 C2 Adopt program practices that demonstrate knowledge of the domains of child development to meet the developmental needs of all children, including early childhood age, school-aged, children with special needs and diverse backgrounds. K2.1 C2 Arrange responsive learning environments (setting, space, resources, relationships and schedules) based on ages, abilities, home culture, and interests and needs of children that are linked to the PA Learning Standards. K2.13 C2 Implement guidance strategies involving both adults and children designed to facilitate and support child development of social-emotional skills. D2.15 C2 Communicate and document to staff and families the importance of making continuous quality improvement to instructional content, practices and materials as outlined in the PA Early Learning Standards and the Guiding Principles
Diversity/Inclusion
We will be looking at personal understanding of culture and how to avoid biases. Attention during discussions will focus on the need to consider all children and their developmental levels while also looking at family structures, cultures and any language barriers that may exist in their programs.