Background Information on Brain Development and Early Literacy
Books, Videos, and Websites
Advocacy...
Eager to Learn: Educating Our Preschoolers. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2001.
Explores the question, "What will it take to provide better early education and care for our children ages two to five?" Synthesizes current research findings on how young children learn and the impact of early learning. Presents recommendations in areas such as the teacher-child relationship, the organization and content of curriculum, meeting the needs of those children most at risk of school failure, teacher preparation, assessment of teaching and learning.
An independent cost-benefit analysis published by Rand Corporation on the impact of early childhood intervention on child health and development, educational attainment, and economic well-being.
Early Child Development (including The ABC’s of ECD)
Benefits and costs of investing in early childhood development. Designed to assist policy makers, program managers, and practitioners in their efforts to promote the healthy growth and integral development of young children. Includes information on program design, statistics. Sponsored by World Bank’s Early Child Development team.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Nation’s largest organization of early childhood educators and others dedicated to advocating for and improving the quality of programs for children birth through grade three. Publishes research and practical applications on a variety of aspects of early childhood education. Subscriptions to Young Children and Early Childhood Research Quarterly through membership. Has local chapters.
Early Childhood Resource Center, Research Triangle InstituteThe Benton Foundation provides information for adults to advocate for children in their communities. Topics include Child Care and Early Development, Parenting, and Education. Describes model local programs under each topic. Some national statistics included.
Staff assists practitioners and policy makers to plan and implement parent focused programs to improve the lives of the youngest children by providing up to date researched based resources, curriculum, training and technical assistance.