Recorded presentation

Laura Ensler, MSEd, Carmen Ayala, MSEd, Shana Hewitt, BA, and David A. Jones, CSW. Early Steps Family Center, Visiting Nurse Service of New York, 86-01 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Far Rockaway, NY 11693, 718-318-8040, laura.ensler@vnsny.org

Introduction: Effective childcare settings must develop strength-based, relationship-oriented program services to support social-emotional development of children – the cornerstone of healthy growth and development. This presentation will outline successful strategies for responsive care crucial for both physical survival and healthy social emotional wellness of young children.

Methods: Children (n = 32) enrolled in an Early Head Start Program with a center-based service component for ages 0 to 3 years were enrolled in a demonstration study. Developmental profile data were gathered by trained staff using the Ounce Scale and the Developmental Observation Checklist System assessment tools. Both qualitative and quantitative data were captured and analyzed.

Results: The findings revealed that utilization of standardized, early childhood developmental assessment tools enhanced staff’s knowledge and skill levels. Moreover, empirical data provided through use of observational assessments provided necessary information to develop targeted strategies for tailored care provision. During the demonstration study period, a significantly larger proportion of vulnerable children were linked with early intervention services. In addition, interactions between staff and parents were enhanced through their understanding of a child’s developing capacity to experience and regulate emotions, form secure attachments, and explore and learn. Furthermore, staff and parents learned to nurture their supportive relationships with children.

Conclusions: Early childhood programs that make relationship building essential support the healthy social-emotional development of children. Use of age-specific standardized observational assessments help service providers build stronger relationships with children and their families.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, participants will:

1. Recognize a strength-based, relationship oriented program service. 2. Learn to assess social-emotional behavior in very young children. 3. Develop ability to base care plans and services on assessments that encourages child’s emotional wellness.

Learning Objectives:

• 2. 1. Recognize a strength-based, relationship oriented program service.
  4. 2. Learn to assess social-emotional behavior in very young children.
  6. 3. Develop ability to base care plans and services on assessments that encourages child’s emotional wellness.

Keywords: Child Care, Mental Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation