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The human brain undergoes its most rapid development in the first three years of life. Children need quality care and education in the first years of life to develop to their full potential. School age chldren need to continue to be in a safe environment that supports their educational goals, promotes independence and stimulates creativity.
Benefits of Early Learning Programs
- Children who participate in early learning programs tend to be more successful later in school
- Children are more competent socially and emotionally
- Children show higher veral and intellectual development during early childhood that children who do not participate in early learning programs
Characteristics of Quality
- Small group sizes and child-to-adult ratios
- Caregivers/teachers have experience and education in early childhood
- Learning materials and teaching styles that are age-appropriate and respectful of children's cultural and ethnic heritage
- Opportunities for parent and community involvement
- Learning opportunities that promote your child's success in school
Keystone Stars
- Keystone STARS is a voluntary continuous quality improvement program
- Each STAR has its own research-based performance standards
- These standards measure four areas that make a difference in the quality of care your child receives
- Education and training of staff
- Environment
- Leadership and management of the program
- Family and community partnerships
- As a programs moves from STAR 1 to STAR 4, the requirments in these areas increase
- Centre County has quality child care providers at every level and some providers are choosing not to participate. Just because a program is choosing not to participate in Keystone STARS does not mean they are not providing quality child care.
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