Families
Families play an essential role in ensuring the educational success and well-being of a child in any situation.
Family is a child’s first and forever teacher
The first 5 years of a child’s life are the most influential. About 90% of a child’s brain development will be made during this time. As a family, you play an essential role in guiding these neural connections. You are the key and have the ability to give your child the best start they need in life. Let us help support you!
There are so many ways in everyday life to actively engage your child's mind.
Families should listen, engage, read and respond!
Listen: Truly listen to what they are saying or asking. Simply asking an open-ended question about what they are talking about or interested in will expand their learning.
Engage: If your child is taking an interest in a toy, situation or particular environment, use that as an opportunity to sit and talk with them about what they are experiencing.
Read: If you ever feel lost, the best thing to do is read, read and read some more! A parent reading to their child can be one of the highest predictors of success in a child’s educational journey.
Respond: The simple fact that a child knows that they are safe and loved is a major learning skill for them. Responding to their needs and worries, helps to secure their thoughts and emotions
Activities for families
The easiest way you can help develop your early learner is to be involved. Here are some places with ideas and activities you can do with your young one.
Resources for Educators and Parents
Child Care Helpline
Choosing child care is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child. In partnership with the South Dakota Department of Social Services, the South Dakota Early Childhood Enrichment (ECE) system and the Helpline Center, the Child Care Helpline is a resource and referral program serving all South Dakotans from families seeking care to child care providers.
