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Learn more about our communities of practice for early educators, facilitated by our early educator coaches. Community of Practice: Play-Based Learning A community of practice is a group of people combining individual and diverse strengths to achieve more together than they can individually. It’s somewhere for you to learn, collaborate and exchange ideas and experiences. Each community of practice, led by an early educator coach , will meet once a month for four months. Communities of practice are free to attend limited to a small group of participants And provide a certificate of in-service hours/CEUs hands-on learning experiences Register today! Childcare Resources is hosting a Community of Practice exploring the foundations of play-based learning. Join Coach Amanda Gooch as she facilitates this special session designed for early childhood educators of Indian River County! Please note: Learning to Play, Playing to Learn Workshop registration and attendance are required in order to register for this opportunity. Schedule Wednesday, December 3 6:00 - 7:30 PM Wednesday, December 10 6:00 - 7:30 PM Wednesday, December 17 6:00 - 7:30 PM Learning Showcase: March 17, 2026 Register Today! View Flyer Click here to register for the November 15th workshop!

Childcare Resources Early Education Coach activity videos. Coaching Videos Handwashing Dancing Raisins Fireworks

Stories and testimonials highlighting successes from Childcare Resources of Indian River's clients. Celebrating Success We are so proud of the students, families, and educators that participate in our programs. Join us in celebrating the stories of: students like Calix , Naomi , and Gianna program parents like Alison , Maileigh and Abby educators like Gladys and Kayte the Childcare Resources school and school classrooms like the Ducklings Meet Alison & Sierra When her daughter was an infant, Alison realized that something needed to change. “I was a single mother struggling to find employment that would provide Sierra and I with what we needed,“ says Alison. After learning about the early education program offered by Childcare Resources, Alison quickly enrolled Sierra when she was nine months old. “Childcare Resources helped Sierra come out of her shell,” says Alison. During Sierra’s time at Childcare Resources, Alison made the decision to go back to school in addition to working full-time, earning an Associate’s Degree in General Education. In 2018, Sierra graduated from the Childcare Resources School and moved on to kindergarten. Alison also graduated that same summer, having earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Today, Alison is a Certified Child Welfare case worker and works in the adoption unit of a statewide nonprofit. Sierra recently started fifth grade at a local elementary school, where she is thriving. “During her last school year, Sierra received awards for improving on math and reading skills almost each quarter,“ says Alison. “Sierra also plays softball and recently participated in the county-wide track meet.“ “Without you, I would not have been able to fully support myself and Sierra. I would not have pushed myself to go back to school at all,“ continues Alison. “Childcare Resources helped Sierra grow into the smart, independent, and loving child she is today.“ Alison in 2018. View Transcript "Without you, I would not have been able to fully support myself and Sierra. I would not have pushed myself to go back to school at all." -Alison Alison, a program parent Meet Gladys Local early childhood education center director Gladys Williams has long been committed to furthering her knowledge and education. Attending Childcare Resources’ director networking meetings and professional development workshops, Gladys has worked hard to better serve the children, families, and educators she supports. When she first heard about the Childcare Resources Higher Education Program , it was the clear next step she had been waiting for. “Being a part of the Higher Education Program was an experience of excellence,” says Gladys. “Networking with students gave me strength and encouragement in my craft.” This past spring, Gladys graduated from Indian River State College, having earned her Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with the help of Higher Education Program staff. Says Gladys, “I am excited to remain involved with the program to further my education and capabilities.” "Being a part of the Higher Education Program was an experience of excellence." -Gladys Gladys, a local center director NAEYC Accreditation This spring, the Childcare Resources School successfully renewed its accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) . From the earliest days of placing students in partnering schools, the focus of Childcare Resources has been on the high level of quality that NAEYC accreditation indicates. “One of the main missions of Childcare Resources was to have quality preschool, and we felt the best way to provide for that quality was for our schools to be accredited with national accreditation, which was NAEYC,” says co-founder Sherry Waddell. “The priorities that I felt were very important were teacher-child ratio, parent involvement, and the curriculum.” Through the generosity of donors like you, Childcare Resources has flourished and grown, establishing our own preschool more than a decade ago. Through your continued support, the Childcare Resources School first earned accreditation through NAEYC in 2013 and successfully renewed in 2018. “Renewing our accreditation affirms so many things about our school and staff,” says Tara Beard, Childcare Resources School Director. “It indicates that we use a developmentally-appropriate curriculum, employ well-trained teachers, use quality materials, and provide a healthy classroom environment.” By renewing NAEYC accreditation, the Childcare Resources School joins an elite group of fewer than 6,000 preschools nationwide that obtain this accolade. “NAEYC-Accredited programs have committed to a process that takes time, energy and dedication to complete,” states Alissa Mwenelupembe, NAEYC Senior Director Early Learning Program Accreditation. “Childcare Resources has demonstrated their commitment to young children and their families.” The Childcare Resources School renewed national accreditation for third five-year term. NAEYC accreditation renewal Meet the Ducklings the Ducklings Meet Calix Calix in 2021. View Transcript Calix, a current student Meet Maileigh Almost a decade ago, Maileigh was in desperate need of childcare. She was a full-time student, finishing a Licensed Practical Nursing program, and she needed a place for her four-month-old daughter, Ava. When she discovered Childcare Resources, Maileigh was excited to enroll in a high-quality year-round program. “It’s wonderful to have staff that I trust to leave my children with daily,” says Maileigh. “They are like an extension of my family.” During her time at Childcare Resources, Ava flourished. When Ava’s younger brother, Avery, was born in 2019, Maileigh was able to enroll him at the school.In addition to childcare, Avery has benefited from physical, occupational, and speech therapies. “Childcare Resources has provided the support I needed to be sure my children’s developmental needs are met,” says Maileigh. While her children succeeded at Childcare Resources, Maileigh began to thrive in her career. “Shortly after I enrolled Ava, I started working as an LPN PRN,” says Maileigh. “In 2022, I graduated with my Associate’s in Nursing. I hope to graduate with my Bachelor’s in 2025.” Today, Ava is in third grade, excelling in both reading and math. Avery is still a student at the Childcare Resources School and will move to kindergarten in 2024. “My children have received a phenomenal start to their education,“ says Maileigh. “I wouldn’t have been able to pursue my career goals and continue my education if it wasn’t for you.” “My children have received a phenomenal start to their education. I wouldn't have been able to pursue my career goals and continue my education if it wasn't for you.“ - Maileigh Maileigh in 2017. View Transcript Maileigh, a program parent Meet Kayte When Kayte first applied for a substitute teaching position at Learning Nest, she didn’t know that she had found her new career. As a new teacher looking for support, Kayte quickly found Childcare Resources’ outreach programs. She began attending the professional development workshops and working with one of the early education coaches. When she learned that Childcare Resources also offered the opportunity to earn credentials and degrees in early childhood education, Kayte enrolled in classes right away. “I was a young mom, and school seemed out of the question for me many years ago,” says Kayte. With assistance from Childcare Resources staff, Kayte became eligible for incentives, receiving tuition reimbursement and paid time off to attend school. She was even able to purchase a laptop to help with her studies, her first time purchasing such a luxury. “In three years, I was able to earn my CDA staff credential, my Director’s Credential, and just recently I earned my Associate’s Degree,“ says Kayte. “I finally graduated doing something I love. Thank you for the help you give to everyone that wants to pursue their dream.” Kayte has since been promoted to Director of Tiny Treasures, Learning Nest’s sister school. “Kayte is a great asset to our school,“ says Rachna Handa, owner of Learning Nest and Tiny Treasures. “She has set new standards for everyone on our team.” “Thank you for the help you give to everyone that wants to pursue their dream.“ -Kayte Kayte, a local educator Meet Abby & Olivia Abby enrolled her infant daughter Olivia into the Childcare Resources School after separating from her partner. With affordable childcare made possible by supporters like you, Abby was able to attend college full-time while Olivia received high-quality childcare. We were able to provide referrals to Abby and her partner to receive counseling regarding family struggles, helping to resolve those issues, and they have since married. Olivia was able to receive therapeutic intervention in Childcare Resources onsite therapy rooms, while her parents focused on school and work. This past summer, Abby graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is now employed as a teacher in our community. In August, Olivia graduated with the necessary foundation to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Olivia has also been able to continue her important therapeutic services on our campus after school. With your investment, Olivia was able to receive high-quality childcare, therapeutic interventions, and build the needed foundation to ensure a bright future. You also allowed for Abby to achieve her career goals, become a homeowner and build a thriving family in our community. “I wish every parent and child could experience the benefits of what quality early education does. These are the most transformational years- they set the tone for a lifetime. I’m so thankful my daughter was able to attend Childcare Resources. Thank you to everyone who made this possible” - Abby, Program Parent since 2017 Abby, a program parent Meet Naomi Naomi is just one of our amazing 2022 graduates! While that means the end of her time at the Childcare Resources School, it means she is beginning her journey into elementary school and beyond. Because of your support, Naomi has been able to attend our high-quality early childhood education program since she was just seven months old. Naomi excels at meeting all of her developmental milestones and we can’t wait to learn about her future successes! From her infant class with Ms. Kathy, through her one-year-old class with Ms. Colleen, twos with Ms. Fio, threes with Ms. Sadie, and finally her four-year-old VPK class with Ms. Marilyn, Naomi has been provided with high-quality learning experiences. These experiences culminated in Naomi exceeding expectations and being ready to begin kindergarten with a solid foundation prepared to take on any future challenge with confidence. “Childcare Resources provided me with the stability I needed to advance in my career. I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing. I expect to graduate in April 2023. From the school staff to the class families, I have received so much encouragement and support. This support has carried me through many difficult times and I could not be more appreciative. Childcare Resources helped my child find a home away from home. We love the staff and the families we have grown to know over the last five years.” -Kayeshia, Naomi’s mother Naomi, a graduate Meet Gianna Gianna began in the Childcare Resources (CCR) program when she was around 9 weeks old. From a physical standpoint, during her time at CCR, Gianna learned to crawl, walk, and run—developing fine and gross motor skills that help her both hold a pencil for writing and pedal a bicycle. From a less visible but equally important mental standpoint, Gianna’s brain built millions of synaptic connections, with nearly 85% of brain development happening before the age of five. During these first years, Gianna learned how to communicate with the big world around her through language. She practiced letters and sounds with teacher-led activities and learning experiences during her days at the CCR School. While Gianna was in school, so was her mother, Victoria. The affordable high-quality childcare provided by CCR allowed Victoria to work full-time and attend school part-time, and, as a result, she gained skills that helped her advance in her career. Victoria is now pursuing her Bachelor's in Organizational Management. “Childcare Resources helped me achieve my personal and professional goals. It has also allowed my daughter to learn and grow in many aspects of her childhood. As a result, Childcare Resources has greatly benefited both of us.” -Victoria Gianna, a graduate Introduction Alison, a program parent Gladys, a local center director NAEYC accreditation renewal the Ducklings Calix, a current student Maileigh, a program parent Kayte, a local educator Abby, a program parent Naomi, a graduate Gianna, a graduate

Register for the next Community of Practice for early childhood educators. Apply for the Center Director Community of Practice

Learn more about our wellness services for program students and families. Wellness Childcare Resources offers a spectrum of wellness services for program families. Our Wellness Program features Parent Cafes and other parent engagement opportunities in an effort to bolster the success of those in our program. We partner with a variety of local therapy providers. Our on-site therapy rooms enable students to participate in therapy with the least disruption to their school day. Childcare Resources maintains collaborative relationships with several local organizations, including the Mental Health Association and Tykes & Teens , to provide mental health referrals and services for our program families, as needed. We strive to ensure that the children in our program have the opportunity for Early Intervention services and that those needs are met to allow them to achieve the optimal level of learning and success. Social and Emotional learning is at the top of our priority list in an effort to foster the skills of resiliency and help build on those skills that will last a lifetime. View Brochure (PDF)

Apply to earn your next early education credential. Credentialing Registration To apply to the Credentialing Program, please complete the application below. If you have any questions or need to speak with someone regarding your application, please contact the Higher Education Program: 772-567-3202 ext. 114

< Back Meet Kayte When Kayte first applied for a substitute teaching position at Learning Nest, she didn’t know that she had found her new career. As a new teacher looking for support, Kayte quickly found Childcare Resources’ outreach programs. She began attending the professional development workshops and working with one of the early education coaches. When she learned that Childcare Resources also offered the opportunity to earn credentials and degrees in early childhood education, Kayte enrolled in classes right away. “I was a young mom, and school seemed out of the question for me many years ago ,” says Kayte. With assistance from Childcare Resources staff, Kayte became eligible for incentives, receiving tuition reimbursement and paid time off to attend school. She was even able to purchase a laptop to help with her studies, her first time purchasing such a luxury. “In three years, I was able to earn my CDA staff credential, my Director’s Credential, and just recently I earned my Associate’s Degree,“ says Kayte. “I finally graduated doing something I love. Thank you for the help you give to everyone that wants to pursue their dream.” Kayte has since been promoted to Director of Tiny Treasures, Learning Nest’s sister school. “Kayte is a great asset to our school,“ says Rachna Handa, owner of Learning Nest and Tiny Treasures. “She has set new standards for everyone on our team.” Previous Next

About the Program At Childcare Resources, we believe data should be used to guide how programs are developed and implemented. We utilize both quantitative and qualitative information in order to provide evidence-based programs that help children, families, and early educators in our community achieve greater results. This in turn positively impacts lives across Indian River County and beyond. This is the snapshot of impact from the 2022-2023 fiscal year that you made possible: 3,921 children impacted by our whole child development model

Are you interested in volunteering? Learn more about the opportunities we offer for interested volunteers. Volunteer You have the opportunity to make an impact in your community! Because of the help of people like you, more children in Indian River County have access to high-quality early education. To become a volunteer, please contact Sadie Collet . To complete the full application process, you will need the following: Driver's License/Identification Card Fingerprinting Appointment Social Security Number (needed for fingerprinting) Founders Award Childcare Resources recognizes volunteers with a history of outstanding service and dedication to Childcare Resources, to its mission, and to early childhood education as a whole through the presentation of the Founders Award. To learn more, or to suggest someone you feel should be recognized, please visit the Founders Award page . Thank you, Volunteers!

Photos: Florida Chamber Photos: CCR School Photos: Starfest 2025 Photos: Educator Outreach Videos Media Gallery Photos: Florida Chamber Photos: CCR School Photos: Starfest 2025 Photos: Educator Outreach Videos Photos: Florida Chamber Florida Chamber Foundation at Windsor Beach Club Photos: CCR School The 2024-2025 School Year at Childcare Resources Photos: Starfest 2025 Starfest 2025 Photos: Educator Outreach Educator Outreach 2024-2025 Program Videos 2023 TRANSCRIPT 2021 TRANSCRIPT 2019 TRANSCRIPT 2018 TRANSCRIPT 2017 TRANSCRIPT

Michele , Director, Finance and Human Resources at Childcare Resources of Indian River Michele Harr Director, Finance and Human Resources Grant Budgets | Facility Maintenance | Employment Joined Childcare Resources in 2014 Contact 772-567-3202 ext. 103 Back

What is a “quality learning program” and what does it look like in an early childhood setting? Coach's Column Susan Roberts March 1, 2021 What is a “quality learning program” and what does it look like in an early childhood setting? Is the definition of quality different for a director, a teacher, or anyone else at your center? Or do you all have a common vision of what you feel your center should be like for children and families? These are questions that we will delve into during the next workshop, Pathway to Quality on Saturday March 13th. Our presenter, Judy Jablon from Leading for Children will present the three elements of high-quality early childhood programs and how they work together to improve outcomes for all children. The three elements are: Relationships and Interactions Emotional and Physical Environment Learning Experiences Here are two scenarios. Both of these classrooms have good activities happening. In which do you think quality learning is taking place? Which part of Classroom A or B do you feel are or are not quality learning? Both classrooms are safe and clean. They both have two attentive and caring teachers and children of the same age. Classroom A One teacher is standing to the side supervising children sitting at tables. The tables have puzzles, matching games, books and a collection of plastic trees and animals found in the forest. The table activities are related to the theme of the week: trees. The second teacher is helping children glue precut paper roots, trunks, and leaves to make a tree. The classroom is calm and quiet. The children raise their hand and ask to go to another group when they have completed their table activity. The same activities will be repeated tomorrow so all children have a chance to experience every activity related to the theme. Classroom B One teacher is sitting on the floor talking to a group of children gathered around items they picked up from the playground. Sticks, pieces of wood, rocks and leaves are scattered on the floor. Some children start sorting the items into groups. Others start to sort the groups by color, shape, and length. The teacher notices and asks them what they are doing and why. Another child gets up to get a magnifying glass. The second teacher starts to make a design with the leaves, sticks and rocks, talking about what she is doing. Children add to her design or start their own. One has made a tree out of the sticks and leaves. The classroom has a steady sound of conversation and children are calm. Tomorrow the children will take their mats outside to look up through the tree branches to the sky. They will also “feel” the tree and make bark rubbings. Think about these classrooms in terms of the three elements of high-quality early learning programs. Think about the learning experiences in your classroom. During our next newsletter we will reflect further into what a shared vision of quality looks like, how it is reflected in your center, and how it can improve your center. Until then! Susan Back to Coaching Back to Newsletters