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Together we will gain an understanding of the key factors in investigating the root causes of success or fulfillment. Coach's Column Amanda Gooch February 1, 2024 Only two more days until literacy and early education advocate by day, and multi-platinum music star by night, Coy Bowles shares some pretty exciting things with us on Saturday, February 3rd. You are going to want to dust off your vocal cords as we sing and dance along with Coy when he presents “Connect to Your Calling.” Coy Bowles is probably best known as a guitarist, keyboardist, singer and songwriter for the three-time Grammy Award-winning Zac Brown Band. However, off stage, he is a teacher and parent blazing trails in the world of early education. With five highly-praised children's books under his belt, Coy recently released an activity kit based around his hit book, Behind the Little Red Door, an unforgettable story of imagination and creativity. Together we will gain an understanding of the key factors in investigating the root causes of success or fulfillment. Participants will recognize the importance of the “Butterfly Phase/Window of Opportunity” for child development and the implications of that for teaching and learning. We will recognize the importance of an emotional and social foundation for every student and reflect on how connecting to our calling and sharing our origin story is crucial in regaining clarity, passion and purpose for being an early childhood educator. This is a friendly reminder that each organization represented at the workshop has an opportunity to receive Coy Bowles’ “Behind the Little Red Door Activity Kit” presented by Lakeshore Learning. Those organizations that will be receiving the kit are committing to follow up technical assistance that will include early childhood education coaching. The kit recipients are expected to utilize, implement and share the tools and resources they acquired from attending the workshop with their colleagues or local community. Examples might include: Lunch and learn at a staff meeting, share in professional learning communities or write a blog post to share their kit story on Childcare Resources website or newsletter. Every recipient to the workshop will go home with some coveted Lakeshore swag and one of Coy Bowles newest books. Behind the Little Red Door Kit Wishing you the best, Amanda & Todd Back to Coaching Back to Newsletters

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

As teachers we are more than just employees, but rather a part of a family. Coach's Column Amanda Gooch April 1, 2023 It was incredible seeing those of you who were able to join us at Childcare Resources’ most recent professional development day featuring Rhonda Meyers of Heartfelt Impressions Learning Centers. For those of you that weren’t able to join us, our training focused on the importance of parent engagement and the Five Languages of Appreciation. So what are the Five Languages of Appreciation and what do they look like in the workplace? Languages of Appreciation are comprised of five individual and unique elements that demonstrate how positive work culture and appreciation can go a long way. It also shows us that people show and receive appreciation in different ways. You can improve your ability to convey appreciation by knowing your options. By knowing how to express appreciation and identifying who in your workplace responds well to what can help you tailor your approach and reap the rewards. As teachers we are more than just employees, but rather a part of a family that supports each other both personally and professionally. The language of workplace appreciation easily crosses over to parent engagement. Let’s talk about how these two elements are connected. Getting parents more engaged in school is a necessary variable in the equation of student success. In fact, parent engagement can have a direct impact on student engagement itself. Multiple studies (Henderson, A. & Berla, N.) prove that students whose parents are actively engaged in their schooling typically show greater social skills, better reported behavior and easier adaptation to school. Read more: https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED375968 To learn more from the National Education Association and how to help guide yourself and your school in making outreach decisions in order to increase parent engagement, please click on this link: https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/new-from-nea/eight-ps-parent-engagement As your Early Childhood Education Coach I am here to help you focus on parent engagement and work as a collaborative team to enhance your practice. By using the Five Languages of Appreciation we will also focus on ways in which to create parent conversations to enhance child specific strategies and skills. These elements of the home/school connection will become more valuable to us as we use them in engaging parents and providing learning opportunities for effective teaching with their children. When using the Five Languages of Appreciation in conjunction with parent engagement we are showing parents and their children that they are seen, valued, and connected. This in turn deepens a sense of meaning in all of our lives. Wishing you the best, Amanda Gooch Back to Coaching Back to Newsletters

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How many of us are willing to show grace to others? Knowing so many of you, I can say without hesitation, that you do this every day without even realizing it. Coach's Column Paulette Maggiacomo May 1, 2020 How many of us are willing to show grace to others? Knowing so many of you, I can say without hesitation, that you do this every day without even realizing it . As educators, it almost seems as if grace is in our DNA. Every day we show kindness and compassion to those in our care. But what about showing grace to yourself? Some of you Center Directors may know Nichole Parks with Leading for Children . Childcare Resources has been working with her this past year on a special Director Leadership Program. In her recent webinar, Nichole posed the question “Are you willing show grace to yourself?” During this pandemic, self-care is a priority and a necessity, it is not a luxury . When your child has a meltdown because they are missing the connection with their friends, when your spouse/partner becomes frustrated because they could not get on a Zoom meeting, when the dog is literally attached to your side and wants to go for another walk…..who is the person they turn to, the one they can depend on to show them grace? It is you. And you do it day after day, after day, after day. What about you? Who is showing you grace? Take the time each day to show kindness and compassion to yourself. Yes, you do have responsibilities as a wife, mother, daughter, friend, and neighbor, but you also have a responsibility to yourself. I realized, after listening to Nichole, that I need to commit to self-care. I need to take time every day to do something just for me. It is not selfish, it is a necessity. I am reminded of that commercial where the mother is in the bathroom eating her favorite cookies. Someone bangs on the door and yells her name. She lowers her voice and says, “It’s Dad.” She takes the much needed time to eat her cookie in peace and relax. Who knows, she may have only been in there for five minutes, but it was five minutes for herself. Nichole says it is about quality not quantity. So, take that time for you. Show yourself the grace that you give to others. I will end with my favorite quote from Nichole, “Make space for grace for you.” Back to Coaching Back to Newsletters

What does music do that will make a difference during these difficult times of stress and social isolation? Coach's Column Susan Roberts May 7, 2020 There is a lot of research on the impact of music for young children in the development of academic and social emotional skills. But what does music do that will make a difference during these difficult times of stress and social isolation? Music is a connector. It connects us to people, events and periods of time. Hearing certain songs may remind you of times in your life that were filled with emotion. Do you remember songs that were popular during high school? Songs that were sung to you as a child? Songs evoke feelings and memories. Songs, music and movement are also a release for feelings. I have seen the face of a child light up when a familiar song from school is sung by their teacher on Zoom. Greeting songs, circle songs, movements songs help bring back memories and feelings of community. Singing familiar songs, listening to favorite music, and moving to music used in your classroom connects the child to the experience of being “in school”. Encouraging Music at Home Children get a sense of comfort and routine from songs and music. Helping parents understand the use of songs and music at home will give them another tool to help their child. Many parents probably use songs at bedtime. The songs provide comfort, security, and a calming effect. Parents should be encouraged to use songs, music, movement and rhyme throughout the day. If Zooming with your class, review your clean up song and ask the children to share it with their parents. This can be used at home as a transition to lunch, outside time, and from unstructured play to a learning activity. Playing music to define lengths of time is helpful also. “When the song is done we will stop the video game and go outside.” Movement to songs such as Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes helps children practice following directions, and encourages listening skills, as well as learning body parts. Playing Freeze Dance helps children with listening and self regulation. Playing this at home helps children get out the wiggles! Unstructured musical activities are important as well. Have fun, be playful and creative. At home one of the best things to do with children is to have a dance party. Just put on some music and dance away! Scarves can be used to encourage movement of the arms and hands and more fluid movement. Some parents may find it difficult to be spontaneous. Children enjoy having their adults participate. They are not as judgmental and critical as other adults may be. And sharing these activities helps build a connection between parent and child. Back to Coaching Back to Newsletters

Spring 2024 newsletter, featuring Starfest, Founders' Award, 30th anniversary, and success stories Spring 2024 in this issue: Center stage at Starfest Founders' Award: Carol Buhl You uplift educators! Meet Kim and Julian 30th Anniversary Spring 2024 DOWNLOAD (PDF) Center stage at Starfest Thank you for supporting early childhood education for children in our community! “The backbone of the entire American infrastructure has been built and rests on early educators,” said Coy Bowles, multi-platinum music star of the Zac Brown Band and early education advocate. “Every kid strongly stands on a foundation built before they were seven years old.” More than 400 people joined Coy and Childcare Resources to support early childhood education at this year’s Starfest luncheon and evening events. Held at Riomar Country Club on Friday, February 2nd, Coy discussed how the framework of a strong foundation in early years fosters resiliency and healthy development in children. Through music and storytelling, he touched on the significant impact an early educator can make in a child’s life. Evening attendees witnessed the compelling story of Kim, a program parent. She detailed the many ways in which Childcare Resources helped set up the foundation for her children’s success and her own professional success. “I am proud to have my family be a part of this program,” she said. “Where Childcare Resources continues to put the children and family’s needs first.” From heartfelt live music to spirited conga lines, Coy’s inspiring presentation will leave a memory and message that attendees will not easily forget. “I have toured so many wonderful schools across the country,” Coy remarked. “But Childcare Resources is a shining example of what all the other schools are working to perfect. It is clear as day. Your investment is making a difference.” Up Load More Center stage at Starfest You help families thrive! Your generosity helped a local family build the foundation for success. When Covid hit, Kim was new to Florida with a one-month-old son. The days were tough and lonely as a single mother. “Everything was shut down and I was struggling to find good quality childcare. I wanted a place that would be safe to bring Julian on a daily basis,” says Kim. After learning about the early education program offered by Childcare Resources, Kim did two things: she enrolled Julian in the school and applied for a teaching position. “To come to work every day while also being present for my child’s educational journey was a blessing.” During Julian’s first year enrolled at Childcare Resources, the Wellness and Early Intervention director suggested to Kim that Julian be evaluated. “My quiet, clumsy, sweet boy who was scared of loud noises quickly began to stand out,” says Kim. “It turned out that Julian needed speech, physical, and occupational therapy.” Julian was quickly enrolled in a wellness program and on-site therapists worked diligently with him to reach developmental milestones. After only a year and a half, Julian graduated from the wellness program, no longer needing braces during physical therapy. “Now that we are two years into therapy, Julian is thriving,” says Kim. “Childcare Resources made it possible for him to remain on track in his education. He will be starting VPK in the fall and I cannot believe how much he has grown and overcome.” “Childcare Resources has done so much for my family,” continues Kim. “I never feel alone. I am proud to be a part of this organization and beyond grateful for the care and attention my children receive.” Up Meet Kim and Julian Spotlight on Giving Founders' Award 2024 Honoree Carol Buhl Attendees at the Starfest luncheon were treated to the presentation of the Founders’ Award bestowed upon Carol Buhl. This well-deserved recognition highlights her unwavering dedication and long-term commitment to the mission of Childcare Resources. Carol’s impactful contributions extend beyond her active involvement in the Program Committee and the professional development of teachers in Indian River County. She also takes the lead in overseeing the Wishlist program, a heartwarming initiative that gathers and thoughtfully sorts donated gifts, ensuring program students enjoy a truly magical holiday experience. Congratulations to Carol for her outstanding efforts and well-deserved recognition! Up Founders' Award: Carol Buhl You uplift local educators! “Thank you for the reminder that my role as a teacher actually matters.” The Starfest weekend continued at the Childcare Resources’ Professional Development workshop where Coy Bowles presented to more than 125 early childhood educators, representing more than thirty local childcare centers and organizations. Coy’s workshop centered on gaining an understanding of the key factors at play when investigating the root causes of success and fulfillment. He urged attendees to share the reason they became educators in the first place. For Katherine, this was simple. After graduating high school, she planned to get a teaching degree, but getting pregnant at a young age made this goal harder to achieve. After two decades of working to make ends meet as a single mother, Katherine followed her original dream and applied for a teaching position at Learning Nest. “I was beginning a journey which I thought could never happen at my age: shaping the minds of the next generation through love and education.” With the help of Childcare Resources’ Outreach programming, Katherine now has her CDA credential and associate degree. She plans to continue with a master’s degree in early childhood education. “This job truly is the most rewarding one out there. The smiles and laughs of the children are the reason.” Up You uplift educators! 30th Anniversary Through your generous and continued support, Childcare Resources is celebrating thirty years of providing and promoting high-quality early childhood education for children throughout Indian River County! We’ll be sharing more about our anniversary celebration plans soon, but there are plenty of ways you can get involved right now: Take a tour! Bring a friend and tour our state-of-the-art school. Become a volunteer! You can brighten a child’s day! Learn more about how our endowment fund secures the future! To learn more about any of these opportunities, please contact Tiffani Atteo: 772-567-3202 ext. 102. Up

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