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Childcare Resources, a leading advocate for early childhood development and education in Indian River County, is pleased to announce a generous gift from the John’s Island Foundation to fully fund an educational outdoor classroom. Through funding from John’s Island Foundation, the current 122 children attending the Childcare Resources School will have access to an outdoor classroom and age-appropriate equipment that promotes motor experiences, imaginative and fine-motor development, and exploration of natural materials. Tara Beard, Childcare Resources School Director, understands the important benefits an outdoor classroom will have for students. “The most important period of life is from birth to age six,” she says. “During these critical early learning years, it is essential that children have access to outdoor spaces that provide stimulation for physical and cognitive development.” The outdoor classroom includes an art studio with four-sided easels and a water sensory trough, as well as balance beams, tunnels, bridges, and platform blocks. Its flexible design ensures that the space can be easily reconfigured, continually inspiring creativity and supporting the development of all students. “Outdoor classrooms are dynamic spaces where children can observe and experiment,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Childcare Resources Executive Director. “Thanks to the John’s Island Foundation, our children are receiving these fundamental learning experiences.” By immersing program students in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment, the new outdoor classroom will foster curiosity and creativity. “John’s Island Foundation is thrilled that our grant to Childcare Resources’ outdoor classroom will help children enjoy fresh air and the outdoors while also learning,” says Kathy Balderston, Vice President of Core Grants. “A wonderful educational combination.”

Childcare Resources School Director Tara Beard, Assistant School Director Sadie Collet, Administrative Assistant Kimberly Martinez, and Early Childhood Educator Marilyn Brock recently achieved their Literacy Micro-credential Certification from the University of Florida’s Lastinger Center. In collaboration with the Florida Department of Education and the Division of Early Learning, UF Lastinger Center’s Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential equips early learning instructional personnel and childcare providers with the skills needed to support student outcomes for school readiness. “It was an eye-opening experience,” says Brock, who has been teaching at Childcare Resources since 2013. “I explored new strategies that help support high-quality interactions in my VPK classroom. These strategies allow my children to think deeply and creatively, expand their knowledge, and improve their language development.” Not only does the certification enable educators to accurately identify literacy difficulties in order to apply evidence-based practices, but participants also learn to engage in effective progress monitoring and intervention, ensuring comprehensive support for early literacy development. “I am grateful Childcare Resources gave me the opportunity to take the micro-credential,” says Brock. “I have newfound excitement for improving my quality of teaching and for improving literacy knowledge for all my students. I know I am making a difference in their learning.” By completing this program, Beard, Collet, Martinez and Brock demonstrate their continued commitment to excellence and high-quality early childhood education. “This credential significantly impacts the educational journey of countless young children, setting them on a path to lifelong learning and success,” says Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “I am so proud of them for this achievement and for their ongoing professional growth.”

This June, local early educators came together for fellowship and collaborative learning at Childcare Resources of Indian River. Community of Practice, an indispensable part of Childcare Resources’ early educator coaching program, brings together passionate teachers of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to engage in team-based learning while also offering a support network to address the challenges encountered in the classroom. Funded by Early Learning Coalition of Indian River, Martin, and Okeechobee, and available at no cost to early childhood educators, the summer Community of Practice meets weekly, a change from the month-to-month meetings held in spring and fall. Hosted by Childcare Resources Early Education Coach Todd Morrow, Community of Practice meetings are fashioned to mirror family gatherings, fostering a sense of camaraderie among educators as they brainstorm together. Lisa Bishop, an educator at Small Wonders Preschool, has gained valuable insight from the sessions. “Meeting weekly has really been wonderful. The connections made with the other teachers comes easier since not much time passes in-between each meeting,” she says. “It’s a great feeling to be able to go straight back to work and implement everything learned here to the children.” Morrow enjoys instructing Community of Practice as he believes that establishing a supportive community dedicated to the advancement of early childhood education is important for Indian River. “My goal is that these educators will leave with intentional plans for their classrooms that have been crafted by the motivation, encouragement, and experience of everyone involved.”

As Mental Health Awareness Month took center stage this May, Childcare Resources of Indian River aims at fostering mental wellness among children and families as their Wellness and Early Intervention Program continues to grow. Recognizing the importance of ensuring the wellness of the entire family unit, Childcare Resources has significantly increased focus on supporting families in the areas of mental health and behavioral support. The addition of an on-site Early Childhood Mental Health Therapist and an on-site Early Childhood Mental Health and Behavioral Coach provides program students at Childcare Resources with therapeutic support for issues such as separation anxiety, panic attacks, aggression, and emotional outbursts. Mental Health and Behavioral Coach Jessica Halpin, is driven by making a meaningful difference in the lives of children. “I am dedicated to providing individualized support and implementing evidence-based interventions to help children develop essential skills and work through behavioral barriers,” she says. “I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where they feel supported and empowered to learn and grow.” Since 2023, Childcare Resources’ Wellness and Early Intervention Program has logged over one thousand hours of mental health therapeutic intervention through play therapy, art and sand therapy, in-classroom behavioral modeling, as well as parenting support with a home visiting component. Additionally, Childcare Resources provides an on-staff Case Manager and Family Services Specialist that is available to all program families offering a vast array of support in such areas as housing, higher education assistance, referrals for legal concerns, parenting support, and much more. Tracey Griffis, Director of Wellness and Early Intervention, touches on how important it is to bring as many available resources as possible to families to ensure that they have the support they need to be successful. “Next month we will host Mental Health Association and Tykes & Teens, along with our own Mental Health Therapist and Behavioral Coach, to increase awareness of local resources that are available to our families.” Through funding from the Indian River Hospital District Trustees, Childcare Resources was able to obtain the Florida Association of Infant Mental Health (FAIMH) Endorsement for all of its teachers, making Childcare Resources the only school in the state of Florida to do so. The FAIMH endorsement identifies best practice competencies and uses a nationally recognized set of competencies to help guide professional growth for those who serve infants and young children. “We are extremely proud of this achievement,” says Griffis. “Childcare Resources continues to be deeply committed to nurturing the mental wellness of our community’s youngest members.”

Childcare Resources’ (CCR) Higher Education Program recently held a luau-themed celebration in honor of three spring graduates. The program partners with accredited colleges and universities across Florida to offer credential and degree pathways to local early childhood educators. “Michelle, Yenni, and Randee have worked hard and shown determination in the pursuit of lifelong learning,” says CCR Higher Education Program Degree Specialist Stephanie Harmody. “In the spring semester, that hard work culminated in the successful completion of a college degree.” Michelle Feliciano, a teacher at Asbury UMC Academy, earned her Associate of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Indian River State College. “Inquiry and observation are keys to learning,” says Debbie Kohuth, Dean of School of Education, Indian River State College. “Indian River State College congratulates and commends Michelle Feliciano on earning her degree.” Yenni Kristianson, a teacher with Economic Opportunities Council of Indian River County Head Start, earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Florida Gateway College. “Yenni was an amazing student,” says Dr. Sharron Cuthbertson, Associate Professor, Early Childhood Educator at Florida Gateway College. “She showed so much growth and shared her knowledge with fellow classmates.” Randee Bok, Prevention Intervention Specialist, Early Learning Programs of the School District of Indian River County, earned her Master of Education, Early Childhood Education Leadership, from the University of North Florida. “Throughout the program, Randee’s experience and thoughtful responses positively impacted her classmates’ learning,” says Dr. Katrina Hall, Associate Professor, Department of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum, University of North Florida. In the 2023-2024 academic year, forty-nine local educators participated in the CCR Higher Education Program. Throughout the year, participants work one-on-one with program staff to navigate enrollment, registration, and coursework. The program also provides study hall, resources, and enrichment activities. Over seven academic years, the CCR Higher Education Program has supported a total of 241 credential, degree, and certificate completions.

Earlier this month, Childcare Resources School celebrated Week of the Young Child alongside 60,000 early childhood education advocates nationwide. A week filled with special learning experiences and themed days, Week of the Young Child was established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) more than fifty years ago and is based on raising awareness for the importance of early childhood education and development. The NAEYC-accredited Childcare Resources School highlighted the learning and growth of children with developmentally appropriate activities that strived to engage students in fun and creative ways. During Bubble Day children were immersed in sensory play and were introduced to concepts like surface tension. Developmental benefits of bubble play include visual tracking and fine motor skills, both important lessons in coordination, body awareness and postural control. Messy Art Day encouraged children to harness creativity and collaboration through outdoor art projects, while Wacky Wednesday emphasized their critical thinking as children dressed up to learn concepts such as compare and contrast. “Week of the Young Child was such a great experience for our school to come together as a school family and celebrate early education,” said Sadie Collet, Childcare Resources Assistant School Director. “It was great to see all the families participating in each day’s theme. Our families and volunteers who visited the school throughout the week were able to see how we implement the NAEYC standards as well as our curriculum in fun and engaging ways.” By celebrating the Week of the Young Child, Childcare Resources is proving their dedication in ensuring that early childhood education and development is in the spotlight. The special play-based activities held throughout the week aid students at Childcare Resources to develop critical-thinking, problem-solve, make decisions, and be creative, and reminds our community of the importance of learning through play during these early years.

The Annual Meeting of Childcare Resources of Indian River was a night of celebration and recognition. Guests gathered under a tent on the campus front lawn and were treated to a performance by the Childcare Resources’ VPK students to commemorate the organization’s 30th anniversary. “Tonight is about 30 years of growth and success, but also about looking forward,” said Tracy Sorzano, newly elected President of the Childcare Resources Board of Directors, as she addressed supporters. “Not only has your commitment to heightening programming for children, families, and educators in our community made a great impact over the years, but your continued support allows us to persist in our mission for years to come.” The past year has seen tremendous success for Childcare Resources, including the recent Starfest luncheon and evening event, the nearly four dozen educators enrolled in the organization’s higher education program, and the continued dedication of school volunteers in classrooms. “Our programs impacted nearly 4,000 children throughout Indian River County,” said former Board Chair Jim Beindorf, highlighting the organization’s significance. Sorzano introduced four new members of the Board of Directors: Kelly Baysura, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at the School District of Indian River County, TP Kennedy, fourth-generation Vero Beach native and real estate agent, Melissa Shine, insurance agent with Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, and Gerri Smith, former Vice President of northern campus Florida Atlantic University. They join the current Directors in guiding Childcare Resources in support of the organization’s mission to elevate and promote the highest quality early childhood development and education in Indian River County, focusing on economically challenged children and families. Looking forward, Sorzano outlined the large projects Childcare Resources is currently engaged with, including a strategic visioning initiative and a collaboration with the University of Florida Lastinger Center. Both projects will help Childcare Resources define the ongoing success of the organization’s whole child development model. Joy Lambert, longtime supporter of Childcare Resources, capped off the evening perfectly. “To think that this entire idea started around a kitchen table and has grown to what it is today is incredible! The impact on our community that Childcare Resources has enacted never seizes to amaze me.”

"You are going to save a kid’s life in the next month,” said presenter Coy Bowles at a recent Childcare Resources professional development workshop. “The love you give your students now will impact that day when they’re thirteen or thirty-five and carry them through.” Bowles, a musician, author, and early learning advocate, spoke to more than 130 early childhood educators representing nearly three dozen local schools and centers. The half-day workshop, funded by Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee and PNC Grow Up Great Foundation with additional support provided by Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, asked attendees to connect to their calling as educators and reinforced the foundational skills learned in the early years. “Conversation, communication, and social skills are of the utmost importance,” emphasized Bowles as he discussed foundational skills. “Every kid needs to understand how they feel and how to communicate it.” Bowles’ presentation was punctuated by live performances including his song ‘Coming Home,’ which sparked a conga line. Mid-morning, four local early educators shared their origin stories with the audience. During this emotional segment, each educator touched on what had called them to the profession, the challenges they had faced along the way, and the support they had received that carried them through the difficult times. “I enjoyed being reminded that every teacher has a story,” noted Ashley Kazen, Director of Maitland Farm Preschool. “It made me think about my own story and why I show up every day.”

Childcare Resources, a leading advocate for early childhood development and education in Indian River County, is pleased to announce the receipt of a generous gift of $25,000 from the Indian River Community Foundation’s Community Enrichment Fund. This contribution will be allocated to support the Conscious Discipline program. Conscious Discipline is a comprehensive emotional intelligence and classroom management system that integrates all domains of learning into the curriculum, supporting children’s behavioral well-being and academic success. Conscious Discipline facilitates opportunities for teachers and students to build their developmental competence throughout the course of the year through direct, purposeful, and meaningful rituals and interactions. Amanda Gooch, Childcare Resources Early Education Coach, visits Conscious Discipline partner sites weekly, seeing firsthand its impact. “The program is inspiring resilience education in our community, while supporting transformational change in classrooms,” she said. “With the Conscious Discipline Immersion Program’s ongoing training and support in creating emotionally safe classrooms, there has been a significant positive impact on student behavior and academic achievement.” In its seventh collaborative year, the Conscious Discipline Immersion Program continues to guide participating organizations, including Childcare Resources, Bridges Early Learning Center, Economic Opportunities Council of Indian River County HeadStart, Little Rising Stars Creative Learning Center, Roseland Christian Preschool, and School District of Indian River County - Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten. Children's sense of safety and connection within the classroom is paramount for optimal learning readiness. Emotional intelligence and resilience, crucial factors in children's development and school readiness, are nurtured through Conscious Discipline. Research indicates that children equipped with identifying emotions, positive peer relations, effective behavioral management, and collaborative work demonstrate enhanced success in the transition to school and academic performance in kindergarten and beyond.

Childcare Resources Child-Parent Engagement Night, an interactive and fun evening of promoting growth and learning, saw its school campus bustling with excitement as 108 families participated in activities. The event centered around the principles of cooperation, connection, and problem-solving, providing families with valuable opportunities to engage with early educators. Participants gained insights into various methods aimed at nurturing healthy communication, both within the classroom and at home. Tara Beard, School Director at Childcare Resources, emphasized the significance of Child-Parent Engagement Night in building strong relationships between families and their child's teachers. "The bridge we create between home and school, forming our school family, establishes connections that are crucial for the optimal development of all involved." Throughout the evening, parents and students explored different classrooms, participating in collaborative project stations.  Tara Beard expressed, "Each classroom featured enjoyable make-and-take activities designed for families to continue fostering the vital connection between home and school." One standout activity, known as The Kindness Tree, involved children attaching cut-out hearts to a paper-constructed tree, symbolizing various kinds of acts within the classroom. Adding to the festivities, The Learning Alliance, a valued community partner, brought their Moonshot Reading Rocket school bus. Educators from The Learning Alliance engaged families in a "Sing, Read, Repeat" literacy session, reading the book Old MacDonald Had a Farm to the children. Childcare Resources’ Child-Parent Engagement Night strives to provide unique educational resources to parents and highlights the importance of family involvement in early childhood education. As Sadie Collet, Assistant Director of Childcare Resources school, explained, “It is wonderful for families to be hands-on in their child’s educational journey. Recognizing the challenges faced by working families, we plan many opportunities throughout the year for parent engagement ensuring all families can benefit from these special experiences.”

Demonstrating the true spirit of community and compassion, Childcare Resources of Indian River recently witnessed an outpouring of holiday generosity from local businesses and organizations. This collective effort resulted in an abundance of holiday presents for over 115 students from Childcare Resources, Community Preschool, and Learning Nest, ensuring a joyous holiday season for all recipients. For over a decade, the Childcare Resources Wishlist program has gathered generous donations of gifts for Childcare Resources program students. This initiative plays a crucial role in alleviating the financial strain on parents and creating a magical holiday experience for children. The generous donations were collected by the Childcare Resources Program Committee, responsible for organizing the gifts. The third week of December sees families arriving to pick up the carefully compiled presents. Christine Hammarskjold, Childcare Resources Board of Director, and a dedicated member of the Program Committee who has volunteered for the Wishlist program for the past two years, shared her enthusiasm: “It is one of my favorite Vero Beach charitable activities. After collecting all the gifts, we wear festive hats and become Santa’s elves. We review each child’s wish list, then sort and compile toys, books, and clothing for each child to ensure an over joyous Christmas morning.” Childcare Resources extends heartfelt gratitude to this year’s Wishlist donors, whose generosity has made a significant impact on the community. Special thanks to Bent Pine Country Club, Community Church of Vero Beach, First Service Residential, Jackson and Glenda Floyd, The Law Offices of Jennifer D. Peske, John’s Island Community Condominium Services, PNC Private Bank, Riomar Country Club, Treasure Coast Pilot Club, and Vero Beach Country Club Ladies Golf members. Parents eagerly shared their excitement, emphasizing the impact of the community’s support. One mother of 23-month-old twins and a three-year-old said, “It means so much to be able to give Christmas gifts to my boys. As a working family, this helps more than you can imagine.” Another grateful parent commented, “My daughter is four, and this may be her favorite Christmas yet. She is so excited to see what Santa brings, and your gift helped us create the magic of Christmas!”

“The foundation of play-activated learning is who you are,” said presenter Sally Haughey to more than 100 early educators at a recent Childcare Resources workshop. “At the end of the day, all that matters is your relationship to the child. The children need to see you, fully present with them.” Representing thirty-nine local schools and centers across Indian River County, the attending educators joined Haughey in creative activities, discussion, and educational practice. Funded by the Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee and PNC, this professional development workshop allowed attendees to discover the value of play and the meaning behind the classroom environment. Haughey, the CEO and Founder of Wunderled, formerly known as Fairy Dust Teaching, explored how to bring play-based educational practices into the classroom. Building upon an Educator Identity Model, Haughey asked each participant to explore their pedagogy by examining their personal mission, vision, and what it is about teaching that brings joy. “Pedagogy is comprised of three things: my principles, my practices, and my perspectives,” said Haughey. “How you relate to the children in your classroom is unique to you.” Following the introspective journey, Haughey moved from the head to the hands, discussing practical methods of empowering learning environments and supporting children’s play through Play Mapping. A Play Map uses observation to document the physical actions and overall topics of children’s play. This documentation can help an educator better support play-activated learning and determine the next steps in the educational process. “I feel that learning more about how to apply Play Mapping into our daily classroom program can be beneficial on many levels,” said local center director Traci Lawson-Harrell. “This training was an amazing look at the benefits of documenting a child's hard work through play.”