Early childhood services focus on age-appropriate growth during the critical early years. Through coaching, and in collaboration with community partners, supports are designed for families to implement in their daily home routines and in the other early childhood settings.
In Iowa we use the Iowa Early Learning Standards to guide us with helping children from birth until kindergarten reach their full potential. The Iowa Early Learning Standards provide a continuum in developmentally and culturally appropriate standards in ALL areas of development. In addition, these standards are aligned with the Iowa CORE standards for the end of kindergarten to support the transition from early childhood into preschool - grade 12 education.
As you review the document, you'll notice that included are essential considerations, the rationale for each area of development, standards and benchmarks for infants & toddlers followed by standards and benchmarks for preschool aged children. In addition you will find examples of what it looks like when children reach benchmarks and examples of adult supports that can be provided to children to assist them in reaching benchmarks.
Another resource we find helpful is the Family Routine Guide from challengingbehavior.org. This resource is one of many family friendly tools available on the website that assist families in helping their children develop social and emotional skills.
Northwest AEA also publishes a monthly Early Childhood Newsletter.
If you would like to learn more about resources available to you, please contact one of our Northwest AEA Early Childhood Consultant/Coaches.
To refer a child, please contact Robin Bennett at 712-222-6050 or rbennett@nwaea.org.
You can also use this Make a Referral link.
To learn more about standards, assessments, and more, please visit the Iowa Department of Education website.
