It has become common knowledge that learning begins at birth. Recent research on the developing brain tells us that providing young children with developmentally appropriate learning experiences results in children making use of the “window of opportunity” for increasing brain power. I believe the most important inference from this research is that every child has incredible potential. Perhaps it is time to dust off that old argument about which is more important, nature or nurture.
It is estimated that 13 million children under age 6 with working parents are in some form of child care. Sadly, too few are in settings that maximize their potential to learn and develop. Several research studies have shown that quality early care and education makes an enormous difference in later school outcomes. For many children, early learning programs mean the difference between failing and passing, regular or special education, staying out of trouble or becoming involved in juvenile delinquency, dropping out or graduating.
How can we provide quality early care and education to all the young in Illinois who need it? One piece to this puzzle is the Illinois Director Credential. It is understood that the director is the gatekeeper of quality in an early childhood program. Yet, in Illinois, there are minimal educational requirements for a director. While a barber is required to have 1,900 hours of training, a director of an early childhood program is required to have only 270 hours of training!
One hopes that this absurd situation is about to change. On May 15, the Illinois Director Credential project was officially launched. Its goal is to begin the millennium with a recognized professional standard for directors. A director credential will certify that a director has the specific skills, knowledge and competence needed to manage a high quality early care and educational program.
This is a win-win situation. Directors will have an opportunity to participate in a voluntary system that will result in improved profess-ionalism and compensation. Parents will have a useful tool to help them make informed decisions about choosing a quality center. Children will reap the benefits of enrollment in well-managed programs that consistently meet their needs for nurturance and challenge. Please support the Illinois Director Credential and take a stand for children.
