Monday, December 13, 2010

0-3 Key Age

While many parents know that ages zero through six/seven is key in the development of young minds, many might not be aware that within that time window, ages zero to three has it's own unique development growth opportunity. "Early experiences have a decisive impact on the architecture of the brain, and on the nature and extent of adult capacities." (Shore, 1997.) Schools, day care and libraries try very hard to continually expound this message through early literacy type activities in story, play and class times. However, parental involvement is more than key in this development. Your baby or toddler needs your help in becoming the best version of themselves. The library has many books & resources about this topic. But, I'd like to share some websites that are of particular use.

Zero-Three: http://www.zerotothree.org/ A national organization that aims to improve the lives of infants and toddlers. Includes some really cool interactive tools that show you how your child's brain is developing, and what activities you can do to continue that development!

Reading Rockets: http://www.readingrockets.org/audience/parents This national multimedia project offers information and resources on how young kids learn to read and why so many struggle. It has a phenominal parents page with FREE resources and activities.

Every Child Ready to Read: http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/ecrr/index2.cfm Although geared for library training, this website has multitudes of information on why from birth to 3, and then to 6, is key in developing young minds. Clear pictures of brain synapses being formed, bring the issue home.

National Center for Family Literacy:
http://www.famlit.org/free-resources/ NCFL's mission is to create a literate nation by leveraging the power of the family. The link included takes you directly to the parent's page, so you can download FREE activities, resources, guides etc.

Want some cool/educational toys to help you with your at home learning? Try these toy stores:

Constructive Playthings http://www.cptoys.com/
Folkmanis http://www.folkmanis.com/
Lakeshore Learning http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/


Best of luck!

Adrienne, Children's Librarian