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In Quality First, we use the VISION model to guide the quality improvement journey. This is the fourth in a series about the six stages of the VISION model. If you haven’t already, check out our blogs on vision casting, investigating your current practices, and setting goals. Once you’ve identified your big-picture vision, reviewed your
In Quality First, we use the VISION model to guide the quality improvement journey, and every journey needs a roadmap. In this third stage, you’ll focus on setting goals and creating action steps for quality improvement. This quality improvement plan is your roadmap. It outlines your goal (your destination), and the action steps you’ll take
Before beginning a journey, you need to know where you’re starting. In Quality First, we use the VISION model to guide the quality improvement journey. The second stage in the model focuses on investigating current practices. In this stage, you’ll gather information about children’s daily experiences in your program. (To learn about the first stage,
Supervision is key to keeping children safe in an early learning setting with lots of activity. Active supervision means watching, listening and observing children at all times throughout the day. Read on for five strategies for active supervision. Set up your space for supervision – Is your space arranged so you can easily see and
A Quality First assessment provides feedback to recognize your program’s unique strengths and help you set goals for quality improvements using objective, research-based tools. Formal assessment is a regular part of participating in Quality First, but an informal assessment is also offered to all regulated early care and education providers in Arizona, whether your program
Now more than ever, we are becoming aware of how our choices affect the environment, our health, and the health of our communities. As early childhood professionals, we are leaders who can make a difference in the health of our environment. Through earth-friendly actions, we can improve health, teach respect for nature, and save money,
Think back to your earliest memories of mud. Did you make mud pies in your imaginary outdoor kitchen? Poke at it with a stick? Jump in a puddle and feel the mud squish and splash under your feet? Mud is one of childhood’s simple joys. And it’s also a great learning tool. We spoke with
There is nothing better than seeing a big smile on the faces of the children in your program! As an early childhood educator, you have the unique opportunity to help keep those smiles big and healthy by promoting good oral health practices with the children and families you serve. Baby Teeth Matter Baby teeth help
Early childhood education leaders know how important the first days and weeks of learning are to a new employee’s success. Training new teachers, administrators, support staff and volunteers is vital to the long-term success of any program. New hire orientation that is done well can increase satisfaction and reduce turnover. How can you provide orientation
Early childhood educators know children learn best through hands-on experiences. You can see the excitement of learning in an infant’s face when rattling a toy or as preschoolers splash at the water table. Your program’s daily routines, transitions and activities can either promote or hinder children’s access to materials. Here are a few tips on