Kristen Brock, M.S.’s Post

Facing expulsion in child care isn't just a policy matter; it deeply affects a child's sense of belonging and self-esteem. Children expelled: ❗ Are at a higher risk for school failure ❗❗ Feel increasingly isolated As early childhood educators, we must address these challenges with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to inclusion to ensure the children within our care can thrive. By working closely with parents, sharing concerns, and exploring every avenue to support a child's needs, we can prevent expulsion and foster a nurturing environment where every child feels valued. Contact us today to learn strategies to help you navigate this complex topic. #inclusionmatters #earlychildhooddevelopment #earlychildhoodeducators #earlychildhoodexplusion #advocatingforyourchild

Implementing clear expectations and behavioral guidelines is more than checking the boxes on your enrollment or procedures to-do list. It establishes a foundation for a supportive community. Detailing support strategies in family handbooks is critical, as it helps to set the stage for children's success and ensures families feel informed and involved. Continuous dialogue between child care providers and families helps to uncover insights into a child's behavior, guiding us toward tailored interventions that support rather than exclude. Remember, open communication through email, text, a phone call, or an in-person meeting is the most important tool for ensuring success among our youngest learners. Don't be afraid to talk with families or providers when you see something worth discussing, but approach the subject with empathy and genuine care for their child. #inclusionmatters #earlychildhoodeducation #mnchildcare #earlychildhoodeducators #parentsupport

Happy Global Day of Parents! 👪    Did you know that the most important interaction you can have with your child is through play? It's fun and every moment of play shapes their world, their skills, and fosters bonds. However, many children in vulnerable communities are deprived of play.     We call on our partners to commit to ensuring:  -Evidence-based programs delivered through health workers, social services, and community groups.  -Culturally and contextually adapted initiatives.   -Family-friendly policies to ensure care, time, and resources for play.    By supporting playful parenting programmes, we build stronger families and communities.  #EarlyMomentsMatter 

🌍 World Children's Day Every child deserves a future free from abuse and neglect. This year, let's focus on the 5 Protective Factors to create safe, supportive environments: 🔹 Parental Resilience: Empower parents to bounce back from challenges. 🔹 Social Connections: Foster meaningful relationships for families and children. 🔹 Concrete Support in Times of Need: Provide resources to meet basic and emergency needs. 🔹 Knowledge of Parenting & Child Development: Educate caregivers about age-appropriate expectations. 🔹 Social & Emotional Competence of Children: Teach kids to manage emotions and build relationships. 📊 Research Insight: Studies show that fostering these factors can reduce child abuse risks by up to 40% (CDC, 2022). Let’s take action! 💡 Join the Movement: Share this post to raise awareness. How will you stand up for children’s rights today? Comment below! #mindscape #worldchildrenday #protectchildren

Reflections on the Upcoming Changes to Child Support in Georgia: With the implementation of changes to child support calculations starting January 1, 2026, it's crucial to consider how these modifications will impact families in Georgia. The low-income adjustment is an important step toward addressing the economic realities many parents face. By recognizing that those earning between $1,200 and $3,800 may encounter financial challenges, the aim is to create a more equitable support calculation. Additionally, the mandatory parenting time adjustment represents a significant advancement. This change acknowledges the active role many non-custodial parents play in their children’s lives. By considering the time children spend with each parent, a greater sense of fairness in support decisions is promoted. Together, these changes have the potential to make the child support system more just and reflective of family dynamics. It is essential for all parties involved to stay informed and prepare for these adjustments, which seek to benefit children and foster effective co-parenting. #childsupport #familylaw #georgia

Peer helpers, or older children who assist younger children, can be a valuable resource in early childhood settings. They provide companionship, support, and guidance to their younger peers, fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development. By incorporating peer helpers into your early childhood program, you can create a more supportive and nurturing environment for all children. #PeerHelpers #EarlyChildhoodEducation #SocialEmotionalLearning #LeadershipDevelopment #ChildDevelopment #PlayfulLearning #CommunityBuilding #talkplayandread

YOU DON'T NEED TO BE LIKED BUT IT HELPS (and it leads to better outcomes for children) In conversation with Caroline Flynn we discussed just how important the things we often overlook can be for keeping children safe. One of these is the relationship between professionals and communities. Our thoughts about why and how are in the blog ... grab a quick coffee and have a read and let us know what you think. https://lnkd.in/ed2ABTmb Working Together 23 also has a focus on building relationships between professionals and families (including wider family networks) and looking at strengths as well as weaknesses #safeguarding #safeguardingchildren #childprotection #schools #headteachers #schoolleaders #specialeducationalneeds #socialworkers #socialcare #relationships

Tip for #ChildAbusePreventionMonth Social skills are important for children to become successful adults. Children and youth learn what they live and develop these skills gradually. When parents, grandparents and other caregivers take the time to help children learn social and emotional competence, they are strengthening a child's resiliency to stress and improving a child's relationship to self and others. Ways to encourage pro-social skills include praising kids for their unique qualities and when they do well, talking about and celebrating differences, and establishing a "no technology" day. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ThrivingFamilies #wgaforchildren #carefirst

Children in foster care often display behaviors that are misunderstood as defiance, when in reality, they are complex trauma responses. These behaviors can include increased aggression, withdrawal, and anxiety. Understanding and addressing these behaviors is crucial for providing effective care. #FosterCare #TraumaInformedCare #ChildWelfare Learn more about trauma responses and effective care strategies in my book "Heart of the Matter: A Compassionate Approach to Transforming Behaviors in Foster and Adopted Children." Purchase your copy today and make a difference - https://lnkd.in/guCmCTDi or Amazon

I’m excited to share the next installment in my series designed to help families navigate the complexities of planning for a loved one with a disability. In this video, I focus on key topics to consider when your loved one reaches school age, such as: ✅ Public vs. private school options ✅ Understanding Individualized Education Programs (#IEPs) ✅ Resources available at your school to support your child's unique needs This information is crucial for making informed decisions about your child’s education and future. #SpecialNeedsPlanning #InclusiveEducation #DisabilitySupport #FamilyPlanning Wealthspire Advisors