The Maryland State Department of Education’s Division of Early Childhood Development in partnership with Johns Hopkins University/Center for Technology in Education, has released Healthy Beginnings, a set of newly updated developmental guidelines for families and those who live or work with children from birth through three years of age.
The guidelines describe what infants and young children are learning at specified ages, and how adults can support their development. The Healthy Beginnings website, www.marylandhealthybeginnings.org provides practical and fun activity ideas for parents and teachers along with downloadable tips and tools.
“Children are born with tremendous potential and capacity for learning. Our youngest children need positive early learning experiences that will lay the foundation for success,” said Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools. “Healthy Beginnings will help those living or working with young children to recognize appropriate behaviors and set realistic expectations for infant, toddler and preschooler growth, development, and learning.”
Healthy Beginnings was created to ensure that those who care for infants and young children have the knowledge and resources to support and encourage children during the ongoing process of growth and learning. By supporting and encouraging young children in their development, families, child care providers, special educators, family service workers and others who use Healthy Beginnings will confidently embrace their roles as a child’s earliest teachers.
