Universal Preschool News
In this section, you'll find editorials, legislation, public policy and trends
on issues relating to preschool, pre-kindergarten, childcare and the push toward
universal preschool education. Particularly of note are articles concerning the
states claim of a compelling interest in compulsory preschool education. Visit
often for the latest preschool news.
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TV Inhibits Reading
With the expansion of cable networks, Internet and video games, our kids/teens are spending more time in front of "screens." Whether it is a television - computer - or cell phone - kids are spending more time "watching" rather than reading.
A University of Washington study finds that the more TV that a baby watches, the smaller their vocabulary. In fact, for every hour of TV, a child learns six to eight fewer words compared to babies who never watch TV at all. Experts say instead of passive activities, children of all ages are better served by being active - playing, learning an instrument, spending time with family, and of course reading.
by Sue Scheff
November 28, 2009
[More Results from Parents Universal Resource Experts]
RAND Preschool Study, Part II
RAND's report, County-Level Estimates of the Effects of a Universal Preschool Program in California, predicts local reductions in high school dropouts, grade retention, special education years and juvenile crime.
New research from economists at the RAND Corporation shows that a strategic, statewide investment in quality preschool opportunity for all would deliver major education and public safety benefits to local communities.
by Lynn A. Karoly, Elaine Reardon, Michelle Cho
March 27, 2007
[More Results from Preschool California]
Getting a head start
Kerrville Independent School District has introduced Handwriting Without Tears, a program that teaches students top-down and left-to-right formations, capital letters and letter recognition with wooden pieces.
Diane Flynn Keith, founder of Universal Preschool, an advocacy group designed to protect parents' rights to determine educational choices for their children, said pre-schoolers learn best when they are permitted to explore and follow their own interests.
by Alison Beshur
December 21, 2006
[More Results from Universal Preschool]
Preschool Pros and Cons
Melanie Bailey of Bossier City, La., has a background in preschool & kindergarten education, so sending her daughters to preschool was not an automatic decision for her.
She already knew they would be academically ready, so it was just the social aspect she had to consider. "Up until just recently, I was a stay-at-home mom so my kids never experienced the social factors of a daycare setting," says Bailey. "Academically I wasn't worried about them, [but] I can imagine that kindergarten would be overwhelming for a child that has never attended a preschool program.
by Kelly Burgess
August 29, 2006
[More Results from Preschoolers Today]
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