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4/ TheBucknerClarion.com August 28, 2014 Get Them Learning Parents as Teachers Program Fosters Growth Debbie Canfield is one of the Title I and Early Childhood special education teachers at the Fort Osage School District. She holds a bachelor's degree in education from Missouri State University and a master's degree in special education from the University of Central Missouri. Canfield said the most rewarding aspect of her career comes from witnessing her students' personal growth. "It brings me to tears just thinking about it but it's so wonderful to watch these children grow. These kids are at such a pliable age – to get to watch them grow, develop and learn throughout the year…well it's like magic," Canfield said. "I wish we could assist every child in the district but funding doesn't allow." Funding restraints limit some of the programming; however, there are fundamental activities parents can do with their children on their own. Parents as Teachers recommends that parents read to their children daily, a practice also highly recommended by pediatricians. Further, spending one-on-one time with each child on a daily basis is beneficial regardless of the activity. During President Barack Obama's tenure, he has addressed the need for increased funding for early education. As a result, a "comprehensive early learning agenda" has been developed. By Jessica Mauzey (Continued from page 1) about positive interactions with their child, appropriate age- related developmental milestones and ensure accessibility to available resources. These goals are accomplished by parents, educators and children interacting together through games, reading or activities provided by the parent educator. The parent educator may also inquire about a parent's concerns or needs and offer ways to assist. Using the specified model for these visits, evidence shows the program increases a child's school readiness, as well as lowers the rate of child abuse and neglect. Beginning at birth, parents are encouraged to participate in the United Way Success by 6 Resource Center. Indian Trails Elementary School is home to this center and is available to parents and caregivers of newborns and young children. At the resource room, books are checked out, and interactive games and educational toys are available at no cost to infants and children up to fourth grade. In addition to the resource center, the Success by 6 program offers craft activities or playtime on a state-of-the-art playground set. Parents are encouraged to interact with their children as well as socialize with other parents. Parents as Teachers contends that forming bonds with other parents has the potential to develop proactive support networks that can be beneficial during different areas of the child's development. As children grow closer to school age, Parents as Teachers offers early childhood developmental and behavioral screenings. These screenings compile an overall score based on the child's abilities, strengths and weaknesses. This score is compared nationwide to the averages of other children of the same age. These screenings can help detect learning deficits, as well as recognize early signs of developmental delays or disabilities. Children three years of age and up may be evaluated for speech and language, motor skills, general knowledge, vision and hearing tests. When a screening is complete, the score is compared to a set of criteria that determines whether the child is eligible for further assessment or educational assistance. A qualified child will either be placed as a Title I or special education student. Title I children are only eligible to receive educational services one year prior to the child starting kindergarten. These children are placed in a classroom and participate in a highly structured and nurturing environment for half-day instruction. During their time in the classroom, students participate in a variety of activities that increase cognitive and social development, fine tune academic areas and allow for the child to recognize their abilities. A fundamental rule in this setting is ensuring each child has a voice that will be respected by peers and staff. This program is funded by the state and is offered to qualified children at no cost. Children will qualify for special education services based on current state definitions and standards. These children may begin receiving services at age three. Once enrolled, the student is placed with highly trained educators in a classroom setting. The special education students participate in the same curriculum as Title I children to attain the same goals. However, specialty services are provided to these students, including an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that may also include specific therapies based on the child's needs assessment. Once a student is placed with an IEP, the specialty programs will continue until the services are no longer needed. The goal is to reduce gaps in academic achievement. The administration describes the move as an investment in "our most important critical national resource." During the president's State of the Union address, he referenced a specific study that determined early education was actually a financial investment that reached beyond the academic expectations previously studied. "Numerous economic studies have documented a rate of return of seven dollars or more on each dollar invested, through a reduced need for spending on other services, such as remedial education, grade repetition and special education, as well as increased productivity and earnings for these children as adults," he stated. While future funding issues remain in the balance, evidence indicates these programs are not only beneficial but necessary for young generations. The district's Parents as Teachers program is now in session for the 2014-2015 school year. For more information, to set an appointment or to find out how to help, call 816.650.7655. Early Childhood Center state-of-the-art playground set.