November 2020

Have you been wondering how childcare centers have successfully continued to serve families and communities through these trying times? Check out our new three-part podcast series. In it, we interview the director, a teacher, and a parent from the University of Illinois Child Development Laboratory. Hear their stories and discover insights and a hopeful perspective on childcare during COVID-19.

The upcoming fall and winter holidays may feel a little different this year. Groups gathering to celebrate may be smaller, and key people may be missing from the table. There also could be changes in venue, food, and how food is served. Social distancing and virtual celebrations may take place. Adults may need to help children understand and practice social distancing measures such as keeping their distance and wearing a mask. Illinois Early Learning encourages families to follow state and local guidelines when planning any group gathering. Knowing that young children handle changes best when they are prepared for what will occur, it is important to plan ahead for gatherings by discussing expectations, and providing thoughtful and consistent guidance during the gathering. It is normal for children to feel sad, angry, or confused during this time. Parents can validate these emotions and teach children to manage disappointment while helping children create new memories.

Children keep growing and learning, even during a pandemic! During these interesting times, however, families may need some support to be sure that children are meeting developmental milestones and to address any areas of concern. Illinois Early Learning has tip sheets to guide parents. To learn more, check out:

• Is My Child OK?
• Eyes Right! Your Child’s Vision
• Do You Hear What I Hear?
• What Is Developmental Screening?
• Autism: Be Aware of the Signs
• Children’s Social Competence Checklist
• Get Ready for a Good Dental Checkup!
• Young Children’s Mental Health: What Is Essential?

Earlier in 2020, Illinois Early Learning, as well as several other projects in Early Childhood Collective (Early Intervention Clearinghouse, Early Intervention Training Program, Military Families Learning Network, and Illinois Early Childhood Asset Map) hosted a webinar at the request of the Illinois Association for the Education of Young Children (ILAEYC). The webinar is now available for you! Tune in and discover resources in Illinois that can support your work as you connect with families and help them support their children’s early learning.

Are you new to Illinois Early Learning or have you been visiting our site and reading our materials for years? We want to hear from you! We have updated our user survey and would love for you to let us know your thoughts.

Division for Early Childhood, January 21–29, virtual event

Association of Illinois Montessori Schools (AIMS), February 19–20, Benedictine University, Lisle, IL, and/or online

ILASCD Pre-K & Kindergarten, March 4–5, a virtual event

Sharing A Vision, October 6–8, a virtual event

Given the implications of COVID-19, many conferences and professional development offerings have been canceled. It is best to check with the sponsor before making plans to attend any event in the near future.

Please forward our e-newsletter to your friends to help spread Illinois Early Learning News throughout the state!

For more information about the Illinois Early Learning Project, contact us at (877) 275-3227 or iel@illinois.edu.

Missed a previous newsletter within the past year? Find one here.