I can still remember the many families that I came to know as a home visitor and family educator for Early Head Start (EHS) prior to 2006. Deep down, I always felt that EHS was a wonderful program that provided many avenues of betterment for families with young children.
Not too long ago, I ran across an article explaining the results of a study on the benefits of EHS. This national study was conducted by Mathematica Policy Research, Inc., and Columbia University’s Center for Children and Families in conjunction with Early Head Start Research Consortium. The study clearly showed that EHS had a positive influence on children’s (three-year-olds) cognitive, language, and social emotional development. It was also reported that the parents of those EHS children scored higher than the control group in aspects of home environment, parenting behavior, self-sufficiency, and benefits proved better for EHS fathers.
I am not surprised. I watched many single EHS mothers gain in confidence as they took part in their child’s development. I also believe that part of that improvement came from knowing that someone cared about them and their child and I believe that supporting the relationships between the parent and child is primary factor for such improvement.
I will never forget my years with EHS and I will always be thankful for the opportunity to grow as I strived to lift others.
Reference:
Administration for Children and Families. (2006). Early head start benefits children and families: Early head start research and evaluation project. Retrieved from http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/ehs/ehs_resrch/reports/dissemination/research_briefs/research_brief_overall.pdf
3 comments:
You have wisely noted the value of parent engagement and education as a component of quality programs. I believe that the most cited studies on the benefits of investing in early education (Abecedarian and Perry for example) included a parent engagement component. This is one the most valuable aspects of Head Start and Early Head Start. I have seen parents become advocates for children - even requesting meetings with local political leaders and speaking before city councils and boards of education!
Sally,
I enjoyed your post this week, it was very interesting. Looks like you had some wonderful memories of your career at EHS. I use to work at a Head Start and I have alot of memories as well.
Sally,
Your job sounded very challenging ,yet rewarding. I know you will treasure all the wonderful memories of the children and their families.
Post a Comment