Supporting Early Educators to Support Early Learners

By: Katie Ridinger | Youth Enrichment Director, Valpo Parks

When I became the Youth Enrichment Director at Valpo Parks I felt very lucky to be over Discovery Cottage, a preschool which already had a wonderful director and a few solid staff members.  I knew that even though the staff was small, that they would still have a profound impact on the youth of Porter County. First Things First reports that by age 5, a baby’s brain is 90% developed, meaning that every child who will come through our doors gives us the opportunity and the obligation to guide them through these critical years.   

I wanted to find a way to invest in preschool teachers more than just providing coffee and bagels.  So, while attending a First Things First Porter County meeting I met Urzula, the director of Kidworks LLC.  We immediately connected on our shared vision about the importance of early childhood intervention in Porter County.  We both also knew it would take more than just the two of us to make the vision a reality.

After meeting and hashing out a few ideas, it was decided that Kidworks LLC would be able to offer training to our preschool teachers on some of the current concerns in the classroom.  The goal of the training was to provide direct support for our teachers and to create a connection so that if a concern did come up later, we have a professional therapist to consult. 

Personal training was given to our teachers, along with a list of developmental milestones, and red flags to be aware of in the classroom.  These practical strategies in a simplified format provided clarity and simplicity. 

As a result of this training, we now have staff who feel even more educated and knowledgeable.  Our teachers feel prepared, and even if something does arise that they aren’t ready for, there is a visible support system within Discovery Cottage which now expands outside as well. We are proud to have a community partnership that is about supporting the early development of young children in Porter County. 

Since the pandemic, we have seen a noticeable decline in young children’s development and have constructed a 2.5-3.5-year-old class to support the transition from 2-3-year-olds.  Our teachers have been vigilant and are able to communicate to the parents in which class their child will thrive. As we assess the needs of the community with Kidworks LLC, we will be able to continue adjusting classes to fit the needs of our students.

As society continues to progress and change, so should our approach and understanding of development.  Many studies show that by investing in early learning, it can set up these little ones for success, not only in school but also in the future workplace and society.  There are consistent findings of socio-economical positive impacts young children gain by attending preschool.    By investing early, not only are we setting up the child for success but also teachers.  If preschool teachers can support healthy development, then as the child advances through school the studies say there will be less interventions needed.

This project has never been about promoting Discovery Cottage or Kidworks, LLC individually.  This project is just one example of how community organizations can come together for the betterment of society.  The critical development in the early years may truly transform a child’s life as they continue to grow, which makes this partnership one that could truly impact the future.