The Strong Start parent-child playgroup at Poppy Elementary is facilitated by responsive early childhood educators who support parents and caregivers through conversation and discussion around relevant child development topics. Play-based learning activities are planned and implemented for children ages 0 - 5 years with a focus on the arts, incorporating visual and performing arts, early literacy, and early numeracy. 

 

All areas of child development are stimulated while children interact with others forming early social relationships. The importance of providing an enriching early learning environment in a caring and peaceful learning community will give children foundational skills in social emotional learning and cognitive development. This framework will provide children the best possible start on their journey to school readiness and lifelong learning. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASEL cites family partnerships as a strength for the Peace Works program as research has shown that "the most beneficial and robust SEL programs are coordinated across settings where children spend their time, including home and school" (Allbright, Weissberg, & Dusenburry, 2011). Sustainability of SEL programs is enhanced by a strengths perspective at multiple ecological levels. "Embedding or integrating prevention and promotion initiatives into ongoing systems" will allow for their effects to become a natural part of daily interactions and routines (Bond & Hauf, 2004, p. 206). Through the Strong Start parent participation playgroup, parents will receive support from each other and will gain important skills and knowledge through their partnership with the educators in the program. This partnership will play a critical role in supporting children's long term healthy development. 

 

We recommend the implementation of 2 programs in your Strong Start Facility: 

 

Creating Caring Children is an effective resource in modeling safe and appropriate responses to common, yet difficult, conflict situations among children ages 0 - 3. 

 

Peacemaking Skills for Little Kids PreK/K is a program created to promote conflict resolution in young children ages 3-5. It is a resource that can be shared between Strong Start and Kindergarten professionals. 

 

The Peace Education Foundation believes that educators and early childhood professionals are key to the successful implementation of Peace Works. All programs offered by the PEF adhere to the following methodology: 

 

• Model peacemaking skills

• Explicitly Teach Skills

• Coach students throughout the day

• Continuously encourage students use of positive language

• Encourage children to share their skills with others 

 

Please see the sub-tabs under "Summary" to review both programs in more depth.