NIEER: Nation Institute for Early Education Research

 The National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) conducts and communicates research to support high-quality, effective early childhood education for all young children. The Institute offers independent, research-based advice and technical assistance to policymakers, journalists, researchers, and educators

 EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: PATHWAYS TO  BETTER HEALTH

This study provided information how early childhood education programs can contribute towards better health both short and long term. Children who attend high quality preschool programs learn to make cognitive and socio-emotional decisions that continue  well onto their adult life. They are likely to go to the doctor, get immunizations and receive dental care. Both the children and their parents learn about proper nutrition which can help with obesity or malnutrition especially children who live in poverty.

High quality preschool programs have been founded to influence health practices. These programs have been an effective tool towards providing better health education that continues in adulthood. The study explains that:

• To improve adult health begins by improving child health.
• Knowledgeable, educated, individuals are more likely to make better decisions on having a healthier lifestyle. (cognitive development)
• Early childhood programs have positive impacts on children's socio-emotional development, which includes mental health and behavior problems.

Resource
 http://nieer.org/

My Research Journey

The journey I decided to embark on will be Special Education in Early Childhood. My reasons for choosing special education is because in our school there has been a growing population of children with developmental disabilities. Through the years I have been working with the child study team in accommodating young children adapt to the classroom environment. In all honesty, when I started teaching preschool I was overwhelmed with the vast amount of children who needed help adapting to school. I also hear other teachers struggle with children who are diagnosed with autism and how they feel both overwhelmed and incapable of helping due their the lack of training.

 Personal reasons also guided me towards special education. One of my daughters has had an IEP(Individualized Education Program) since she was in the first grade. I am grateful that my daughter has had the help she needed to help her through her academic career. My nephew who was diagnosed with Emmanuel Syndrome also has inspired me towards learning more about Special Education.

Thus far in my research I have grown to understand the different types of disabilities and the methods in helping the teachers, children and families cope with the ups and downs being in an inclusion classroom. The knowledge I hope to gain I want to be able to practice and share. Any information, experiences, opinions, views, etc., that anyone is willing to share with me would truly be appreciated.  If I can help anyone do not hesitate to ask.  GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!!!!!