Policy

A written curriculum plan, as defined in the Program Performance Standards, provides a framework within which the Early Head Start (EHS) staff can individualize what infants and toddlers need to learn and how they learn. Providing intentional, purposeful, and individualized learning moments within the curriculum plan means using the knowledge of the child and his/her development to provide experiences and materials the child needs to ensure on-going development. The Performance Standards specifically uses the word “experiences” rather than “activities” within the definition of curriculum. Experiences are the specific and intentional focus of potential learning within activities. EHS staff will design experiences to be appropriate for a child at various ages and stages of development, and with changing interests and needs. Experiences and routines will be provided in a variety of ways that respond to the interests and learning styles of each child.

Procedure

  1. EHS staff will continue to observe and gather information about each child's strengths, needs, and interests; using this information to design their activities and routines. ( see Curriculum Planning)

     

  2. Adaptations and/ or accommodations for each child will also be provided as needed.

     

  3. To follow each infant's natural schedule and routine of eating, napping, and diapering, direct service staff will use the EHS Individual Routine Form.

     

  4. EHS staff and Family will identify 1-2 goals to prioritize. The direct service staff will document this on the Individualization Form

    1. The Individualization Form includes activities and ideas that the family and staff can do to provide opportunities for the child to practice the goals throughout the day in planned activities and routines.

    2. Keep the Individualization Form in the Individualization Binder.

    3. Timeline:

      1. Identify and complete the Individualization Form immediately after the initial TS Gold assessment.

      2. For children on an IFSP, develop a plan within a week of receiving a copy of the IFSP.

      3. Write no less than 1 progress/updated note every four weeks on the Individualization Form.

      4. Initiate a new Individualization Form for new goals.

         

  5. EHS Specialist will monitor children's individual progress through the EHS Monitoring checklist.

 

This policy complies with Head Start Performance Standard 45 CFR 1304.3(a)(5) , 1304.21 (b)

Policy Council approved: October 2012

© 2012. Head Start of Lane County