This Research Digest by the Harvard Family Research Project (HFRP) summarizes the findings from a study on First 5 California’s School Readiness (SR) initiative in kindergarten children. The main findings are summarized and implications for early childhood practice are presented.

This article describes how family-centered practice can be used as a model for engaging in a partnership with families in the care and education of their children. Apart from the key principles of the family-centered practice model, empowerment is highlighted.

A new study — a rare effort that focuses solely on the father’s involvement in an infant’s life — shows a striking link between the support that dads offer and better infant outcomes. The research sought to answer several questions about paternal participation in breastfeeding and the use of safe sleep practices for babies. The results showed that fathers play a crucial role in both. Read more at https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/16/health/fathers-infant-health-breastfeeding-wellness/index.html?emci=9bc169e3-0a11-ee11-907c-00224832eb73&emdi=e9f0d441-c711-ee11-a9bb-00224832eb73&ceid=6814801

This two-part 2014 video module from the Alabama Department of Public Health reflects content from the most recent version of Caring For Our Children. The slides and narrative focus on promoting breastfeeding, family style dining, and good nutrition for infants and toddlers in child care. Additional materials (pre/post-test, training guide, resources, handouts) is available at http://www.adph.org/healthystart/index.asp?id=6504

This video explains the importance of parent-teacher conferences for parents and for teachers. The clip also shows the actual process of a parent-teacher conference and illustrates a variety of practices such as active listening and focusing on strengths.

This e-clip discusses the five predictors of early literacy and how teachers can use teachable moments to advance children’s reading. The webpage also contains discussion questions, recommended readings, and additional web resources.

This research brief by Children’s HealthWatch presents the findings on the harmful impact of food insecurity in early childhood on the child’s health, development, and academic and economic success. It also notes that federal nutritional programs can improve school readiness by ensuring access to healthy food.

This document provides a definition of formative assessment.

Early math ability is one of the best predictors of children’s later success in school. This compilation of articles was designed to provide families with guidance, inspiration, and motivation to support their young children’s mathematical development effect-ively. They show that math is part of our everyday lives and is conditioned by relationships, culture, and values; math can be an enjoyable parent-child experience; and digital media can be harnessed to promote math learning—for children and parents.