The Building Blocks initiative by Collaborative for Children shines a light on the challenges and solutions in early childhood education. From birth to age five (or pre-school), kids develop critical skills that shape their future. Unfortunately, many children in Harris County start kindergarten lacking essential readiness skills. Building Blocks addresses this gap by enabling parents, educators, and community leaders with information, tools, training, and advocacy.
– Promotes preschool learning at home and in child care centers
– Highlights certified ECE training for educators/teachers
– Highlights the vital role of parents and family in early learning
– Supports equity in education for underserved communities
– Delivers authentic stories and helpful strategies in each video episode
Through engaging video episodes and community outreach, Building Blocks explores how STEM and STEAM education in early childhood builds present-day skills like creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. The pre-K program also showcases how play-based learning and parent-child interaction promote curiosity and brain development.
Episode 1: Addressing Educational Inequities
Episode 2: Parents as First Teachers
Episode 3: Legislative Support for Early Education
Episode 4: Supporting Educators
Episode 5: Importance of Quality Childcare
Episode 6: Learning Through Play
Episode 7: Social-Emotional Learning and Technology Integration
Episode 9: Comprehensive Support Systems
Episode 10: Merging Theory with Technology
Episode 11: Expanding Centers of Excellence
Episode 12: Bridging the Digital Divide
Episode 13: Innovating Early Childhood Education
Episode 14: Empowering Educators for Exceptional Outcomes
What You Can Do with Building Blocks for Kids
– Parents: Learn how to teach your child through everyday moments
– Educators: Access certified training and classroom strategies
– Child Care Center Owners: Improve your center’s quality and reputation
– Donors: Invest in a program that changes students’ lives from the start
Special Experiences for Every Audience
– Families: Watch episodes that show how to create a learning-rich home
– Teachers: Discover how to integrate STEM and STEAM into early education
– Community Leaders: Advocate for policies that support early learning
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Collab’s Building Blocks Program?
A: It’s a video and outreach series that explores how early childhood education can close learning gaps and prepare children for educational success.
Q: Who benefits from this program?
A: Parents, educators, child care providers, donors, and anyone who wants to support early learning in their community.
Q: How can I get involved?
A: Watch the episodes, share them, and connect with Collaborative for Children to support or implement early learning solutions.
Q: Is this program only offered in the Houston area?
A: No. While the Building Blocks program is focused on Harris County, the lessons and strategies apply to families and teachers everywhere.