Are you passionate about early childhood education and seeking resources to kickstart your career in Arkansas? The Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program offers a strong foundation and numerous opportunities for those entering the field. For professionals and providers involved in early childhood development, understanding the ABC program is crucial. The Office of Early Childhood (OEC) is hosting online office hours via Zoom to answer your questions about the updated Rules Governing the Arkansas Better Chance Program. These sessions, designed to support educators and those in Abc Early Career Programs, are available live and as recorded videos under Training Videos and Resources.
Understanding the Arkansas Better Chance Program
Established in 1991, the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program is dedicated to providing high-quality early education services. It focuses on children from birth to five who demonstrate developmental and socio-economic risk factors. Recognizing the critical importance of early childhood education, the Arkansas Legislature expanded the program in 2003 to include the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success. This expansion specifically targets low-income three and four-year-old children in high-risk areas, offering them access to high-quality pre-kindergarten services. The ABC program encompasses various models, including Center-Based programs, Home-Visiting programs like HIPPY and PAT, and Family Child Care Homes, creating diverse avenues for individuals pursuing abc early career programs.
Arkansas Child Development and Early Learning Standards
For those building abc early career programs, a strong understanding of developmental standards is essential. The Arkansas Child Development and Early Learning Standards: Birth through 60 Months provide a comprehensive framework. These standards outline common expectations for children’s knowledge, understanding, and abilities across different early childhood ages. Based on research and tailored to be culturally and linguistically appropriate, they acknowledge that children develop at their own pace. These standards serve as a vital tool for educators in developing age-appropriate learning goals, designing effective curricula, and implementing assessments that support children’s success in school and life, making them a cornerstone for quality abc early career programs.
BehaviorHelp Resources for Educators
Navigating behavioral challenges is a key aspect of working with young children and a valuable skill for those in abc early career programs. The Office of Early Childhood (OEC) offers BehaviorHelp, a system designed to support programs in addressing behavioral issues in young children. Educators can submit requests for assistance through https://www.behaviorhelponline.org. It’s important to submit one request per child needing support. The OEC BehaviorHelp team aims to respond within three business days. For any follow-up or if you haven’t been contacted within this timeframe, you can reach out via email at [email protected]. This resource is invaluable for those developing their expertise in abc early career programs.
For further inquiries about the ABC program and its resources, please contact:
Kayla Bodi, Program Administrator
Arkansas Department of Education
Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Office of Early Childhood
2 Capitol Mall
Little Rock, AR 72201
Office: 501-910-6479
Email: [email protected]
