Best Practices Archives - Early Learning Nation

Montessori and Equity: Rising to New Challenges

Part 3 of a 3-Part Series

Mark Swartz·Sep 27, 2022·5 min read

The Montessori method arose across the Atlantic and more than a century ago. How is it rising to the challenges set in motion by the global pandemic and national reckoning over racism? A new generation of Montessori leaders is infusing the approach with a heavier dose of equity.

A New Start for New Mexico’s Native Families

Mark Swartz·Dec 7, 2021·3 min read

“What some may see as a gap,” says Jovanna Archuleta, “that’s not necessarily a gap. We can learn a lot...

Brain Matters Documentary Attracts Global Interest

Behind the Scenes with Director Carlota Nelson

Mark Swartz·Feb 25, 2020·3 min read

Prioritizing early childhood development, says documentary filmmaker Carlota Nelson, “Is a no-brainer,” before adding, “No pun intended.” Born in Tokyo...

Virginia is for Childcare Solutions

Smart2Start = 1 Application for Almost 150 Providers

Mark Swartz·Feb 26, 2020·2 min read

Virginia’s Roanoke Valley, anchored by its namesake city in Southwest Virginia, is a considerable distance from the economically booming area...

Johnny smiling for the camera (CA to TX road trip) by Bryan Guilas on Flickr

Planes, Trains & Automobiles: 7 Summer Brain-Building Travel Tips from Child Development Experts

Mark Swartz·Jul 18, 2019·3 min read

Summer travel is a whole other thing when you’re a parent of young children. The rest and relaxation you’ve been...

Caring Arizona: An Innovative Program Offers Targeted Support for Informal Caregivers

Mark Swartz·Jul 21, 2021·4 min read

Cokis is an immigrant mom and grandmother in Arizona. Her struggles with the trauma that she and one of her...

Good Learning Needs Good Nutrition: A Fundamental Value for the Educare Learning Network

K.C. Compton·Mar 21, 2023·6 min read

When you’re not sure what to eat, But you want to make a healthy treat, A delicious meal so tasty...

What a Difference Extended-Hours Childcare Makes

17-Hour Childcare in Rochester Is a Gamechanger for Working Parents

K.C. Compton·Mar 3, 2020·6 min read

When many daycare centers are closing shop for the day, Rosa Marie at Rochester’s Marvelous Mind Academy is just getting...

3 Top Takeaways from the Webinar: CSSP Invites Applications for DULCE Initiative Planning Grants

Apply by August 21

Mark Swartz·Aug 11, 2020·3 min read

Because we can’t take our Early Learning Nation Studio on the road during this time, stay tuned as ELN recaps...

Geetha Ramani: You Want to Teach Math? Play Games!

The Editors·Apr 18, 2019·4 min read

When University of Maryland Associate Professor Geetha Ramani and her colleagues visit early learning classrooms, they’re known as the “game people.” Ramani’s research shows not only the importance of teaching math skills, but also the effectiveness of what might seem like an obvious tactic: Make it fun.