Texas Annual Training for Directors and Primary Caregivers
This course is designed to meet the annual training requirements in Texas for center directors and primary caregivers. (30 hours)
This course is designed to meet the annual training requirements in Texas for center directors and primary caregivers. (30 hours)
Topic 1: Creating Safe Spaces for Children
Topic 2: Allergy Management
Topic 3: Child Abuse, Neglect and Shaken Baby Syndrome
Topic 4: Controlling Communicable Diseases
Topic 5: Universal and Standard Precautions
Topic 6: Keeping the Child Care Setting Clean
Topic 7 Vaccinations
Topic 8: Administering Medication
Topic 9 Dental Health
Topic 10: Building STEAM: The Intersection of Arts and STEM
Topic 11: Beyond the Five Senses: Proprioception, Interoception and Vestibular System
Topic 12: Early Literacy: Building Blocks for Lifelong Learning
Topic 13: Building Self-Regulation Skills in Early Childhood
Topic 14: Behavior Management Strategies
Topic 15: Director Focus: Empowering Growth, Resilience, and Lifelong Learning
Topic 16: Reflective Practice for Responsive Care and Education
Topic 17: The Happy Educator: Strategies for Success
Topic 18: Inclusivity and Diversity in Child Care
Topic 19: Brain Development in the Early Years
Maintaining a Safe Physical Setting
FREE PREVIEWScenario: A Model of Safety and Security
FREE PREVIEWResources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 1 Review Questions
Safe Child Care Settings
Monitoring for Safety
Ratios and Supervision
Alertness and Attentiveness
Enrollment Process and Updates
Chapter 2 Review Questions
Chapter 2 Open-Ended Question
Preventing Choking, Suffocations, and Strangulation
Signs of Choking and Suffocation
Reducing the Risks
Common Objects that Children put in their Mouths
Educating Children about Choking Dangers
Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 3 Review Questions
Serving Food in Child Care
Food Safety in the Child Care Setting
Food Handling
Educating Children about Food Safety
Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 4 Review Questions
Chapter 4 Open-Ended Questions
What Is SIDS?
SIDS Risk Factors
Safe Sleep
Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 5 Review Questions
Teaching Children about Safety
Creating and Reinforcing Safety Rules
Tips for Creating Safety Rules
Teaching Safety Content
Safe Use of Riding Toys
Activities to Teach Children about Safety
Chapter 6 Review Questions
Pedestrian Safety
Scenario: A Day at the Park
Safety for Group Walks with Children
Pedestrian Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 7 Review Questions
Transporting Children
Field Trip Safety
Car Seats
School Bus Passenger Safety
School Bus Safety Measures for Children
Transportation Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 8 Review Questions
Chapter 8 Open-Ended Questions
Water Safety and Drowning Prevention
Water Safety Precautions
Water Emergency Response
Teach Children About Drowning Prevention
Water Safety Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 9 Review Questions
Hazardous Materials and Biological Contaminants
Exposure to Lead
Exposure to Carbon Monoxide
Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 10 Review Questions
Chapter 10 Open-Ended Questions
Preventing Poisoning
Common Causes
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Empowering Children and Staff
Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 11 Review Questions
Fire Safety in Child Care Settings
Scenario: Fire Drill
Make Learning Fire Safety Fun
Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 12 Review Questions
Responding to Injuries and Emergencies
Scenario: Injury
Recognizing Escalated Emergencies
First-Aid Kits
Incident Reporting
Developing Emergency Plans
Be Prepared
Engaging Parents in Safety Practices
Emergency Resources for Parents and Educators
Chapter 13 Review Questions
Topic 1 Reflection
End of Topic 1 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Understanding and Managing Allergies
Introduction to Allergies
Allergy Symptoms
Chapter 14 Review Questions
Understanding Food Allergies
Food Allergy Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis in Infants and Toddlers
Allergies and Infants
Chapter 15 Review Questions
Chapter 15 Open-Ended Question
Understanding Common Food Allergens
Decoding Food Labels for Allergens
Preparing Allergen-Free Meals
Preventing Cross-Contamination
Chapter 16 Review Questions
Parents and Educators Collaborate
Educating Children about Their Own Allergies
Educating Other Children about Food Allergies
Lessons for Safe Practices During Lunchtime
Raising Awareness about Food Allergies
Chapter 17 Review Questions
Chapter 17 Open-Ended Question
Environmental Allergies
Creating an Allergen-Free Environment
Dealing with Seasonal Allergies
Chapter 18 Review Questions
Allergy Emergency Management
First Aid for Allergic Reactions
When to Call for Emergency Help
Chapter 19 Review Questions
Communication and Documentation
Documenting Allergic Reactions
Secure Storage and Access to Medical Records
Creating an Allergy Action Plan
Chapter 20 Review Questions
Chapter 20 Open-Ended Question
Understanding Legal Responsibilities
Ethical Considerations in Managing Allergies
Resources for Managing Allergies in Child Care
End of Topic 2 Quiz
The Crisis of Child Abuse and Neglect in America
The Long-Term Impact of Child Abuse and Neglect
Strategies for Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect
The Crucial Role of Early Childhood Educators
Definition and Types of Child Abuse
Physical Abuse
Emotional Abuse
Recognizing Emotional Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Impact of Child Sexual Abuse
Abusive Head Trauma (Shaken Baby Syndrome)
Consequences of Abusive Head Trauma in Infants
Preventing Abusive Head Trauma in Infants
Child Neglect
Signs of Child Neglect
Responding to Suspected Abuse or Neglect
Reporting Procedures for Child Care Providers in Texas
Report What You Know About the Child and the Event
Report Even When in Doubt
Understanding Factors Influencing Child Abuse and Neglect
Factors for Perpetrating Child Abuse and Neglect
Protective Factors in Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect
Everyone Has a Role to play Prevention
Parents and Caregivers on Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect
The Collective Responsibility in Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect
Creating Safe and Supportive Learning Environments
Communication with Children and Families
Teaching Children about Personal Safety
Working with Families and Community Resources
End of Topic 3 Quiz
Keeping Children Healthy
Daily Health Check
Too Ill?
Look, Listen, Feel, Smell
Open-Ended Question - Excluding Children
Understanding the Spread of Disease
Spread of Illness
4 Ways to Pass Germs
End of Topic 4 Quiz
Universal and Standard Precautions in Child Care
Standard Precautions
Cleaning and Disinfection Contaminated Areas
Engineered Safety Devices
OPIM
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Best Practice for Glove Use
How to Remove Contaminated Gloves
Hand Hygiene
End of Topic 5 Quiz
Keeping the Child Care Setting Clean
Disinfecting or Sanitizing
Sanitizing Versus Disinfecting
Mixing the Bleach Solution
Using Bleach-Water Safely in Child Care
Keeping Your Classroom Healthy: Toys and Classroom Materials
Toileting Areas and Cots and Bedding
End of Topic 6 Quiz
The Importance of Vaccination
Understanding Herd Immunity
Vaccine Tracking: Ensuring Compliance
Navigating Vaccine Requirements in Child Care
Outbreak Reporting: Essential Responsibilities
How to Report an Outbreak
Seasonal Flu Vaccine
Immunization Requirements for Employees
Hepatitis B Vaccination Protection in the Workplace
End of Topic 7 Quiz
Medication Management
Medication in Child Care
Key Points to Medication Management
End of Topic 8 Quiz
Promoting Dental Health in Young Children
Introducing Fluoridated Toothpaste
Proper Toothbrush Hygiene for Children
Tips for Promoting Dental Care
Healthy Eating
Keeping Children Healthy Test
Pre-Assessment Survey
Overview of STEM and STEAM
Understanding the STEAM Components
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Arts Enhance STEM Subjects
Arts Influence Cognitive Processes
Paving the Way for Future Innovators
Chapter 22 Review Questions
Chapter 22 Open-Ended Question
The Power of STEAM in Early Childhood Education
Extending Benefits Beyond the Classroom
Empowering Future Generations
Implementing STEAM in Early Childhood Education
Age-Appropriate STEAM Activities
Strategies for Successful Implementation
Incorporating STEAM into Everyday Routines
Overcoming Challenges in STEAM Education
Chapter 23 Review Questions
Integrating the Fine Arts into the STEM Curriculum
Integrating Language Arts with STEM
Integrating Physical Arts with STEM
Integrating Liberal Arts with STEM
Integrating Manual Arts with STEM
Chapter 24 Review Questions
Chapter 24 Open-Ended Question
Creating a STEAM-Rich Environment
Real-World Connections and Collaborative Experiences
Materials and Activities to Support STEAM
Loose Parts Play
Integrating Loose Parts into STEAM
Inspirational Displays in a STEAM-Rich Environment
Project Displays
Chapter 25 Review Questions
Chapter 25 Open-Ended Question
Encouraging Curiosity and Exploration
Provide Challenges
Problem-Solving Tasks
Reflection and Discussion
Tools and Techniques for Assessment
Supporting Children’s Progress
Continuous Improvement and Professional Development
Chapter 26 Review Questions
Chapter 26 Open-Ended Question
Handout
End of Topic 10 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Unveiling the Hidden Dimensions
Proprioception
Importance of Proprioception in Daily Life
Proprioceptive Development in Young Children
Signs and Symptoms of Proprioception Difficulties
Infants: Activities to Enhance Proprioception
Toddlers and Preschoolers: Activities to Enhance Proprioception
The Role of Caregivers and Educators
Chapter 27 Review Questions
Chapter 27 Open-Ended Question
Interoception
The Importance of Interoception
Interoception Development in Young Children
The Role of Interoception in Emotional Regulation for Children
Signs and Symptoms of Interoception Difficulties
Activities to Enhance Interoception in Young Children
The Role of Caregivers and Educators
Chapter 28 Review Questions
Chapter 28 Open-Ended Question
Vestibular System
Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex
Functions of the Vestibular System
Vestibular System Development in Children
Toddlerhood
Preschool Age
Signs and Symptoms of Vestibular System Difficulties
The Role of Caregivers and Educators
The Interconnectedness
Communicating Developmental Concerns
Tips for Parents to Enhance Sensory Experiences at Home
Educators and Families Working Together
Chapter 29 Review Questions
Chapter 29 Open-Ended Question
Handout
End of Topic 11 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Early Literacy Development
Creating Dynamic Learning Environments
The Vital Role of Language in Literacy Development
Comprehension: The Heart of Literacy
Understanding Print: A Crucial Step Toward Comprehension
Supporting Print Concepts: Everyday Strategies for Early Literacy
Chapter 30 Review Questions
Tailoring Reading Experiences
Early Stages of Reading
Birth to Eight Months
Older Infants
Eighteen to Twenty-Four Months Old
The Critical Preschool Years
Supporting Literacy Development in Preschoolers
Planning Reading Experiences Throughout the Day
Chapter 31 Review Questions
Chapter 31 Open-Ended Question
Phonological Awareness
Building Blocks of Literacy
Strategies for Enhancing Phonemic Awareness
Activities to Support Phonological Awareness
Narrative Skills and Vocabulary
Acquiring New Vocabulary Skills
Chapter 32 Review Questions
Chapter 32 Open-Ended Question
The Emergence of Writing Skills
Supporting Sight Word Acquisition
Pre-Emergent Writing in Young Children
Encouraging Early Writing through Play
Creating Engaging Literacy Centers
Designing the Literacy Center
Effective Literacy Center
Activities for the Literacy Center
Chapter 33 Review Questions
Chapter 33 Open-Ended Question
Handout
End of Topic 12 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Brain Development and Self-Regulation
Self-Regulation in Early Childhood
Benefits of Self-Regulation
Supporting Brain Development and Self-Regulation
The Foundations of Self-Regulation
Laying the Groundwork for Self-Regulation
The Benefits of Early Self-Regulation Development
A Critical Window for Self-Regulation Development
The Vital Role of Caregivers in Self-Regulation Development
Fostering Foundational Self-Regulatory Skills in Children
Chapter 34 Review Questions
Chapter 34 Open-Ended Question
Individual Differences in Self-Regulation Development
Ages and Stages of Self-Regulation
Toddlerhood Self-Regulation Development
Preschool Self-Regulation Development
Co-Regulation vs. Self-Regulation in Children
Co-Regulation in Child Development
The Importance of Co-Regulation in Child Development
The Supportive Process of Co-Regulation
Effective Co-Regulation in Infancy
Effective Co-Regulation in Toddlerhood
Effective Co-Regulation in Preschool
Continuing Support for Preschool Children
Chapter 35 Review Questions
Chapter 35 Open-Ended Question
Direct Instruction Techniques for Teaching Self-Regulation
Using Stories, Games, and Activities to Teach Self-Regulation
Modeling Self-Calming Strategies
Effective Self-Regulation Interventions
Evidence of Effectiveness
Self-Regulation Interventions for Infants and Toddlers
Preschool-Aged Children Self-Regulation Interventions
Reinforcing Self-Regulation Skills
Educator Self-Regulation
Empowering Parents: Promoting Self-Regulation
Tips for Encouraging Parents to Foster Co-Regulation
Chapter 36 Review Questions
Chapter 36 Open-Ended Question
End of Topic Summary
End of Topic 13 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Understanding Behavior as Communication
The Role of Environment
Physical Space
Social Atmosphere
Core Principles
Establishing Rules and Guidelines That Empower Children
Communicating Expectations Effectively
The Impact of Structure on Behavior
Chapter 37 Review Questions
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Strategies for Active Listening
Expanding Active Listening
Building Trust with Children
Motivation and Reinforcement Strategies
Positive Reinforcement vs. Corrective Feedback
Encouraging Cooperation and Self-Regulation
Chapter 38 Review Questions
Chapter 38 Open-Ended Question
Adaptive Guidance Strategies for Diverse Needs
Sensory-Friendly and Neurodiversity-Conscious Techniques
Structured and Predictable Guidance
Regulation-Based Responses Instead of Punitive Measures
Handling Resistance and Behavioral Challenges with Flexibility
Creating a Supportive Child Care Community
Collaborative Problem-Solving Approaches
Cultivating Resilience and a Growth Mindset
Chapter 39 Review Questions
Chapter 39 Open-Ended Question
End of Topic 14 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Building a Learning-Driven Culture
Leading with Purpose
Embedding Continuous Improvement
How Continuous Improvement Sparks Innovation
Chapter 40 Review Questions (1)
Defining a Vision for Lifelong Learning
Building a Communication Strategy that Inspires
Connecting Continuous Learning to Meaningful Outcomes
Leading from the Top
Chapter 40 Review Questions (2)
Chapter 40 Open-Ended Question
Nurturing a Growth Mindset Culture Among Educators
Building Resilient Educators
Feedback as Fuel
Walking the Talk
Chapter 41 Review Questions (1)
Harnessing Peer Mentoring and Coaching
Formalizing Peer Coaching in Child Care
Cultivating a Coaching Culture through Peer Mentoring
Embedding Mentorship into the Day-to-Day
Building Feedback Systems to Propel Continuous Learning
Cultivating a Safe Feedback Culture
Trust and Openness as Pillars of Continuous Growth
Valuing Every Voice
Lifelong Learning at the Core of Child Care Leadership
Celebrating Growth
Chapter 41 Review Questions (2)
Chapter 41 Open-Ended Question
End of Topic 15 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
The Importance of Reflective Practice
Using Reflection to Strengthen Teaching Practices
Meeting Every Learner Where They Are
Scenario: Liam’s Lightbulb Moments
Using Reflective Practice to Strengthen Problem-Solving
Reflective Practice Cultivates Lifelong Growth
Independent Assignment - Reflection Activity
Chapter 42 Review Questions
The Reflective Practice Cycle
Refine, Rethink, Reignite
The Reflect–Experiment–Refine Cycle
Scenario: Reimagining Transition Times
Scenario Questions
Professional Growth
Reflect to Elevate
Real-World Vignettes
Independent Assignment - Self-Assessment Tool
Chapter 43 Review Questions
Simple Steps to Embed Reflective Practice
Prioritizing Reflection in Your Professional Schedule
Reflective Journaling to Elevate Practice and Purpose
Using Guided Questions to Deepen Reflective Practice
Seeking Feedback to Strengthen Reflective Practice
Peer Collaboration
Turning Reflection into Purposeful Goal-Setting
Implementing and Evolving
Celebrating Success to Sustain Reflective Growth
Chapter 44 Review Questions
Chapter 44 Open-Ended Question
Handout
End of Topic 16 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Independent Assignment - Nightly Routine
Plan Ahead for Happiness
Independent Assignment - Nightly Routine
Nightly Routine Video
Create a Nightly Routine for a Stress-Free Morning
The Importance of Adequate Sleep
The Power of a Peaceful Morning Routine
The Stressful Commute: A Recipe for Disaster
Chapter 45 Review Questions
Scenario: Planning Ahead
Chapter 45 Open-Ended Question
The Power of Planning Your Day
Arrive 10-15 Minutes Early Video
The Benefits of Arriving Early
Preparation: Checking for Action Items
Creating a To-Do List
Breaks: Boosting Productivity and Happiness
Chapter 46 Review Questions
Scenario: Being Prepared
Chapter 46 Open-Ended Question
Relate to Others Video
The Power of Workplace Relationships
Starting the Day on a Positive Note
Transforming Your Mood with a Smile
The Importance of Networking
Independent Assignment - Support Team
Socialization in the Workplace
Chapter 47 Review Questions
Scenario: Collaborating with Co-Workers
Chapter 47 Open-Ended Question
Go to Your Happy (Work) Space Video
The Impact of Our Physical Environment on Happiness
Clutter-Free Workspace: Boosting Happiness
Transforming Your Workspace into a Haven
Adding Plants to Your Workspace Can Promote Happiness
Chapter 48 Review Questions
Scenario: How Small Changes Can Make a Big Impact
Chapter 48 Open-Ended Question
Accentuate the Positive Video
Shifting Your Focus for Greater Happiness at Work
Starting Your Day on a Positive Note
Choosing the Right People to Support Your Happiness
Maintaining a Positive Focus at Work
Chapter 49 Review Questions
Scenario: Surrounding Yourself with Positive People
Chapter 49 Open-Ended Question
Take Control of Your Career Happiness Video
Take Control of Your Career Happiness
Taking Charge of Your Professional Development
Seeking Feedback to Enhance Career Happiness
Practicing Professional Courage
The Power of Mentoring in Early Childhood Education
Chapter 50 Review Questions
Scenario: Taking Personal Responsibility for Professional Development
Chapter 7 Open-Ended Question
Set Boundaries Video
The Importance of Setting Boundaries
The Power of Saying No
The Power of Saying Yes
Protecting Your Downtime
Setting Boundaries in the Digital Age
Chapter 51 Review Questions
Scenario: Importance of Setting Boundaries
Chapter 51 Open-Ended Question
Practice Positivity Video
Cultivating Positivity in the Workplace
Fostering Positive Interactions
Cultivating Gratitude
Addressing Conflict and Misunderstandings
Finding the Silver Lining
Chapter 52 Review Questions
Scenario: Gratitude and Positive Thinking
Chapter 52 Open-Ended Question
Choose to Be Happy Video
Choosing Happiness
Managing Stress for a Happier Teaching Experience
Making Time for Activities You Love
Embracing the Journey to Happiness
Chapter 53 Review Questions
Scenario: Importance of Choosing to be Happy
Chapter 53 Open-Ended Question
How do we get to happy?
Giving Challenge
Resources for Educators
End of Topic 17 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
Foundations of Inclusive Practice
Fairness Isn’t Sameness
An Equity Inventory of Your Learning Environment
How Identity Formation Begins in the Early Years
Environment as a Mirror and a Window
Honoring the Whole Child Through Flexible Environments
Books and Storytelling Materials
Art, Photos, and Visual Displays
Toys and Dolls with Inclusive Features
Chapter 54 Review Questions
Chapter 54 Open-Ended Question
Sensory and Language Materials for All Communicators
Educational Foundations of Inclusive Sensory Learning
Inclusive Sensory Activity Prompts
Building Respect Through Words and Voice
Reflecting Identity Through Participation and Presence
Responding to Children’s Curiosity Around Difference
Chapter 55 Review Questions
Chapter 55 Open-Ended Question
Inclusion as a Daily Practice
Trauma-Informed and Neurodiversity-Affirming Approaches
Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice
Sustaining an Inclusive Culture Beyond the Classroom
Assessing Progress Through the Lens of Equity and Joy
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Chapter 56 Review Questions
Handout
End of Topic 18 Quiz
Pre-Assessment Survey
The Critical Role of Early Brain Development
Introduction to Neurodevelopment
Critical Periods and Plasticity in Early Childhood
Key Brain Structures and Their Role in Early Development
Chapter 57 Review Questions
Chapter 57 Open-Ended Question
The Journey of Brain Development
The Environment’s Role in Prenatal Brain Development
The First Years: A Surge of Connections
The Developing Prefrontal Cortex
Synaptic Refinement in Growing Minds
Chapter 58 Review Questions
Chapter 58 Open-Ended Question
The Science Behind Multisensory Learning
Brain Development: Designing Learning That Sticks
The Brain in Motion
Music and the Brain
Sensory-Rich Environments
Ambient Sounds for Focus and Emotional Balance
Empowering Exploration with Interactive Stations
Movement-Friendly Spaces
Chapter 59 Review Questions
Effects of Chronic Stress on Brain Development
Building Resilience Against Toxic Stress
Environmental Toxins Shape Neurodevelopment
Creating a Healthier Environment
Chapter 60 Review Questions
Chapter 60 Open-Ended Question
The Role of Caregiver Responsiveness
The Lasting Impact of Insecure Attachment
The Power of Serve-and-Return Interactions
Nurturing the Growing Mind
Chapter 61 Review Questions
Chapter 61 Open-Ended Question
Designing Brain-Friendly Learning Environments
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Early Childhood Development
Creating High-Quality Learning Environments
Protecting Cognitive and Physical Well-Being
Expanding Equity and Innovation
Chapter 62 Review Questions
End of Topic 19 Quiz
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