Abstract

Learn & Grow is a licensed childcare facility that has been working to fulfill the needs of low-income families in Macomb County, Michigan since 2016. Learn & Grow is the kind of community that prides themselves on their diversity and ability to provide their community with quality childcare. Many studies have been conducted to show how children living in poverty are more likely to experience low academic achievement, obesity, behavioral problems and social emotional difficulties.

Social emotional learning is highly important for helping children understand and manage their emotions. Using Second Step curriculum within the classrooms of Learn & Grow would strengthen the childrens’ social emotional development. Learn & Grow is seeking the amount of $3031.00, to cover the cost of the Second Step curriculum and materials to cover the enrollment of their five, 0-5 year classrooms. The Second Step program is used in classrooms and preschools nationwide to develop positive social emotional skills. They use research findings as key components to their program, based on current research conducted within the field. So why is this so important? The Second Step program can provide Learn & Grow with the opportunity to get ahead of the curve. During the first few years of life, children’s brains develop rapidly. Research shows that a strong social emotional foundation in early childhood impacts childrens’ later positive attitudes and behaviors, academic performance, career path, and health outcomes.” (www2.ed/gov) Help us Learn & Grow with Second Step.

Reference: https://www2.ed.gov/about/inits/ed/earlylearning/talk-read-sing/feelings-teachers.pdf