Beautiful Beginnings (A Developmental Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers)

Developed by two respected research consultants for Early Head Start, this extensive curriculum takes a joyful activity-based approach to enhancing the development of infants and toddlers. Professionals and parents will get more than 350 photocopiable, easy-to-use activity sheets—divided into six age ranges between birth to three years —that build on each child’s natural strengths and interests, recognize and expand on emerging developments, and encourage progress in areas of concern. This research-supported curriculum

• helps children progress in eight key areas: communication, gross motor, fine motor, intellectual, discovery, social, self-help, and pretend
• promotes parent/professional collaboration as they choose goals for the child and support the child’s progress
• recognizes each child’s individuality by encouraging careful observation and reflection during goal selection
• uses—in many cases—materials readily available in most homes
• makes it simple and fun to track child progress with photocopiable goal sheets for recording objectives, “goal charts” for each age range, and corresponding stickers to celebrate accomplished goals
• is linked with the Ages & Stages Questionnaires® (ASQ®)

Ideal for use in a variety of programs and settings, such as Early Head Start, center-based care, home visits, and parent education programs, this engaging and effective curriculum helps young children meet developmental goals and enhances their school readiness.

The curriculum includes:

• more than 350 photocopiable activity sheets
• goal sheets
• a goal chart for each age range
• six pages of stickers
• CD-ROM with all the activities, goal sheets, and goal charts