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LEADING WITH PURPOSE,LEARNING WITH PASSION At the heart of every successful Head Start program are thededicated teachers, family advocates, directors, leaders, andstaff who work daily to nurture and educate young childrenand support their families. To help these professionals thrivein their roles, a robust system of services is available,designed to provide meaningful, ongoing support that alignswith program goals and the needs of the Head Startcommunity. This Look Book showcases how Head Startprofessionals can access and benefit from these services. Whether you're a new teacher, a seasoned family advocate,or a program leader, these services are designed to help yousucceed. By connecting with training, coaching, and system-wide supports, Head Start professionals can enhance theirskills, strengthen their impact, and continue making a lastingdifference in the lives of children and families.© 2 025 THE EAR LY CHIL D HO OD C O LL EC T IV E1 A L L RI G H T S RE S E R VE D

E A R L Y H E A D S T A R TH E A D S T A R TF A M I L Y E N G A G E M E N T& S U P P O R T S T A F FP R O G R A M L E A D E R S & A D M I N I S T R A T O R SS U P P O R T S E R V I C E Spg. 7pg. 16pg. 21 pg. 30TABLE OFpg. 3CONTENTS2

E A R L Y H E A D S T A R TEarly Head Start teachers and staff hold the future of our most vulnerablechildren in their hands, yet generic professional development fails toaddress the unique challenges and opportunities. Customized trainingtailored specifically to Early Head Start programs and professionals isn’tjust beneficial--it’s essential for program excellence and child outcomes. Rather than investing in one-size-fits-all approaches that waste preciousresources, let us customize training that honors your staff’s specific needs,builds on their existing strengths and directly addresses the federalperfomrance standards they’re tasked with meeting. T R A I N I N G F O R M A T O P T I O N SFull-Day WorkshopHalf-Day SessionTwo-Part SeriesCoaching Add-OnFormat6 hours3 hours2 × 6 hrsOngoingOn-site workshop with activitiesSession style; topics can be combinedDeeper exploration with time to reflectObservation and feedback in classroomsDuration Delivery3www.ececollective.cominfo@ececollective.com

THE ARCHITECTUREThis training explores how early experiences shape the developing brain during thecritical first three years of life. Through an interactive approach, participants will focus onthe profound impact that consistent, responsive caregiving has on establishing neuralpathways that form the foundation for all future learning and development. TheArchitecture equips caregivers with practical strategies to create environments thatoptimize brain development through meaningful interactions, sensory-rich experiences,and secure attachment relationships. By understanding the science behind early brainarchitecture, caregivers can intentionally support cognitive, emotional, and socialdevelopment during this uniquely sensitive period of exponential neural growth BUILDING RESILIENCE This training is designed to nurture emotional strength and adaptability during the earlieststages of development. Caregivers will be equipped with practical strategies to helpyoung children develop the crucial capacity to navigate challenges, regulate emotions,and bounce back from setbacks. Through responsive relationships and supportiveenvironments, caregivers learn to create the secure foundation necessary for children todevelop confidence, persistence and healthy coping skills. Building Resilience From theStart empowers adults to create positive relational blueprints that shape how childrenview themselves and their connections with others, establishing lifelong patterns forhealthy relationships and emotional well-being.brain development & early experiencesfrom the start4

This training illuminates how youngchildren actively build knowledgethrough hands-on exploration anddiscovery of their world. Participantswill deepen their understanding ofthe powerful learning that occurswhen infants and toddlers engagewith their environments through multi-sensory experiences, problem-solvingopportunities, and open-ended play.Educators and caregivers will learnto design thoughtfully preparedspaces that invite curiosity, fosterinvestigation, and nurture children’sinnate drive to make meaning of theirexperiences.This training empowers caregivers toscaffold early communicationdevelopment through the use ofintentional language modelingtechniques. This framework revealshow caregivers serve as masterbuilders, creating rich languageenvironments where children cangather the essential materialsneeded to construct their owncommunication skills. Participantswill learn practical strategies fornarrating experiences, engaging inserve-and-return conversations, andexpanding vocabulary in ways thatsupport language acquisition. Cognitive Construction ZoneBuilding Bridges of Language 5

BLUEPRINTS HEART This training guides caregivers through the essential designelements necessary to construct secure relationships that form thefoundation for healthy emotional development. Participants willdiscover how responsive interactions, emotional coaching, andsupportive environments work together as building blocks that helpchildren develop self-regulation, empathy, and positive socialconnections. Blueprints for the heart equips educators withpractical tools to scaffold young children’s emotional literacy,helping them assemble the framework skills needed to navigaterelationships and express feelings in constructive ways. from the 6

T R A I N I N G F O R M A T O P T I O N SWe understand—professional development can sometimes feel repetitive, disconnected, orsimply exhausting. You're balancing a thousand things, and the last thing you need is anothertraining that doesn’t speak to the real challenges you face in the classroom. Our sessions aredesigned with you in mind, aligning with the Head Start Program Performance Standards(HSPPS) and the Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF). More importantly, they’re built tobe meaningful, relevant, and respectful of your time and experience. We focus on practical strategies, meaningful reflection, and collaborative learning—because we know that’s what makes learning stick. And because you deserve professionaldevelopment that supports you and the incredible work you do every day.Full-Day WorkshopHalf-Day SessionTwo-Part SeriesCoaching Add-On6 hours3 hours2 × 6 hrsOngoingOn-site or virtual with activitiesSession style: topics can be combinedDeeper exploration with time to reflectObservation and feedback in classroomsT A R G E T A U D I E N C EThe training content is especially geared toward supporting teaching staff in implementing high-quality, developmentally appropriate instruction and creating nurturing learning environments,but can be customized to include: Family Engagement and Support StaffProgram administrators and directorsChild care center directors and instructional coachesFormat Duration Deliverywww.ececollective.cominfo@ececollective.com7 H E A D S T A R T

Early childhood educators are often the first to notice signs of trauma in young children.This training is designed to equip educators with the tools to recognize trauma responses,foster emotionally safe learning environments, and build strong, secure relationships withchildren. By adopting a trauma-informed lens, educators can improve classroombehavior, enhance learning outcomes, and support children’s emotional developmentduring critical early years. Participants will explore the neurobiology of trauma,understand how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) affect brain development andbehavior, and learn concrete strategies for de-escalation, co-regulation, and buildingresilience.CALM, CONSISTENT, CONNECTED Challenging behaviors in early childhood classrooms—such as aggression, defiance,withdrawal, or tantrums—can disrupt learning and strain teacher-child relationships.These behaviors are often expressions of unmet needs, developmental delays, or stress.This professional development training empowers educators with practical,compassionate strategies to prevent and manage challenging behaviors, while exploringthe role of co-regulation and the impact of the classroom environment and routines.Teachers will learn to respond consistently, with empathy, and with intention, whilepromoting social-emotional learning, self-regulation, and a positive classroom climate.Trauma-Informed Practices in Early LearningSAFE, SEEN, SUPPORTEDPositive Strategies for Managing Challenging Behaviors8

A well-designed learning environment is the "third teacher" in early childhoodeducation. It shapes how children interact, explore, and learn. This training equips earlychildhood educators with the tools to design intentional, engaging, anddevelopmentally appropriate environments that foster autonomy, creativity, andlearning across domains. Participants will learn how to create spaces that reflectchildren's interests, support a variety of learning styles, and promote safety, inclusion,and emotional well-being. Through the lens of CLASS®, the training will also guideparticipants in using the environment to foster warm, responsive relationships andsupport language development, concept exploration, and the development of higher-order thinking skills. By aligning physical space with intentional teaching andrelationship-building, educators will be empowered to elevate both classroom qualityand child outcomes.Designing Effective Learning Environments for Young ChildrenSPACES THAT TEACH9

High-quality teacher-child interactions are the foundation of effective early childhoodeducation. This training focuses on building educators' skills in responsive communication,emotional support, and instructional dialogue. Through the lens of the CLASS®framework, participants will explore strategies to create warm, nurturing relationshipsthat promote children's sense of security and belonging. Emphasis will be placed onfostering a positive classroom climate, demonstrating sensitivity to children’s needs, andencouraging emotional expression and regulation. Grounded in research and bestpractices, this training equips educators to engage meaningfully with young childrenacross daily routines and learning experiences, ultimately supporting both their social-emotional development and academic growth.THINK BIG, START SMALLHigher-order thinking skills—such as analyzing, reasoning, predicting, and problem-solving—are critical for lifelong learning and adaptability. In early childhood settings, fosteringthese skills means encouraging curiosity, reflection, questioning, and exploration. Thisprofessional development training equips early childhood educators with strategies topromote complex thinking through play, conversation, and inquiry-based instruction, helpingchildren become confident thinkers and problem solvers. Central to this approach is theConcept Development dimension of CLASS®. This training highlights how educators canintentionally move beyond basic fact recall to encourage deeper understanding andmeaningful learning, creating environments where children become active participants intheir own learning process.Enhancing Teacher-Child Interactions for Optimal Early LearningCONNECTING WITH PURPOSEDeveloping Higher-Order Thinking Skills in Young Children10

Starting your journey as an early childhood educator can be both exciting andoverwhelming. This foundational training on Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)is specifically designed for new educators, providing a supportive and informativeintroduction to one of the most essential frameworks in early childhood education.DAP is grounded in decades of research on how young children grow and learn,recognizing the importance of understanding child development, individual differences,and the cultural and social contexts that shape children’s experiences. This session willhelp new educators establish a solid foundation in these core principles, equipping themwith both the knowledge and confidence necessary to create nurturing, responsive, andengaging learning environments. Aligned with the CLASS® (Classroom Assessment ScoringSystem) framework, the training emphasizes the critical role of high-quality teacher-childinteractions in supporting developmentally appropriate, meaningful learning experiences.This session equips educators with the tools to connect CLASS dimensions with DAPprinciples, ensuring that daily practices are both research-based and relationship-driven.The Power of DAP in Early ChildhoodRESPECTFUL, RESPONSIVE, RELEVANT11

Early childhood educators play a vital role in nurturing children's language andcommunication skills, which are foundational for future learning. This training focuses onlanguage modeling—a high-impact instructional strategy that involves expandingchildren’s vocabulary, encouraging back-and-forth conversations, and promotingexpressive and receptive language in natural, engaging ways. Teachers will learn to useintentional language interactions to boost cognitive, social-emotional, and literacydevelopment, with practical tools to apply immediately in the classroom. Throughengaging, real-world examples and hands-on practice, participants will explore how toembed intentional language interactions into everyday routines and play-based activities. FEEDBACK THAT FUELS GROWTHEffective teacher-child interactions are key to early learning success, and qualityfeedback is one of the most impactful yet underutilized strategies in early childhoodeducation. Grounded in the CLASS® (Classroom Assessment Scoring System) framework—specifically the Instructional Support domain—this training will help educatorsunderstand how to provide feedback that extends thinking, affirms effort, and deepenslearning. Educators will learn to move beyond general praise and instead offer specific,intentional feedback that promotes reasoning, strengthens problem-solving skills, andencourages children to make connections and reflect on their learning.Mastering Language Modeling in Early Childhood ClassroomsSPEAK, LISTEN AND LEARNBuilding Meaningful Interactions through Quality Feedback12

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education lays the foundationfor critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills essential for success in schooland life. In early childhood, STEM learning happens through play, inquiry, and hands-onexploration. This professional development training equips early childhood educators withstrategies, tools, and confidence to incorporate STEM in developmentally appropriateways. Teachers will learn how to foster curiosity, guide investigations, and embed STEMconcepts into everyday routines and play-based learning. In addition to exploring coreSTEM practices, the training will integrate principles from the CLASS® framework tostrengthen teacher-child interactions that support effective STEM learning. Educators willexamine how high-quality instructional support, such as concept development, quality offeedback, and language modeling, can be intentionally embedded into STEM activities toenhance children's learning outcomes.Inspiring Curiosity and Discovery in Young LearnersSTEM STARTS EARLY13

Data-driven instruction (DDI) is a powerful tool that helps educators meet the diverseneeds of young children through informed decision-making. In early childhood settings,using data must be developmentally appropriate, meaningful, and practical. This traininghelps teachers understand how to collect, interpret, and apply various forms of child data—from observations to assessments—to guide instruction, plan interventions, and improvelearning outcomes. Participants will explore how to align data with the Early LearningOutcomes Framework (ELOF) domains and sub-domains, ensuring that instructionaldecisions are rooted in a comprehensive understanding of children’s developmentalprogress. Educators will leave with practical strategies and tools to confidently use ELOFand data together to inform purposeful teaching, responsive planning, and meaningfullearning experiences for every child.Data-Driven Teaching for Young LearnersFROM INSIGHT TO IMPACT14

STRONG TEAMS, STRONG OUTCOMESSuccessful Head Start programs depend on the strength of their teams. Whether in theclassroom, family services, health coordination, or administration, every staff member playsa vital role in creating a nurturing, consistent, and responsive environment for youngchildren and their families. When Head Start teachers, assistants, family advocates, homevisitors, and support staff work together with trust, clear communication, and a sharedsense of purpose, children receive the high-quality care and education they deserve. Building Collaboration in Head Start15BEYOND THE ROUTINEIn the ever-evolving field of early childhood education, staying grounded in your purpose isessential. This reflective and interactive training is designed to guide educators through apersonal and professional journey to rediscover their “why” — the deep-rooted motivationsand values that brought them to work with young children. Participants will engage inthoughtful exploration of their beliefs about children, learning, play, equity, and the role ofthe educator. Through guided self-reflection, group discussions, and real-life scenarios,educators will examine how their personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, andeducational philosophies influence their practices and classroom interactions.Reclaiming Purpose in the Early Years

F A M I L Y E N G A G E M E N T & S U P P O R T S T A F FT R A I N I N G F O R M A T O P T I O N ST A R G E T A U D I E N C EAll sessions are aligned with the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) andthe Program, Family, Community Outcomes Framework (PFCE), ensuring that all training isevidence-based, culturally responsive, and geared toward improving outcomes for thefamilies of young children.All training formats prioritize hands-on learning, collaboration, and reflective practice,enabling Head Start professionals to enhance their skills and meet the diverse needs of thefamilies and communities they serve.Full-Day WorkshopHalf-Day SeminarTwo-Part SeriesCase Management Support6 hours3 hours2 × 3 hrsOngoing/As neededOn-site or virtual with activitiesKey strategies and application focusDeeper exploration with time to reflectObservation and feedback of processThe training content is especially geared toward supporting family services staff in implementinghigh-quality services and creating strong relationships, but can be customized to include: Classroom and Support StaffProgram SpecialistsProgram Administrators and DirectorsCommunity PartnersFormat Duration Delivery16www.ececollective.cominfo@ececollective.com

F A M I L Y E N G A G E M E N T& S U P P O R T S T A F FSupporting Play for Families: Answering Parents QuestionsParents want the very best for their children andoften view success in school-related activities asa key part of that goal. However, they may needsupport and information to better understandhow play-based learning and developmentallyappropriate practices truly support long-termsuccess. Equip your staff with the tools andlanguage to support and partner with parents,and help them grow their knowledge and skills aswell.Engaging Families in Their Child’s Learning:Plans and Resources for Family EventsGiving families their own voice in activitiesexplicitly planned for them is, first of all,respectful, and second, the best way toencourage participation and host successfulevents. Using a specially designed template,participants will use the ideas presented tocreate and plan an event for immediateimplementation. Staff will share their best ideasand learn from one another to develop effectivestrategies. Family Engagement: Practicing Positive PartnershipsBuilding relationships with families is thecornerstone of center programming. To establishthese relationships, staff must be prepared tomeet the family where they are and articulate aclear path to positive outcomes and schoolsuccess. Working within a relational frameworkand adhering to best practices for communicatingwith families, participants will share their ideasabout the results while exploring new perspectiveson their work, particularly with challengingfamilies. Working Effectively with AdultsRespect the Experience, Ignite the GrowthAdults learn differently than children…so why dowe choose to work with them as though theyWERE children? To make a difference in the livesof adults, whether staff or family members,specific strategies are important. With a goal tocreate a culture of learning and support, thefocus will be on adult learning principles, theroles of coach and mentor, and the differencesin feedback and feedforward.17

This session is designed to take your family services team to the next level. By revisitingthe foundations of the Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (PFCE)Framework and aligning strategies with intentional, outcome-driven practices, your staffcan go beyond “what’s required” to “what truly makes a difference.”Participants will explore how to refine their approach, stretch their impact, and createstronger, more lasting partnerships with families. With a focus on sustainable strategiesand meaningful support, this training helps teams grow their confidence and capacity, sothe relationships they build with families don’t just meet standards, they leave a legacy.SELF-CARE FOR FAMILIES:Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. In this encouraging and practicalsession, families will explore simple and realistic ways to reduce stress, protect theirwell-being, and establish routines that support a healthy home life. Participants willleave with tools to nurture their emotional health—because when parents andcaregivers thrive, children are more likely to grow, learn, and shine.From Compliance to ConnectionELEVATING FAMILY SERVICESWhen You Thrive, They Thrive18

This interactive session equips Head Start staff with the tools and mindset to betterengage and support fathers and father figures. Participants will explore the vital rolefathers play in children’s learning and well-being, examine barriers to involvement,and discover practical strategies for building stronger partnerships. Grounded in theHead Start PFCE Framework, this training includes reflection, real-life examples, andactionable ideas to help fathers feel seen, valued, and connected to their child’s earlyeducation. Whether you're new to family engagement or looking to enhance yourcurrent efforts, this session offers meaningful direction and inspiration.Opening Doors for Fathers to Lead, Learn, and LoveFATHER FOCUSED FUTURES:19

Too often, family engagement gets reduced to checklists and event invitations. Buttruly meaningful engagement goes deeper—it builds trust, strengthens connections,and makes a lasting impact on children and families. In this dynamic session, your teamwill explore how to shift from surface-level involvement to powerful partnerships withfamilies. Staff will gain practical tools to build confidence, communicate with purpose,and empower families as true collaborators in their child’s development. Together,we’ll dive into real questions, explore common challenges, and work through hands-onsolutions to help your team start the year with clarity and confidence. This isn’t justtraining—it’s a mindset shift that fosters stronger, more successful family relationshipsthroughout the year.BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS: Who are our families? Whose job is it to serve them? What is the most important thingthat you want them to know? Answering these important questions is the basis forbuilding strong relationships with families. Utilizing effective communication andcustomer service skills can set the stage for delivering high-quality services andfostering lasting relationships with the families in your program. This session providespractical strategies for approaching every interaction with empathy, clarity, andrespect—especially during those early, impression-forming moments. Participants willreflect on their role in shaping the family experience and learn simple yet powerfultools to build trust, ensure families feel seen and valued, and create a welcomingculture from day one.Transform Family Engagement from a Task into a RelationshipMEANINGFUL FAMILY SERVICES:Family Focused from the First20

P R O G R A M L E A D E R S & A D M I N I S T R A T O R ST R A I N I N G F O R M A T O P T I O N ST A R G E T A U D I E N C EAll sessions are aligned with the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) andthe Program, Family, Community Outcomes Framework (PFCE), ensuring that all training isevidence-based, culturally responsive, and geared toward improving outcomes for all areasof the program.All training formats prioritize active learning, collaboration, and reflective practice,enabling Head Start professionals to enhance their skills and meet the diverse needs of theirprogram area, specific needs, or the program as a whole.Full-Day WorkshopHalf-Day SeminarTwo-Part SeriesIndividualized Support6 hours3 hours2 × 3 hrsOngoing/As neededOn-site or virtual with activitiesKey strategies and application focusDeeper exploration with time to reflectObservation and feedback of processThe training content is especially geared toward supporting leadership in implementing high-quality services and creating meaningful support and change, but can be customized to include: Classroom and Support StaffProgram SpecialistsFamily Support StaffCommunity PartnersFormat Duration Delivery21www.ececollective.cominfo@ececollective.com

Identifying the most effective strategies for meaningful professional development is a crucialaspect of a director’s role. Ensuring that information and activities are geared to all staff andcan benefit everyone present is often a challenge. This session will cover five key componentsof effective professional development, providing details and examples. Creating a culture that empowers and sustains staff is a crucial element for theorganization's success. Directors must find time and resources to keep staff motivated andconnected. Using The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, this session helpsleadership understand the importance of appreciation in fostering a positive workplaceculture and its impact on staff engagement and retention.Building a Culture of Respect and SupportAPPRECIATION IN THE WORKPLACECreating Connection and CapacityPROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT22

The variety of calendars and the diversityof activities can create confusion andinefficiency. Finding a calendar systemthat aligns with your work andmanagement style can enhance yourproductivity and make your dayssmoother, less stressful, and even happier.Using your calendar to create events,keep track of activities, respond toresponsibilities, and fulfill requests is step1, but using a calendar as an effectivetool to ensure success with those tasks isa job well done. A connected team is the foundationof a thriving center. This session willexplore why staff connectionmatters, focusing on how strongbonds improve communication,reduce turnover, and enhancemorale. Directors will gain strategiesfor building a culture of support andtrust where team members feelvalued, connected, and supported.PRODUCTIVE PLANNINGFROM COLLEAGUES TO COMMUNITYCreating a Comprehensive CalendarConnections for a Thriving Staff23

Becoming a Head Start Director is anhonor...and a really big job. So manythings to learn, so many things tointegrate and oversee, so many conceptsto understand. And often, the learning hasto take place all at once while makingthings happen. Making the time to feel settled into therole can be a challenge...and that iswhere a consultant comes in. Someonewho has been there, someone who haswalked the walk. This training can becustomized to meet the director's needs,while providing guidance on the majorresponsibilities of the role.Head Start operates on a veryspecific and required set ofstandards. The Head Start ProgramPerformance Standards are therequirements for all Head Startprograms, regardless of their size orlocation. While the concept of localcontrol applies, all standards mustbe addressed in a program’s policiesand procedures. A consultant can bea supportive and beneficial partnerin ensuring that all standards areincorporated into a cohesive finalproduct.NEW DIRECTOR TRAININGPOLICIES AND PROCEDURES24

One of the most important ways to retain and support staff is by encouragingself-care. Making time and space for opportunities during the day, appreciatingwhen a staff member demonstrates an understanding of the idea, and noticingwhen others offer you a valuable strategy. The benefits of self-care, along withthe blueprint for making it happen, will empower your staff and increase energyin your program.BOUNDARIES, NOT BURN-OUT This session is especially designed for women in the childcare industry.Boundaries will be explored through the analogy of fences—each typerepresenting a different way we protect our time, energy, and well-being.Participants will identify current boundary patterns, reflect on their personalneeds, and create actionable boundary statements to achieve a healthier work-life balance. Through discussion, visuals, and practical strategies, participantswill leave equipped and encouraged to build strong, healthy “fences” thatsupport their purpose and peace.Building Balance in Leadership and LifeSELF-CARE IS NOT SELFISH Taking Care of You So You Can Take Care of Others25

Challenging conversations and meeting difficult situations head-on are amongthe most significant undertakings that a director faces. Whether it’s addressingstaff performance, navigating conflict between team members, or communicatingtough news to families, these moments can feel uncomfortable, but they’re alsoopportunities for growth and trust. This session will help you discover steps tomake the path easier through thoughtful preparation, compassionatecommunication, and meaningful follow-through. Your team will gain strategies toremain calm under pressure, choose the right words at the right time, andrespond, not react, in emotionally charged moments. Walk away with a practicalroadmap to lead difficult conversations with confidence, clarity, and care—because healthy communication builds strong programs.Difficult Conversations with Families and StaffFROM TENSION TO TRUST26

Working with multiple families with varied needs calls for strategic processes. Howcan we focus on the one without neglecting the many? We must determine the mosteffective use of our resources of time, data gathering, and energy to get the bestresults. This is where an orderly, multidisciplinary case management process iseffective. Developing the Case Management Review Team, designing therecordkeeping (paper or digital), and creating the process for communicatingclearly, effectively, and efficiently are the critical steps in a meaningful process. A STRENGTHS-BASED APPROACH TO CASE MANAGEMENTDiscover how to reframe case management through a strengths-based lens thatempowers families and promotes lasting progress. This session equips Head Startstaff with practical tools and strategies to identify, celebrate, and build upon theexisting strengths of each family. Rather than focusing on deficits, participantswill learn how to cultivate genuine partnerships, set collaborative goals, andfoster resilience. Through reflection, discussion, and real-world examples,attendees will leave with a renewed perspective and actionable steps toelevate their family engagement and case management practices.CREATING A MEANINGFULCASE MANAGEMENT PROCESS27

Managing a childcare center is no small feat, and time is a precious resource.Would you like to regain control of your schedule, streamline operations, andboost productivity? In this session, we’ll tackle the traps directors face daily,learn strategies for effective delegation, and explore techniques to stayorganized and focused. Mastering Time Management for Busy DirectorsTIME TO THRIVE28

One of the strongest and most historic aspects of the Head Start program is thereliance on and requirement for parent input into the program's operation. This isaccomplished through the Policy Council, an elected body of parents representingthe program. Coming together regularly, this body approves and plans for programsuccess. They partner with the grantee Board of Directors, Trustees, or otheroversight group that provides a similar service for the grantee. Working together,these two organizations make up the Governing Bodies for the program. Theirharmonious partnership is key to supporting a successful Head Start program.TEAMBUILDING BASICS:Whether we’re talking about classroom teaching partners, office mates, cross-centerconnections, or bridges between programs, teams exist everywhere—and theirability to work well together can make or break a program. Strong teams don’thappen by chance. Building teams that know and respect one another,communicate effectively, and value each person’s role is essential to providing high-quality services to children and families. This interactive session offers practical toolsand fresh strategies to help staff connect, collaborate, and problem-solve withconfidence. Participants will reflect on their own team dynamics and walk away withdoable ideas to strengthen trust, reduce friction, and create a workplace culturewhere together really is better.PRODUCTIVE PARTNERSHIPS: Governance in the Head Start ProgramTogether We Are Better29

C L A S S ® O B S E R V A T I O N SC O A C H I N GC O M M U N I T Y A S S E S S M E N T SC U R R I C U L U M F I D E L I T YS E L F - A S S E S S M E N T S T R A T E G I C P L A N N I N GWe recognize the crucial role assessments play in ensuring that Head Startprograms meet the distinct needs of children and their families. Our expertconsulting services are designed to help your program succeed through targeted,data-driven assessments that foster continuous improvement, compliance, andexcellence.Support ServicesExpertise and Experience: Our consultants have extensive experienceworking with Head Start programs and a deep understanding of federalregulations and quality standards.Customized Solutions: We tailor our services to fit your unique needs, ensuringthat assessments are aligned with your program’s goals and communitycontext.Results-Driven: We are committed to helping you achieve measurableimprovements that benefit both children and families, fostering a thriving andcompliant program.pg. 31pg. 33pg. 34pg. 35pg. 35FROM PLANNING TO PROGRESS: pg. 3130SPECIALIZED SUPPORT SERVICES

We specialize in helping Head Start programs improve classroom interactions andinstructional quality through reliable, research-based CLASS® (Classroom AssessmentScoring System) observations and individualized coaching support. Our services gobeyond compliance — we partner with you to enhance educator effectiveness andcreate richer, more engaging learning environments for children.Experienced & Certified Our consultants are not only certified CLASS® observers but also experienced earlychildhood professionals who understand the Head Start environment.Detailed Observation ReportsWe deliver customized, classroom-specific reports and program-wide trends thatinclude narrative feedback and actionable recommendations. Our insights help youpinpoint strengths and areas for growth, guiding data-driven professionaldevelopment. Our tailored reports empower educators and leaders with clear,personalized feedback they can immediately apply in their daily interactions.CLASS® OBSERVATIONS31

Observation is only the beginning. We believe that effective coaching is essential totranslating CLASS® observation data into meaningful, lasting improvements in theclassroom. That’s why our coaching model is built on relationship-based, reflectivepractice — designed to support educators in building on their strengths, addressingchallenges, and developing their skills in real-time. Our expert coaches are morethan consultants — they are trusted partners in professional growth and workingdirectly with your educators to turn feedback into progress. Our coaches provide: COACHINGOne-on-one or group coaching sessionsVideo reflection and modelingAction planning and goal settingSupport for developing effective teaching strategies that align with CLASS®dimensionsThrough guided reflection and collaborative conversations, teachers feelsupported, not evaluated, leading to real, sustainable change.32

A community assessment is a foundational element of the Head Start planning process.It provides a comprehensive understanding of the local community's demographics,needs, strengths, and resources, which directly informs program design, service delivery,and strategic planning. Conducting a thorough and accurate community assessmentensures that Head Start programs remain responsive, equitable, and effective inmeeting the evolving needs of the children and families they serve. A well-executedcommunity assessment is essential for informed planning, targeted service delivery, andcompliance with the Head Start Program Performance Standards. Whether you'relaunching a new program or updating your current data, we’re here to help. We offersupport not only in gathering and analyzing data, but also in maintaining fidelitythroughout the entire assessment process. This means ensuring that data collectionmethods are aligned with Head Start regulations, that findings are consistentlyinterpreted in context, and that reporting accurately reflects the realities of yourservice area. We help safeguard the integrity of your assessment so that the results arereliable, actionable, and compliant, empowering your team to make informed,strategic decisions rooted in evidence and community voice.Comprehensive Community Assessments for Head Start SuccessDATA-DRIVEN DECISIONS33www.ececollective.cominfo@ececollective.com

CURRICULUM IN ACTIONCurriculum fidelity support in Head Start programs refers to the processes, tools, andprofessional development efforts used to ensure that staff implement a chosen curriculumas it was designed and intended by its developers. High-fidelity implementation iscritical for achieving the curriculum’s intended child outcomes, particularly in supportingschool readiness across the various domains of development. To ensure that your curriculum is implemented with integrity and effectiveness, EarlyChildhood Collective has established a structured process of classroom observationsconducted by trained staff using curriculum fidelity checklists. These observations play acrucial role in maintaining high-quality teaching practices that align with the goals andstructure of your chosen curriculum. The goal is not simply to monitor, but to support.Observers document their findings using both the checklist and anecdotal notes, whichserve as a foundation for meaningful feedback and coaching. Our Curriculum Fidelity Services:Promote accountability and continuous improvement.Help teachers align their practice with evidence-based curriculum methods.Provide targeted support to ensure every child receives high-quality early education.Our structured approach ensures that curriculum implementation is intentional, consistent,and adaptable to the needs of both children and educators, ultimately enhancing childoutcomes in Head Start classrooms.Promoting Fidelity for Lasting Impact34

The implementation of a Self-Assessment Plan is an importantrequirement for all Birth to Five HeadStart programs. This plan is acoordinated effort with manycollaborators. Since there is not a“fill in the blank” model, it should beconsidered carefully whiledetermining the best process underthe local control and customizedneeds of each program. Strategic planning is about providinga shared direction and preventing thechaos that comes with constantreactivity. It is especially helpful in aHead Start environment where peoplewear many hats and serve complexneeds. This process brings clarity.The process can seem overwhelming,but following best practices makes itmanageable and even energizing.Including voices across the programensures that no one feels left out, andusing data ensures that we focus onwhat really matters.SELF-ASSESSMENTSTRATEGIC PLANNING35www.ececollective.cominfo@ececollective.com

At the heart of every thriving Head Startprogram are passionate educators anddedicated leaders who believe deeply inthe power of early childhood educationto change lives. We see you, and weunderstand both the challenges you faceand the incredible rewards that comewith this work.You don’t have to navigate it all alone.We're here to walk beside you—to helpstrengthen your classrooms, uplift yourstaff, and make a meaningful, lastingimpact on the children and families youserve every day.Let’s connect and explore how we canhelp you achieve your goals. Reach outtoday to schedule a free consultation andtake the next step toward building aneven stronger Head Start community.THANK YOUWWW.ECECOLLECTIVE.COMfor your interest in partnering with us.

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