Introduction 

Caring for infants and toddlers is a big responsibility under "normal" conditions. However, when something unforeseen happens, such as a natural disaster or emergency event, caring for children becomes an even greater responsibility. 

Throughout the year, CCAoA monitors the latest, most important research findings about child care. The information deserves a wide audience, so we’re launching Child Care Research: Year in Review to share some of the most significant studies from the past year.

Understanding Food Allergy Education Needs in Early Childhood Schools 

Fierstein, J.L., Chadha, A.S., Valaika, S.S., and Gupta, R.S. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (November 2019). 

Background: Food allergies affect 5.6 million children in the United States, including about 8% of pre-Kindergarten children. Children in early care and education programs are at a particularly high risk for allergic reactions due to cross-contamination of foods, label-reading errors, and accidental ingestion. Early childhood educators need to be trained in how to manage food allergy risks and respond to allergic reactions, but much of the training they receive is modified from trainings for school-age teachers. This study looks at how often early childhood educators manage food allergies and what they need from food allergy trainings.   

Associations Between Screen-Based Media Use and Brain White Matter Integrity in Preschool-Aged Children Hutton, J.S., Dudley, J., Horowitz-Kraus, T., DeWitt, T., and Holland, S.K. JAMA Pediatrics (November 2019). 

Background: Many children under age 6 regularly spend time in front of TVs, computers and digital devices. Research shows that too much screen time at an early age can affect children’s behavior and cognitive development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting screen time, viewing along with adults, and accessing only educational, developmentally-appropriate content. This study looks at the connection between screen time and development in the parts of the brain responsible for language and literacy.  

The Problem

Child care professionals are aware that workplace stress can affect their physical and emotional health. They many want to reduce their stress levels, but need help identifying and implementing effective strategies. 

Happy New Year! It's finally 2020, Census year. You've been preparing and now it's here.  While the Census will occur throughout the year, in some parts of the country the count will begin as early as this month.  

New research shows that much work needs to be done to help families understand the importance of participating in the Census. Child care providers and Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (CCR&Rs) can play an important role sharing these messages.