Like other three-and-a-half-year-old boys, Chad is full of big ideas and lots of energy. Chad was eager to learn and played well with the other children at his child care. But one day his behavior suddenly, and drastically, changed.

Chad’s behavior was not indicative of the child they knew

Chad became disruptive in the classroom, throwing objects and throwing tantrums. He began to cry whenever teachers left the classroom or when he wanted their full attention. Tess, the director of Chad’s child care center, loves working with children and has years of experience. She knew that Chad was one of five siblings being raised by a single mother, and that things at home were less than ideal. But although she and Chad’s teachers tried everything they could think of, they just couldn’t seem to reach him.

Volunteers of America helped Chad and his child care provider Tess 

Then Tess called Volunteers of America Child Care Resource and Referral program, which helps at-risk children like Chad become school-ready by providing consulting, tools and skills to the child care providers that serve them. Our Behavioral Specialist went to the center, met with Tess and the teachers, and observed Chad’s interactions.  When Chad acted out, she was there to model ways of de-escalating the meltdown and to help Chad develop self-soothing skills. And she helped Chad’s mom, too, by providing resources on how she can best work with Chad’s behavior and address the outside stressors that cause him to act out.

 Tess appreciates the assistance and feels that the program has helped Chad get back on track. "Having the Behavioral Specialist come to our program has been a tremendous help to our staff," ecalls Tess."Her support has been key."

 Now Chad is back to acting like his old preschool self. But when he stumbles, and we all do when we are under stress, confused or upset, he, Tess and his teachers know what to do. Getting his emotions under control will give Chad a chance to take on his next challenge, the big world of kindergarten.

It is never too early

 Early childhood experiences not only foster confidence and self-worth, but also provide positive guidance that help them reach their potential and soar.  Help us help children succeed, in school and - most importantly - in life.