Guide
Daycare Atypical-Behavior Identification & Effective Communication
Helping daycare centers identify atypical development and communicate compassionately with parents.
EducatorsParents
Summary. Adapted from E-R's 2014 NYS CEC proposal: practical guidance for daycare staff and parents on early identification, Effective Communication Training (ECT), and trusted developmental-milestone resources from birth to age 5.
Why It Matters
Most daycare facilities are not yet qualified to identify atypical behaviors or developmental delays. Parents may be in denial, unaware of severity, or fearful of stigma. Without ongoing teacher and parent training, children lose precious early-intervention time.
Effective Communication Training (ECT)
- Ongoing teacher and parent workshops using early-childhood developmental rubrics.
- Build accountability between daycare facilities and families.
- Reduce stereotyping of special-needs children and their families.
- Bridge the gap between observation and family conversation.
How E-R Helps
- Onsite advocacy, consultation, and mediation between parents and teachers.
- Connections through the Community Care Network-Resource System (CCNRS).
- Referrals to Educational Advocates for evaluations and related services.
- Direct outreach to facilities to educate all learners.
Trusted Developmental Resources (Birth–5)
- CDC "Learn the Signs. Act Early." — milestones from 3 months to 5 years.
- American Academy of Pediatrics — developmental stages from birth to 21.
- PBS Whole Child & PBS Parents — domain-by-domain development overview.
- University of Michigan Health System — milestone list based on AAP and ZERO TO THREE.
- First Signs — warning signs and steps to take.
- Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional (ASQ:SE).