The name "LifeWays" grew from the realization that what young children need most is the routine activities of a healthy home life, bathed in the warmth of secure relationships - whether they are at home or in childcare. Blessing to use the name was given by Gudrun Davy, Bons Voors, Patti Smith and Signe Schaefer (editors of the two Lifeways books) and Lee Sturgeon-Day, who uses the name in her biography and counseling work. With their blessing in place, the first LifeWays Center was opened in Wisconsin in September 1998 as a pilot childcare project for children three months to six years old and host to the first LifeWays training.
The LifeWays approach can not only enrich home life for parents who are able to stay home with their young children, but it can help to transform the approach to childcare in this country to one that is relationship-based and family oriented. If you are an in-home care provider or if you work in a center and resonate with the LifeWays principles and practicies, we hope you will learn more about LifeWays by visiting their website (www.lifewaysnorthamerica.org). Particularly in the world of childcare and parent education, a recognizable name or approach often helps parents feel more secure in their decision to place their children in the care of another.
LifeWays training and certification is invaluable for parents (and grandparenst and nannies!) as well as preschool teachers and childcare providers. In 2011, this program is being offered part-time in several locations throughout North America: Maine, Wisconsin, Colorado, California, Texas and Hawaii. The program involves coming together for classes at various times over 9-13 months, plus guided work at home between sessions. Both the amount of time and the fees are designed to make it more possible for parents with young children and for teachers/providers to attend. If you are interested in a new career or in enriching your home or teaching experience, contact LifeWays today!
National Office:
Cynthia Aldinger, Director
403 Piney Oak Dr.
Norman, OK 73072
(405) 579-0999
ck.aldinger@sbcglobal.net
www.lifewaysnorthamerica.org
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