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Information About
The following chart presents the accreditation criteria for this topic area. Each criterion provides specific details to guide program plans, policies and practices. The criteria are numbered (01, 02, 03, etc.) within their topic area. Each criterion within each program standard is identified by its relevant age group (or groups). Many criteria are identified as "universal" (U), meaning that all classrooms and programs pursuing NAEYC Accreditation must address these criteria. These aspects of quality should be seen in any programs or classrooms serving birth through kindergarten, though they may look somewhat different in practice depending on the children's age.
Age Groups:
U = universal
I = infant
T = toddlers/twos
P = preschool
K = kindergarten
8.A.
Linking with the Community
8.A.01
U I T P K
Program staff maintain a current list of child and family support services available in the community based on the pattern of needs they observe among families and based on what families request (e.g., health, mental health, oral health, nutrition, child welfare, parenting programs, early intervention-special education screening and assessment services, and basic needs such as housing and child care subsidies). They share the list with families and assist them in locating, contacting, and using community resources that support children's and families' well-being and development.
8.A.02
U I T P K
Program staff develop partnerships and professional relationships with agencies, consultants, and organizations in the community that further the program's capacity to meet the needs and interests of the children and families that they serve.
8.A.03
U I T P K
Program staff are familiar with family support services and specialized consultants who are able to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services. They use this knowledge to suggest and guide families to these services as appropriate.
8.A.04
U I T P K
Program staff encourage continuity of services for children by communicating with other agencies and programs to achieve mutually desired outcomes for children and to guide collaborative work.
8.A.05
U I T P K
Program staff identify and establish relationships with specialized consultants who can assist all children's and families' full participation in the program. This assistance includes support for children with disabilities, behavioral challenges, or other
special needs.
8.A.06
U I T P K
Program staff advocate for the program and its families by creating awareness of the program's needs among community councils, service agencies, and local governmental entities. (This criterion is an Emerging Practice.)
8.A.07
U I T P K
Program staff include information gathered from stakeholders in planning for continuous improvement, building stakeholder involvement in the program, and broadening community support for the program. (This criterion is an Emerging Practice.)
