Family Strength Associates Inc

Programs: New jersey child care training program ("njcctp") provided 110 workshops, training approximately 3,500 participants in 2012. The program is funded through the nj department of human services, division of family development, to provide accessible, comprehensive, and high quality training to childcare providers throughout new jersey. State required topics include child development, behavior management, curriculum development, health and safety in the classroom and communication with families. Fsa also provides relevant topics such as anti-bullying and teasing in preschool classrooms, active approaches to childhood obesity, working with diverse families, conflict resolution for school-age children, and stress management for teachers. The grant also provides funds for the cultural competency and english language learners summer institute and mentoring program. This program provides 3-full days of training to help teachers create a culturally sensitive classroom environment that supports second language learners. The teachers also receive nine months of mentoring/coaching support.

onsite workshops are provided at numerous child care centers throughout the state of new jersey. The organization strives to provide workshops on important and current topics revolving around child care. As referenced by the name, these workshops are held onsite at the child care locations. This year there were 90 workshops and approximately 1,610 participants.

child development associates ("cda") classes result in child care providers receiving the national cda professional certification. Each candidate for the cda credential must receive over 120 hours of course instruction, work with young children in groups for over 480 hours, and complete a professional resource file before submitting the application for the credential. Each individual must receive a formal observation while working in a lead teacher position with a group of infant and toddlers or preschoolers. Additional requirements include having parents complete a survey about the candidate and basic written and oral exams. After this process is completed everything is sent to the council for professional recognition in washington, dc for the final determination of a candidates standing.