Mind in the Making

When does learning begin and how is it nurtured? What role does social and emotional development play? Are we born with an innate drive to solve problems? These are just a few of the fascinating questions addressed in Mind in the Making: The Science of Early Learning, a multi-faceted communications project developed by the Families and Work Institute (FWI). After years of identifying, filming, and translating the most rigorous and compelling research on early learning, FWI is now beginning to pilot the program at selected sites across the country.

In March 2006, Mind in the Making made its Rhode Island debut at R2LP. With funding from the United Way, R2LP offered the six-day program to 30 participants who agree to facilitate at least two sessions for early-care providers and educators in the next few years.

The Mind in the Making program consists of twelve learning modules designed to bridge the gap between research and practice in the classroom. FWI says it is not a training program, but rather “a facilitated learning process that engages teachers in a process of self-discovery aimed at improving teaching practice.” The modules are intended to complement or enhance existing curricula and training materials.

“The ultimate purpose of this program is to bring the latest information on child development and learning to those who work with our youngest children,” explains Ellen Galinsky, president and co-founder of the Families and Work Institute. Ms Galinsky is a national policy leader and an advocate for family and work issues. She appears regularly on programs such as The Today Show, Good Morning America, 20/20 and Oprah.

Representatives from FWI led the initial program at R2LP, which was held in two three-day sessions. Some of the participants in this first session were members of the R2LP staff, but many participants came from other organizations and educational centers involved with school readiness and early learning. Upon completion of their training, these participants were paired up to serve as facilitators for nine additional sessions funded with the United Way grant.

In addition to videos and workbooks developed for the learning modules, FWI is filming and editing a three-part television program – also titled Mind in the Making and covering much of the same material – that is expected to air in late 2006. The television program, like the learning modules, will look at how children learn, the skills they need for a successful start in school, the link between emotional and cognitive development, and instructional approaches that have achieved results.

National research for Mind in the Making was compiled from nearly two dozen scholars and early childhood authorities. But while the content is based on the most sophisticated science available, the videos, workbooks and television programs present the material in an accessible and highly compelling format.

“Mind in the Making is going to trigger a national conversation on early learning and emotional development,” predicts Joyce Butler, director of Ready to Learn Providence. “I’m delighted that we are playing an integral role in disseminating the information and furthering this discussion here in Providence.”

Founded in 1989, the Families and Work Institute is a nonprofit center for research that provides data to inform decision-making on the changing workforce, family and community. FWI’s research typically tackles emerging issues before they crest and often changes the language of debates.

For more information on Mind in the Making please contact Magda Ortiz at 490-9960.