Community Connections for Children | ELRC

Written by: Christy S. Renjilian Support. Meaningful support. What does it look like for you? In 2022, it’s an absolute necessity. For me, for you, for everyone in your life, particularly those who are caregivers, nurturers, and teachers. Meaningful support lets you know you are seen and valued. It aligns with your needs. Specific needs, because there is no one size fits all.  When things are hard and the struggle is real, that’s when you need it most. Don’t know how to start providing meaningful support? Well, step one is to listen.   And listen deep.  When it comes to educators,… read more »

Eleven years ago, a new face appeared at our CCC staff meeting!  When Gretchen was introduced as the new Administrative Assistant and gave us a smile and a few comments, we could tell what a kind and gentle person she was.  As we all had passing conversations with her through the years, she was always polite, genuinely interested in what we were talking about, and would share a spark of her humor from time to time.  Among her responsibilities as Administrative Assistant, one gave time back to the STARS staff by creating, mailing certificates and letters to providers for which… read more »

ELRC Region 9 (Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon and Perry Counties) currently does not have a waiting list. ELRC Region 10 (Adams, Lancaster and York Counties) currently does not have a waiting list.

And a New Perspective and Meaning of Gratitude Gratitude. It’s talked about and referenced a lot this time of year.  But it isn’t simply ‘being thankful.’ Or ‘counting your blessings.’ Gratitude is both a mindset and an action.  It’s knowing that what you have and who you are is enough.  It’s the belief that no matter what comes, there is always something to be thankful for, even though it might be hard to identify at first.  It’s foundational to how we treat ourselves and each other.   As an action, gratitude is how we give of our time, treasure, and talents… read more »

And What Employers Can Do About Burnout and Fatigue The American workforce is exhausted, discouraged, anxious, and overwhelmed. It’s clear. Maybe you’re even feeling that way. And certainly, you know a handful of people who have expressed those emotions this fall.  Headline after headline captures those sentiments. And yet… Your people are still showing up. Your people still care about their jobs and do their best. And they continue to make a difference for those they serve. But when more than 750,000 people die from COVID in your country in a year and a half, it’s going to impact your… read more »

Plus, 4 Best Practices to Consider When Applying Written by: Christy S. Renjilian You know that the economy has taken a hit in the last year and a half. How could it not? With shutdowns, stock market fluctuations, supply chain implications.  But did you know there is a crisis in the childcare industry?  The funding model isn’t stainable, and it’s at a breaking point.  The impact on children, families, educators, and businesses is huge. For educators, the business model is built on low wages. Families can’t afford the true cost of care, and most can’t even afford the tuition that… read more »

Self Compassion vs. Self Care, A Leader’s Guide Plus, How to Strive for Resilient Leadership in a Modern World Written By: Christy S. Renjilian Did you know that September is National Self Care Awareness Month?  Established in 2017 by Evolve to Live (link at bottom), it was created to help people build a self-care habit and pursue a connected life.  And if you’re like me, it’s a great reminder… to pursue a connected life by building a self-care habit. It’s not a static thing, self-care. It continues to evolve and grow, just like you. With the Olympics wrapping up, football… read more »

So, sure, this topic is a little late, but I still think there are lessons we can learn from the athletes of the 2020, now 2021, Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The American spirit was on full display, the best of the best competing for the gold seemed to bring our nation together in a time of pandemic, politics, and uncertainty. And likely, you were into it too. There were tears and upsets. Photo finishes and unbelievable world records set. Some of your favorite familiar faces and new ones alike, competing in some events you know well and some new ones… read more »

As the Early Learning Resource Center for York County, and with our nearly 35 year history of serving York County youngest learners, we are dismayed by leaders who discriminate.  The rationalization of this behavior through comments such as wanting to ensure balance in books and fears of indoctrination are troublesome.  All children and families deserve to be represented in their educational materials and resources.  All children need to be presented with honest, well rounded information about our history, a variety of opinions, and encouraged to think for themselves.  Anything less, is in fact supporting the very indoctrination and imbalance the… read more »

Back to School: A Focus on 5th Grade and Getting Off on the Right Foot With Real Thoughts From a Fifth Grade Student and Teachers Written By: Christy S. Renjilian Ahhh, remember your fifth-grade self? And those feelings you had as you started the school year? Your interests, friends, and what made you, well, you? You were geared up with whatever the new fad was. Maybe it was a bookbag brand, maybe a shoe, or those metal lunchboxes with the matching thermos. Either way, you were living your best life. Hopefully, you had a strong, positive influence in fifth grade,… read more »