| Abstract: |
Basic information that should be considered by a state when gathering data necessary to planning for child development programs, with emphasis on the five-year-old and under group, is provided. State assessment efforts are assumed to be comprised of at least four steps: (1) gathering the data, (2) assessing the data to determine needs, (3) utilizing the data and assessment for the development of a comprehensive state early childhood plan, and (4) informing the public about activities for broad interpretation and for support. The Planning Structure, Chapter II of this handbook, discusses why a needs assessment should be conducted, the planning responsibility, and steps that should be taken by the governor or legislature. Chapter III, The Data-Gathering Model, discusses basic needs that should be considered in order to increase the effectiveness of the data-gathering activities, basic information that is available through the 1970 census tapes, other data required (current child care and related services, manpower resources, administrative mechanisms, legal constraints, financial provisions, and other resources), local attitudes and demands, use of the computer, head count vs. sampling techniques, costs. The final chapter, IV, The Public Relations Effort, discusses the purpose of a state public information program in the early childhood field, the responsibility for development and implementation of the program, and information activities. An appendix provides the results of a Survey of State Needs Assessment Activities conducted in Fall 1972. A list of ECS Early Childhood Project publications is provided. (DB) |