Congregations and Child Care: A Self-Study. A Guide for Churches, Synagogues, and Other Houses of Worship and Their Early Childhood Programs. (Revised Edition).

This self-study serves as a guide for churches and early childhood education programs, focusing on the relationship between a congregation and its early childhood program. A revision of an earlier self-study which was developed by a Seattle-based team of church-related early childhood professionals, the study complements the accreditation program of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The model self-study requires about 10 hours per month, for 4 to 6 months for the program director, and 5 hours per month for congregational leaders. Following an introduction, the sections of the guide are: (1) "Self-Study Process," including a flow-chart; (2) "Recognition Process," including document review, commission review, recognition fee structure, and Mentor Assistance Program; (3) "Commitment," (4) "Instructions for Pre-Test," covering purpose, procedure, and ratings; (5) "Pre-Test/Goals and Criteria," focusing on ministry/mission, governance, administration, and finance; (6) "Tasks and Time Line Work Sheet"; (7) "Post-Test"; and (8) "Resources," listing resources for early childhood programs in the self-study process. An appendix contains a glossary, an annual review report, and guidelines for writing a mission statement for a childcare program. (BGC)