https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/ Turning early learning data into meaningful stories through the WELS Exchange Hub ecosystem. en-us © 2026 WELS Foundation, Inc. support@welsfoundation.org (WELS Foundation) Tue, 15 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/images/brand/wels-Brandmark_RGB_Full_Color.png https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/ https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/the-block-corner-is-doing-more-than-you-think https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/the-block-corner-is-doing-more-than-you-think A plain-language guide to Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) for educators, directors, and families — the three core considerations, the nine principles, and what the research says about play, screens, and pushing academics too early. Muriel Wong quality-initiatives Tue, 15 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/back-to-school-toolkit-for-providers https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/back-to-school-toolkit-for-providers Free back-to-school resources for early learning providers: a welcome letter, a day-one checklist, and first drop-off tips — ready to copy or use as-is. Emily Snowden educator-portal Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/elevated-miami-educator-portal https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/elevated-miami-educator-portal Discover how Miami's ElevatEd system empowers 6,800+ early childhood educators through professional development, credentialing, and the A$CEND wage supplement program. Dasiely Cruz educator-portal Mon, 22 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/routines-matter-children-families https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/routines-matter-children-families Research shows daily routines reduce stress, strengthen executive function, and support brain development. Age-specific guidance for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers at home and school. Muriel Wong educator-portal Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/red-flags-choosing-early-education https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/red-flags-choosing-early-education Learn the four biggest warning signs when evaluating a childcare center — from poor communication to developmental blind spots — and what great programs look like instead. Dr. Tre'vone L. McNeill quality-initiatives Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/power-of-repetition-child-learning https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/power-of-repetition-child-learning That familiar 'Again, again!' is science in action. Discover why repetition is a fundamental early childhood learning tool and how caregivers can respond thoughtfully. Emily Snowden family-portal Mon, 29 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/kindergarten-readiness https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/kindergarten-readiness Kindergarten readiness goes beyond academics. Explore strategies for families, childcare providers, and teachers to support a smooth, joyful transition to kindergarten. Dasiely Cruz family-portal Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/baby-home-safety https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/baby-home-safety A room-by-room childproofing guide for parents. Covers safe sleep, dangerous items, bathroom hazards, pool safety, and the four highest-risk moments in your baby's daily routine. Natalia Coletti family-portal Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/power-of-play-brain-development https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/power-of-play-brain-development Play is one of the best things you can do for your child's development. Discover how movement and play build cognitive, physical, social-emotional, and communication skills from infancy through preschool. Laura Mallery family-portal Tue, 06 May 2025 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/raising-bilingual-children-tips https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/raising-bilingual-children-tips Research-backed strategies for raising bilingual children from infancy through preschool. Covers OPOL, home immersion, cultural exposure, and how to support dual language development. Dasiely Cruz family-portal Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/aap-screen-time-guidelines-children https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/aap-screen-time-guidelines-children The AAP shifted from strict time limits to family media planning. Here's what actually changed in their screen time guidelines and what it means for your family's daily routine. Emily Snowden family-portal Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:00:00 GMT https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/breastfeeding-support-early-care-education https://welsfoundation.org/exchangestories/post/breastfeeding-support-early-care-education Practical guidance for childcare providers, preschool teachers, and breastfeeding mothers on supporting continued breastfeeding after returning to work. Natalia Coletti educator-portal Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:00:00 GMT