Ready to Learn Training

Scientists are continually amazed by the extent to which early brain development contributes to a child's burgeoning personality and socialization. Mesa United Way's Ready To Learn Initiative focuses on educating the community about this most delicate and complicated organ in straightforward, practical ways.

Since its origins in 2000, the initiative has had far-reaching impact. Originally intended for our Mesa community, we soon discovered that interest in the subject expanded beyond our target group. Our Train-the-Trainer effort has reached every county in Arizona, with over 3,000 trainers currently providing information in their respective communities. Additionally, information about the initiative has been requested from out-of-state and abroad.

“TRAIN THE TRAINER.” Mesa United Way offers a Train-the-Trainer module (at no charge) for people to learn more about early brain development and the Ready To Learn initiative. The program allows Mesa United Way to continue "spreading the word" about the critical importance of early brain development. It is for all those interested in early childhood or who work with children and families, the training includes:

• Information and insights addressing early brain development and its importance to the community
• Approaches to delivering the message to diverse audiences
• Resources available to expand and enhance outreach efforts

Upon completion of training, participants are "certified" to present Ready To Learn to community groups, churches, schools, and businesses. To date, thousands of people across the state and nation have heard Ready To Learn presentations from certified trainers. We are pleased to announce effective January, 2007, this training is a  registered training.  , the Statewide Child Care and Early Education Development System, is the educational registry system for Child Care and Early Education Practitioners in Arizona. Practitioners include child care providers, teachers, assistant teachers, directors, Head Start teachers, public school preschool teachers, elementary teachers, school-age care teachers or ANYONE involved with the care and education of young children.  As of January, 2008, this training has also been approved by Arizona Department of Economic Security for foster parents as an acredited training.

We are most grateful to the many professionals, corporation, and organizations who have contributed to the success of Mesa United Way's Ready To Learn initiative — particularly to United Way of America and Bank of America, whose generous grant awards have made such a difference!  In collaboration with our supporters, we are advancing the latest scientific research to back up common-sense understanding that early experience shapes a child's future.