Affirming Children's Roots: Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Early Care and Education.

This report documents for the first time the growing ethnic mix of center-based child care in California. Based on a survey of 434 centers in 5 California counties selected for their ethnic and geographic diversity and large child populations, the report presents several types of information. First, it documents the scope of the demographic challenges facing child care centers by presenting the findings of the demographic analysis of the centers surveyed. Second, the report provides an understanding of the importance of culturally and linguistically appropriate early care and education by referring to relevant research and literature. Finally, the report describes the everyday activities of several innovative child care centers in California that offer examples of culturally and linguistically appropriate care. The report makes recommendations for further research and calls for immediate action from the following groups: (1) California state agencies; (2) the federal government; (3) professional associations; (4) the statewide resource and referral network in California; (5) training institutions; and (6) private foundations. Three appendixes contain a methodology report, the child care center survey instrument, and a 63-item annotated list of books, articles, and other materials. A separate 8-page "Executive Summary" is appended. (TJQ)