Southern Chapter - NJCITE

The Coalition of Infant/Toddler Educators (CITE), southern chapter consists of many counties; Atlantic, Burlington, Cape May, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem. CITE South is a professional association dedicated to the care, education, and well-being of infants and toddlers, typically ranging from birth to age three. CITE Southern Chapter is an extension of  the Association and serves a variety of purposes and functions, including advocacy, education, and resource-sharing for childcare providers, parents, and policymakers.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the CITE Southern Chapter is to enhance the quality of infant and toddler care by supporting childcare providers through professional development, credentialing programs, and opportunities for networking. By fostering collaboration and continuous learning, we aim to improve the standards of care for infants and toddlers in our southern region.

Mission

Our mission is to empower infant and toddler childcare providers by offering resources, training, and support that enhance their professional skills and knowledge. We are committed to advocating for high-quality care, creating a community of engaged providers, and ensuring that every child has access to nurturing and developmentally appropriate care.

Vision

We envision a southern region where all infants and toddlers receive high-quality childcare from knowledgeable, credentialed providers. We aim to be the leading organization that inspires and supports early childhood professionals, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes best practices in infant and toddler care.

Goals

1. Credentialing Support: Develop and promote comprehensive credentialing programs that recognize the expertise of infant and toddler childcare providers, ensuring that they meet or exceed industry standards.
2. Professional Development: Organize workshops, seminars, and training sessions on critical topics related to infant and toddler care, including child development, health and safety, curriculum development, and family engagement.
3. Networking Opportunities: Create spaces for childcare providers to connect, share experiences, and build relationships through regular networking events, online forums, and collaboration projects.
4. Advocacy: Serve as a representative voice for infant and toddler providers in discussions related to early childhood policy, funding, and community resources, advocating for the needs and concerns of providers and families alike.
5. Resource Development: Provide access to a wealth of resources, including research, best practices, and tools that empower providers to enhance their childcare environments and improve outcomes for children.