Distinctively Christian: A Christ-centered Approach to Early Childhood Spiritual Development

“Distinctively Christian provides a detailed guide for evaluating current practices, directing change in the classroom and program, and assessing effectiveness. Written specifically for the Christian early educator, guides a program in self-reflection to ascertain its effectiveness in realizing its stated mission, vision, and desired outcomes for the faith development of children. Consider this a necessary field guide to navigate the (often complex) landscape of a child’s soul. It’s both a reference manual and instructional text; it inspires meaningful action. Dr. Uecker brings the sum of his experience, education, and expertise to this writing as a strategic investment in the next generation.” D’Arcy Maher Former Editor for Christian Early Education Magazine Former Director of Early Education Services, ACSI Topics Within the Book Include: An examination of the stages of faith development The importance of “Living Curriculum” through relationships and Community The importance of defining a programs mission, vision, and outcomes as a framework for curriculum An emphasis on the Bible’s One redemptive story as the context for the Gospel Chapters on introducing each aspect of worldview to young children. The nature of God, Truth, Value, and Humanity The need for assessing the child’s spiritual growth “Truly the most significant and comprehensive work that I have read describing the components of a truly Distinctive Christian early education program! A must-read for early educators in the Christian school movement!” Sara Jo Dillard Director of Early Education Resources at the Association of Christian Schools International 2002 Recipient of the Roy W. Lowrie Jr. Leadership Award “Excellent resource! As a grandparent of nine grandchildren, I want to get this book into the hands of each of my daughters, so they may better understand the elements, process, and stages of spiritual formation in the lives of those we’ve been entrusted to raise. Every educator and parent should read this book!” Jeffrey Mattner, Ed.D. Regional Director ACSI Mid-America Region “Distinctively Christian is skillfully interwoven with invaluable insights from a lifetime of teaching and investing in the next generation of teachers!” Jenni Bacon Miller Director, School Ministries Ohio “Long recognized in the Christian school movement as the “go to” expert on child development, Dr. Uecker’s insights into the spiritual formation of children flow throughout this book.” Todd R. Marrah, Ph.D. School Superintendent “Dr. Uecker has created a working manual for Christian early education. “A clear, attainable plan for establishing an early childhood program based on the Christian worldview. From developing a mission statement to implementing a living curriculum all the way to measuring outcomes with appropriate assessment – readers will have tangible action points to set a distinctively Christian preschool program in motion.” Stacia Emerson, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Early Childhood and Family Studies Southern Wesleyan University