Child Development Workers (CDWs) from Victoria and Gerona gathered on April 30, 2026, for a one-day training under Project START UP (Sustainable Training Assistance and Revitalized Teaching Upskilling Performance).
A short message was delivered by Ms. Catherine V. Gacutan, MSWD Officer, together with Hon. Mary Jaeefredeen Arm Viernes, Committee Chairman on Women and Family, and Acting Mayor Hon. Tristan Reevo P. Guiam, Municipal Vice Mayor. They emphasized the importance of the partnership with Tarlac State University and highlighted the value of camaraderie between the municipalities of Gerona and Victoria.
The morning session was led by Asst. Prof. Laarni T. Capinding, Faculty Member of the College of Education and Head of the Curriculum Standards Management Unit at Tarlac State University. She discussed “Supporting Children’s Mental Health and Well-Being,” beginning with an activity that explored students’ emotions through the movie Inside Out. The session underscored the importance of children's mental health, identified warning signs that may affect their well-being, and emphasized the role of CDWs in understanding children's emotions and responding appropriately. She also stressed that despite mental health challenges, children can continue to thrive with proper support.
In the afternoon session, “Guiding Responsive Outcomes through Whole-Child Theories and Holistic Development” was presented by ECE advocate Dr. Joanne Marie I. Escalona. She opened with an icebreaker activity titled “Growing Up Moments” and discussed the objectives and practical applications of various developmental theories relevant to Child Development Workers. She emphasized the importance of these theories in understanding children's growth and behavior and in fostering their overall development.
The training featured a combination of digital learning, interactive discussions, group activities, and icebreakers, providing participants with practical knowledge and strategies to enhance the quality of early childhood care and education.
