An integrated, research-based approach to building quality care and education programs The Virtual Lab School (VLS) empowers child care professionals to build their knowledge and improve their practices through a robust online professional development system. Designed for child and youth professionals across all roles and functions, the VLS provides evidenced-based content, demonstration. The CORT (Caregiving Observation and Reflection Tool) provides a systematic framework to observe and document interactions and experiences that occur within a classroom. Training & Curriculum Specialists or Program Managers should use this tool to carefully observe and record a caregiver’s use of these key practices and document their strengths and opportunities for growth. Refer to the CORT. It also aligns with our commitment to continuously improve the VLS system. The removal of suggested responses is intended to encourage critical thinking among adult learners and application of lesson content in original and creative ways. In this webinar, we provide an overview of the VLS professional development system, including the essential elements of our VLS content and how the system is structured to support adult learners. We highlight strategies for orienting new CYP professionals to the VLS and expectations for engagement with the system. All VLS content emphasizes developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and family-focused approaches. Using the Learn, Explore, Apply, Demonstrate (LEAD) framework within each lesson, the VLS helps professionals develop competencies that support children’s optimal development and provide practical tools and resources to promote high quality programs. Within the VLS, the terms special needs and disability are often used interchangeably. It is important to note that while the two terms have similar meanings, the word disability is generally used to refer to a long-term condition or impairment that impacts the way a child or youth learns, participates, or interacts with the world around them. Introduction The CORT provides a systematic framework to observe and document interactions and experiences that occur within a classroom. The goal of this measure is to assess and document a caregiver’s strengths and areas for growth by observing actual caregiving practices. This measure covers the many domains that make up a high-quality child care environment. The observation tool is. VLS Content Library Our professional development blends the science of adult learning with research‑informed practices that support high‑quality child and youth programs. The VLS provides practical training with real‑world videos, activities, and resources to build and strengthen effective teaching and caregiving. Our content library provides foundational and specialized training for all. VLS Activity Update 02 Jun 2026 Suggested Responses No Longer Available for Direct Care Users Explore and Apply activities in the Foundational and Focused Topics courses have been updated, and suggested responses have been removed. The Infant & Toddler track is intended for early childhood professionals serving children ages 6 weeks through 3 years in center based programs. This track offers training and professional development resources, including written narrative, video, skill building activities, and classroom tools. The Infant & Toddler track consists of courses that mirror the core Child Development Associate (CDA.