Dr. Matthew J. Devereaux

Assistant Professor

I am an Assistant Professor with the University of Tennessee Extension Service in the area of Child Development. Specifically, I focus much of my attention and work on the first 5 years of life. My primary role is to
create research-based curricula, training and state-wide educational programming for our 95 Extension Counties across the state of Tennessee. In turn, our County Extension Agents provide these resources to individuals
who really need the information through workshops and intensive educational programming.

I joined the Family and Consumer Sciences Department in 2000. During this time I have focused much of my attention on child care provider training. In 2001, I developed a state-mandated pre-service training for all new childcare teachers and directors of which over 40,000 professionals have participated. Also, I spend much of my time securing grant funding for a multitude of program areas such as food safety in childcare programs, youth
programming, family resource center programming and other areas.

Currently, I have introduced a new state-wide initiative titled, "Windows of Opportunity". This program focuses on two main areas essential for the successful development of infants and toddlers. These two areas are literacy and social/emotional development. This program consists of curricula, evaluation tools, media and marketing packets, resource packets, displays, etc. to help our agents deliver this education program to at-risk parents and childcare providers.

Soon, I will be rolling out a program called "Step Ahead". This will be an on-line course available nationally which will help childcare classroom teachers who are looking to become a Director of a childcare or afterschool program get a "leg up" on their competition. This course will focus on the relationships, communication skills, conflict resolution, dealing with parents, etc. and will provide them with the skills necessary for running a successful program. Much of a Director's time is not spent in the classroom or even doing paperwork for that matter, but is spent dealing with personnel and clientele issues.

My content areas that I am currently focused is brain development and the first three years of life, men as parents, working with Hispanic/Latino audiences and communication/relationships specifically with childcare workplace environments.

Contact Information

1215 W. Cumberland Ave
115 Jessie Harris Building
Knoxville, TN 37996-1912

Phone: 865-974-7193
Email: mdevereaux@utk.edu

Contact CEHHS

335 Claxton Complex 1122 Volunteer Boulevard
Knoxville, Tennessee 37996

Phone: 865-974-2201
Fax: 865-974-8718