April 22nd-28th is the annual celebration for the Week of the Young Child. Its purpose is to focus attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize early childhood programs and services which lay the future success of our very young children.
We as a society can ensure that children have a solid foundation for the future. Quality early education is essential to healthy brain development and is the necessary first step in a child’s education. When at risk children receive quality early education, they can make up developmental gaps from the early years and enter kindergarten at the grade level. In Pennsylvania alone, we know that support of quality pre-k programs could save $1 million dollars in special education costs. On a global scale, investing in our children at a young age can only improve the quality of our education and therefore the quality of our future workforce. The return on investment is unquestionable.
What distinguishes effective programs?
- Qualified personnel
- Small group size and high adult-child ratios
- Language rich environment
- Developmentally appropriate curriculum
- Safe physical setting
- Warm and responsive adult-child interactions
What can each of us do?
- Read a book to your child, grandchild, niece, or nephew
- Recognize your child’s teacher
- Use daily activities as teachable moments for your child
- Volunteer in your church, afterschool programs, and nonprofit organizations that work with children
- Spread the word!
Don’t forget:
This Thursday April 26, at 5:00 pm in the forum of the Barber National Institute a free seminar for parents and professionals will be presented on “Portable Devices in Home and in School.” Attendees are encouraged to bring their iPad or iTouch with them; for reservations call 814-480-6831. Click here for the Portable Devices in Home and in School Flyer.
The Autism Society will be giving away a free iPad to one lucky person. All current Autism Society members are eligible win. All you need to do is complete this online form to enter the contest. The winner will be chosen April 30 and will be notified via email.
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