Learning doesn’t start on the first day of Kindergarten, so why wait until then to start a child’s education?
Families in the South of Downtown neighborhood had a chance to kick-start their preschool-aged children’s education at an Early Childhood Fair at Everett Elementary on November 2, 2017. The event hosted by the school, Everett’s Community Learning Center (CLC), the South of Downtown Community Development Organization and Prosper Lincoln introduced families to fun activities that help young children learn and develop.
One highlight for families was making edible play-dough out of pumpkin. “The recipe allowed children to practice basic counting and taking turns with peers,” said Michelle Suarez, Prosper Lincoln Early Childhood Developer. “They used their imagination to make a new creation which helps with literacy and language.”
Other activities included read-aloud time provided by Lincoln City Libraries, yoga, multicultural games and making cereal necklaces.
“One hope was that the parents would see some everyday ways to make play and learning go hand-in-hand for their young children,” said Kathy Johnson, PhD, Everett Elementary Psychologist. “It was heart-warming to watch the parents and children play together.”
Many parents in attendance had previously participated in the Strengthening Families curriculum that helped them learn hands-on ways of nurturing their young child’s development. “I could see the confidence on their faces as they walked into the fair and knew exactly what to do with their children,” said Suarez.
“It is so important for kids to learn literacy skills at an early age,” said Michael Long, Principal at Everett Elementary. “It was a fun night for families.”
Early Childhood Homebase Educators at Lincoln Public Schools initiated the early childhood fair concept and developed the ideas for activities.
The fair was well received by parents and children. Partners are considering ways to offer the model at additional schools, with teen parents, churches and other community locations.
If you would like more information or would like to host an early childhood fair, please contact Michelle Suarez at michelle.suarez@prosperlincoln.org.