For a small child there is no division between playing and learning; between the things he or she does ‘just for fun’ and things that are ‘educational.’ The child learns while living and any part of living that is enjoyable is also play.PENELOPE LEACH
April 1-7 is the annual Week of the Young Child (WOYC) which celebrates young children, their families, and early childhood programs and staff. Established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) in 1971, this annual event brings a focus on the needs of all young children and their families.
The early childhood years are the foundation for success in school and later in life. Young children learn best in supportive environments where they have positive relationships with adults and peers. They also thrive in activities that are hands-on and based on what interests them.
Participation in high-quality early childhood programs has long-term benefits. Participants are:
Less likely to repeat a grade in school
More likely to graduate high school
Earn higher wages in the workforce
Have improved overall health
Join the celebration at the Week of the Young Child Collaborative Family Fun Fair on Saturday, April 15 from 9 a.m. to noon at the UW Health Sports Factory, 305 S. Madison Street, Rockford. This free event will include child-friendly activities, community resources, and entertainment by The Headspin Guy. Click the button below to register for the event:
REGISTER FOR THE FAMILY FUN FAIR
Join us this week on the 205 VIBE Blog as we focus on our youngest learners and some of the experiences within the RPS 205 Early Childhood classrooms.
Interested in learning more about the RPS 205 Early Childhood opportunities for families with children from birth to age 5? Visit the early childhood webpage or call the Early Childhood Screening and Placement Office at 815-229-2103.
Hillary Cook-Harris is the Director of Early Childhood Curriculum and Assessment. Hillary joined RPS 205 in November 2019. She has been an Early Childhood educator and director for more than 28 years.