The Week of the Young Child originated in 1971, is an annual event sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). NAEYC, the world’s largest early childhood education association, has nearly 90,000 members and is committed to providing and promoting excellence in early childhood education. The primary goal of the Week of the Young Child is to celebrate and bring attention to the unique qualities and needs of young children and their families. Also, the Week of the Young Child is a time to honor the educators and other professionals who nurture and provide safe, loving educational environments that can greatly impact the lives of young children. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Our Youngest Learners”
Research illustrates that during these early years children develop essential social, physical, cognitive and communicative abilities and that the level of these abilities are greatly advanced in the presence of constant, responsive and consistent care. In today’s economic times, where many families have two working parents, the importance of high quality early childhood programs is critical. High quality interactions include, but are not limited to, sustained and engaged play, open-ended conversations, individualized learning experiences and recognition of the importance of family involvement.
Kangaroo Kids, a NAEYC accredited school celebrated this special week with a unique schedule of events. They kicked off the week with school spirit day Monday where children wore their school shirts to show School Spirit! Monday was also the Kick off for the Scholastic Book Fair! On Tuesday families were invited for a pancake breakfast as the beautiful melodies of the harp played in the background. Later in the week bubbles and bouncers filled the school and brought many happy giggles. As the week was coming to a close they had Chinese lessons, Spanish Lessons, music exploration and Mystery Musicians. Finally, Kangaroo Kids brought the Week of the Young Child to a close by having an ice-cream social. A perfect opportunity to enjoy a delicious treat while socializing with classmates and reflecting upon the week!
You can celebrate the at home every day as well! Take a moment to read a special book or work on a cooperative craft or art project. Children love helping in the kitchen and will be thrilled to help prepare dinner or dessert for the family. If you are going to bake something with your child, perhaps you can even make extra and bring the baked goods to a local nursing home, shelter or other community institution! Community outings are always special and places such as libraries and children’s museums may be participating in special events to celebrate the week. Please don’t forget that the best possible way to connect with your child is simply to talk to them. Drop the cell phone, put away the computer, get at their eye level and engage your child in sustained conversation. A free and invaluable way to get into the mind and heart of your child!
If you would like information about upcoming programs at Kangaroo Kids or a list of special activities you can do with your child call 908-231-7800 or email us at staff@kangarookidschildcare.comor like Kangaroo Kids Child Care Facebook page. May is Open House Month at Kangaroo Kids where any new student can try a class for free!
