LAURINBURG —Scotland County Partnership/Smart Start will be honoring young children and those who make a difference in their lives next week.
Week of the Young Child is a national event that will be held from April 14-20.
The program is is an opportunity for early childhood programs across the country, including child care, Head Start programs, preschools, and elementary schools to hold activities to bring awareness to the needs of young children.
“All young children need and deserve high-quality early learning experiences that will prepare them for life, and Scotland County continues to provide opportunities to help young children,” said Clayton Brooks, Partnership board chairman. “Week of the Young Child is a time for Scotland County to recognize that Early Years are Learning Years for all young children.”
This year’s events include; Music Monday, where children develop music skills such as clapping, drumming, and stomping; Tasty Tuesday, encourages healthy eating and fitness at home and school; Working Together Wednesday, encourages working together, building together, and learning together; Artsy Thursday, celebrates the joy by learning children experience when engaged in creative art making; and Family Friday, to engage and celebrate that families are at the heart of supporting the youngest learners.
There will also be a Pajama Party put on by the Scotland County Partnership/Smart Start at the Scotland County Memorial Library on April 19 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The event allows children to show up in pajamas to enjoy storytelling and goodies. Those who wish to participate should contact the Scotland County Partnership/Smart Start at 910-276-3333.
“Young children and their families depend on high-quality education and care, which help children get a great start and bring lasting benefits, Brooks said. “Week of the Young Child is a time to recognize the importance of early learning and early literacy, and to celebrate the teachers and policies that bring early childhood education to young children.”
The National Association for the Education of Young Children sponsors the week. The NAEYC is the largest organization of early childhood educators and others dedicated to improving the quality of early education program for children birth through age 8. Founded in 1926, NAEYC has nearly 65,000 members and a national network of more than 300 local, state, and regional Affiliates.