| Early Childhood Initiative - School Readiness |
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Almost half of America's kindergarteners arrive at school without some very basic skills, according to the U.S. Department of Education. They're behind from Day One, and that can cause trouble throughout their school and work life. As Dr. Jack Shonkoff of the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child says, there's a big gap between what we know – and what we do – to promote healthy childhood development. United Way of the Midlands is working with area partners to reach out to friends and family members who care for young children, to make sure the adults do what they can to prepare the little ones for school.
Because transportation is a critical issue among newcomers, HFS and the Y take these learning opportunities right into the homes and churches of our local international community. They help the children learn stories that native born American children know long before they start school. They give the youngsters a chance to play with puzzles and draw with crayons -- items that many international children have never seen before. The School Readiness Program is a strong addition to an already powerful network of United Way-funded youth programs across Douglas, Sarpy and Pottawattamie counties year-in and year-out. Meet one of the families that calls this program an answer to their prayers!
Also, the Born Learning awareness campaign seeks to bridge the gap – in each community and at the national level. It doesn't take a lot of money, or a Ph.D., to help get a child off to a good start. For example, here are some simple ways to use everyday activities to boost a youngster's brain power:
See below for some easy-to-print Born Learning fact sheets that YOU can put to use, today! Local television stations are being asked to run public service announcements promoting this important effort. Take a look at this one! What is it?"Born Learning" helps parents, family/friend caregivers and communities create quality early learning opportunities for young children. Through national public service advertising, parent materials and community mobilization activities, it provides "do-able" action steps that are fun, easy – and can be taken in everyday moments – to prepare young children for school. Check out these photos from the 2007 Born Learning events!
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You'll be shocked to hear how many children arrive at kindergarten without very basic learning skills. That means they start school at a big disadvantage. But a special school-readiness program is making a big difference. And, parents are using everyday activities as learning opportunities for their babies and toddlers. It's all done toward a single goal -- that children will arrive at their first day of school ready-to-learn! 
