Empowering Futures: The Success Story of Robertson County's "Read, Laugh, and Learn" ProgramIn Robertson County, a collaborative effort between the Robertson County Extension Service and the Robertson County Library has brought an innovative and impactful initiative to life: the "Read, Laugh, and Learn" program. Designed for children ages 3-5, this program is more than just a playdate—it’s a gateway to kindergarten readiness and lifelong learning.From Vision t
Describe the Issue or Situation.In Owsley County, Kentucky, access to early childhood daycare options is limited, posing a significant challenge for families with young children. Many parents face difficulties in finding affordable, quality daycare, which can delay essential early learning experiences. This lack of availability also impacts kindergarten readiness, as children may enter school without having developed the foundational social, emotional, and academic skills needed to succeed. The
Kentucky has reported that only 24.9% of children attending kindergarten in Fayette County are prepared and equipped to succeed. In many Kentucky counties, limited resources or the environment may hinder healthy lifestyle choices related to early childhood development and physical activity. As an innovative strategy to improve early childhood development skills and increase kindergarten readiness with Fayette County residents, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent implemented Laugh and Le
Describe the Issue or Situation. In the current societal context, occurrences of adolescent pregnancy and individuals hailing from low-income households have grown increasingly prevalent. This pattern is notably evident within the residents of Spencer County. During the current year, the agents of Spencer County Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H/Youth Development, in collaboration with the Family Resource & Youth Service Centers and other community partners, coordinated t