In the state of Kentucky 44% of children enter into kindergarten unprepared. Kindergarten Readiness is assessed through multiple factors such as: health and physical wellbeing, social and emotional development, approaches to learning, language and communication development; and general knowledge and mathematics. 

To address this important issue, the Grant County Family and Consumer Sciences Program partnered with the Grant County Public Library to host a monthly "Laugh and Learn Playdate" for youth ages 3-5yrs and their guardians. The point of Laugh and Learn is for children to engage in activities that help them increase skills associated with kindergarten readiness. The program is also designed to help parents to learn how to teach their children at home in a way that will encourage learning and readiness. Each month has a specific theme that appeals to children and multiple stations with a handouts that has information about the specific skills each activity was designed to address. There was also a snack activity and coloring pages that were sent home in a take home bag. The program was implemented in 2022 and because of its success, Laugh and Learn Part 2 started in January of 2023.

While participation varies as many as 6-12 children have attended Laugh and Learn each month.

A pre-evaluation was given in January or the first lesson that the children attended and a post- Evaluation was performed in December or the last date of attendance if the parents knew they could no longer make it to the program. Of the post surveys collected:

100% of children reported an increase in the ability to say their name, spell their name, following rules and routines without reminders, playing well with others and willingness to try new foods.

75% of children were able to identify more colors and increased the highest number they can count to without assistance. 

These results are why part 2 of the curriculum was implemented 2023 and many children and guardians loved the program so much they have continued to attend the sessions.