Kentucky has reported that only 51% of children attending kindergarten in Nelson County Schools and only 59% in Bardstown Independent Schools 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 Nelson County residents, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent partnered with The Nelson County Nutrition Educations Program Assistant, Nelson County Public Libraries and Bardstown Parks and Recreation to implement(ed) Laugh and Learn Playdates called Preschoolers in the Park.  This monthly series was hosted at the Nelson County Extension Office and local parks. Preschool aged youth participated in the activities with a parent or guardian.  Activities included themed healthy snacks, movement, music, arts, a story and take home activities

Through this program, participants work on improving early childhood development skills and increasing kindergarten readiness. 10 adults and 18 children participated in this program. Of those responding to a follow up evaluation, As a result of this program, 75 % of parents reported that they gained new knowledge of child development, 100% learned new skills they can use at home to offer activities to improve their child’s kindergarten readiness, 100% feel confident in their ability to improve their child’s kindergarten readiness and 75 % are more aware of how to help their child be ready for kindergarten. 

At the completion of the program, one participant shared that their child gained more courage and became more confident and outgoing.