Kentucky has reported that only 44% of children attending kindergarten in Marion 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 Marion County residents, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent partnered with Marion County Public Library to implement Laugh and Learn Playdates.

Through this program, participants work on improving early childhood development skills and increasing kindergarten readiness.  63 adults and 94 children participated in this program.  As a result of the program, 100% of the parents or caregivers reported reading to to their child(ren) at least three times per week, 66% of parents or caregivers reported using simple rules and routines in their home, and 100% reported involving their child(ren) in play with other children.  In regard to physical activity, 100% of participant's parents or caregivers encouraged their child to continue in tasks that were challenging.  In addition to individual behavior change 33% reported giving their child new opportunities to try new foods, and 100% reported their family conducted activities learned from Laugh and Learn Playdates at home.

At the completion of the program, participants shared their child has been able to stay more on-task and shares with others.  Participants also shared how their child has become more engaged.