Author: Lynnette Allen
Planning Unit: Breckinridge County CES
Major Program: Child Development General
Plan of Work: Building life skills among all ages
Outcome: Initial Outcome
In Kentucky the need for early childhood development and school readiness continues to be identified. Due to limited early childcare programs in Breckinridge County, there are less than 400 slots in licensed and certified childcare facilities. Many young children and parents do not have access to childcare that provides a structured learning environment to support school readiness. To address this, the Breckinridge County FCS program and Early Childhood Council hosted the annual Breckinridge County Community Baby Shower. Local and regional agencies partnered to provide learning stops along the drive- through event in April 2024. Agencies included Head Start and Early Head Start, the public library, HANDS and the health department, local and regional hospitals, mental health agencies, domestic violence prevention centers, Extension NEP program, Extension Homemakers and local business such as Walmart. Expecting parents and parents of infants received information about immunizations, child development, nutrition/breast feeding, healthcare, early literacy and safe homes. Each family received additional incentives like baby wipes, new baby care kits, board books, child Myplates and healthy snacks. Also, each family received a baby shower gift that was provided by participating agencies and by the local Healthy Communities coalition. Total donations had an estimated value over $1,000. Thirty-three families participated and post program survey participants reported they gained a better understanding of care seat safety, child development, HANDS program, breast feeding, and the importance of spending more time on school readiness. The participants identified the need for additional information regarding school readiness, family money management, and wellness. To address additional needs the early childhood council has applied for grant funds to offer more school readiness programs. The Community Baby Shower has served as an introduction to the supportive and welcoming community of local agencies that are available to support local families with young children.
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