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 shortage of early education opportunities places added pressure on families and schools, making initiatives like Laugh and Learn playdates critical for supporting early childhood development and preparing children for a strong start in kindergarten. According to recent data from the 2022 Kids Count Data Book , Owsley County had one of the lowest percentages in Kentucky for students entering Kindergarten ready to learn at only 20% of incoming Kindergartens identifying as "ready to learn".

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

The Owsley County Extension, in collaboration with the Owsley County Public Library, is addressing the low kindergarten readiness scores in the community by hosting monthly Laugh and Learn Playdates. These playdates are designed for children from birth to 5 years old, with a specific curriculum targeted at children aged 2.5 to 5. However, younger children are also encouraged to participate.

The program provides a holistic approach to school readiness, incorporating a variety of activities to help children develop critical skills. These activities include:

• Music and Dance: Enhances motor skills, coordination, and creative expression.
• Math and Cognitive Activities: Introduces early math concepts and critical thinking.
• Health and Nutrition: Promotes healthy habits and physical well-being.
• Literacy and Read Alouds: Develops language and reading comprehension skills.
• Sensory Play: Encourages exploration and development of sensory processing.

By engaging children in these fun and educational activities, the program aims to strengthen their readiness for kindergarten while providing a positive, interactive environment for early learning.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

On average, 10 children from 7 families are signed up for the monthly Laugh and Learn Playdates. Any child ages birth to 5 may join the playdate at any point in the year. Attendance fluctuates each month ranging from 3-10 participates each month.  

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

The Laugh and Learn playdate program is beginning to show positive impact on child development and school readiness in Owsley County. 3/10 Parents and caregivers of the participants are reporting higher levels of confidence in assisting young children with school readiness skills. 2/10 young participants are showing improvement in fine motor skills and their ability to properly handle scissors and manipulate playdough. 2/10 parents have reported that their child is developing greater social skills as a result of the playdates and being able to engage with same-age peers.