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Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025


Success Story"A Morning with Mrs. Claus"



"A Morning with Mrs. Claus"

Author: Kelly Alsip

Planning Unit: McCracken County CES

Major Program: Family Development General

Plan of Work: McCracken County Family and Consumer Sciences and Supplemental Nutrition Education

Outcome: Initial Outcome

"A Morning with Mrs. Claus" Brings Holiday Cheer to McCracken County

The McCracken County Cooperative Extension recently hosted a festive "A Morning with Mrs. Claus" event that delighted young and old alike. The morning was filled with holiday magic, from a charming 12 Days of Christmas story walk and a visit with the jolly Mrs. Claus herself to creative crafts and delicious treats.

Children eagerly participated in a variety of engaging activities. They transformed into miniature artists, painting their handprints on colorful ornaments and decorating sugar cookies with festive flair. The "magic" shrinking paper allowed them to pen heartfelt letters to Santa, confident that the elves would deliver them straight to the North Pole.

The event also fostered a love for nature with the creation of bird feeder pine cones, ensuring feathered friends would have a bountiful winter feast. Face painting added a touch of whimsy, transforming young attendees into reindeer, elves, and even Santa himself.

The survey results confirmed the event's resounding success. A resounding 21 out of 22 families reported enjoying the event, and a remarkable 90% expressed interest in attending future programs at the Extension. The cookie decorating station emerged as the most popular, with 10 out of 22 children listing it as their favorite.

The feedback also provided valuable insights for future events. Suggestions included incorporating fewer "make-and-take" crafts and considering alternative reindeer food options for younger children.

"A Morning with Mrs. Claus" was not only a joyful celebration of the holiday season but also a valuable community outreach initiative. The Extension successfully provided a fun and engaging experience for families while showcasing the valuable resources and educational opportunities available at the center.

Key Takeaways:

  • The event was a resounding success, with high levels of family satisfaction and interest in future programs.
  • The cookie decorating station proved to be the most popular activity.
  • The survey provided valuable feedback for future events, including suggestions for alternative reindeer food options and incorporating fewer "make-and-take" crafts.
  • The event successfully showcased the valuable resources and educational opportunities available at the McCracken County Cooperative Extension.

This success story highlights the positive impact of the "A Morning with Mrs. Claus" event and encourages the Extension to continue offering engaging and enriching programs for the community.






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