Pendleton County kindergarten readiness for our youth falls well below the state average.  Pendleton County kindergarten readiness percent in 30.4% and while the state is 51.1%.  As a result of this the Pendleton County Early Childhood Council, which the Family and Consumer Science agent is activity involved in decided to plan an early childhood carnival event. A survey held the day of the event by the adults attending with their children indicated:

54% mentioned being able to have fun with their children with the bouncy house being the most popular of the activities. 

 Several of the adults mentioned that it was a special family time while others mentioned the joy of networking with other parents and having children of the same age to play with.  

45% reported benefiting from the information and resources they received especially child care, the eye test, and from the library.  

The respondents expressed their gratitude for the community providing the event at no charge to the families with several expressing their hope that the event will be offered again in the future.   

In an eight week follow up survey to the event sent to those attending the following reported they engage more often in: Activities that increase physical activity, crafts or activities using crayons and small scissors, play and share time with others, exploring and trying new things and listening to stories.

71 % of those attending used resources provided at the event.  Some listed included: books provided, starting the process enrolling in preschool, looking in to head start and story hour at the library. 

While it's easy to assume that every child is ready for kindergarten when they reach a certain age, there are important factors to consider, such as their academic ability and emotional maturity. Kindergarten readiness can be nurtured in every child through positive interaction with parents and other children. The Pendleton County Extension Office understands that the earliest years of childhood education are critical in establishing later success.