Success StorySupporting School Readiness



Supporting School Readiness

Author: Lynnette Allen

Planning Unit: Breckinridge County CES

Major Program: Nurturing Families (general)

Plan of Work: Building life skills through youth programming

Outcome: Intermediate 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 only 400 slots in licensed and certified childcare facilities.  With this limitation, many local young children are not in structured learning environments; therefore, Breckinridge County Community Early Childhood Council (BCCECC) once again applied and was successful in receiving funding ($6,800) for early childhood education.  The grant’s work-plan includes such activities as provider and caregiver training and programs focusing on school readiness, literacy, and safety and wellness.  For the fifth consecutive year, the BCCECC hosted the Community Baby Shower. The Extension Service provided leadership, facilities, and educational resources for the event. Over 15 agencies also participate with educational displays and donations.  From 2015-2019, 100 families have participated. Post event surveys reported that the participants found the event very helpful in identifying community resources to support their young children. In 2019 the event presented specific learning sessions covering safe sleep, car seat safety and school readiness. Thirty-two percent of the participants reported that they are now more concerned about car seat safety and will take actions to ensure their child is safely restrained.  Also reading to their child was identified as an important action they will take to better prepare their child for school.  The participants identified the need for additional information regarding school readiness, family money management, and wellness. With this in mind a new program called Kindergarten Strong is scheduled for incoming kindergarten students to help families prepare for the new school year.  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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