School-readiness is a broad term that refers to multiple precursor cognitive physical, and social-emotional skills that indicate young children are prepared to learn and thrive in the school environment. A wide body of research shows a strong foundation in school readiness is indicative of school success. Emerging research also indicates that there is s synergistic effort when early learning activities activate physical and cognitive skills simultaneously, as opposed to doing so in isolation However, in the state of Kentucky only 50% of children are deemed school-ready when they enter Kindergarten. These numbers indicate a need for more activities that support school readiness by building multiple skill sets simultaneously. Carroll County falls below the state average at only 47% of students are ready for kindergarten according to the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development.

School Readiness in Carroll County is low compared to other counties in Kentucky.  In partnership with the Early Childhood Development Center and the Carroll County School System, the Carroll County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent partnered together to send extra resources home with the students between ages birth and 5 years of age.  Approximately 154 students were reached with this inititive included Americans and Hispanics.

Packets were sent home with school enrichment activities for the students included increasing small motor skills and hand washing, books with life skills themes, tooth brushes and tooth paste with information on how to brush teeth properly, ABC book on fruits and vegetables and information about eating healthy snacks.

With the packets, parents and caregivers have an increases chance of being actively involved with their child and building that emotional bond young children need.