(Posted on August 12, 2024)
The Madison County Department of Family and Children’s Early Childhood Programs recently opened a new parent-child playgroup room.
Early childhood programs include Early Intervention, Help Me Grow home visits, and Early Head Start. They provide parenting support and encourage children’s development. As part of the curriculum, trained staff provide playgroups where children can socialize and learn.
For the past few years, these playgroups have been held in the agency’s conference room, which isn’t exactly kid-friendly. Department members had a vision to create a fun, inviting, kid-friendly space where children could play together. A grant from United Way of Clark, Champaign and Madison Counties helped make that vision a reality.
United Way recognizes that “play” is an important part of a child’s growth and development. Through play, children can improve their social skills and increase their attention span, which helps them prepare for kindergarten.
For more information about United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties, visit https://www.uwccmc.org/ or contact Executive Director Kerry Pedraza at (937) 324-5551.
Anyone who is pregnant and/or has a child between birth and age 3 can contact Rebekah Petit at (740) 845-3871 to learn more about Madison County’s Early Childhood Programs. Interested parties can also visit the agency at 200 Midway St., London. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
