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The Judy Center Early Learning Hub model focuses on preparing children and families for school. We believe that we do this best by focusing on child development and supporting families.
Family engagement refers to including children’s family, their caregivers, in activities that support their growth, development and learning. When families are provided with an opportunity to be intentionally involved in their child’s education and/or school environment, we see positive family partnerships that strengthen the family, as well as the school and children who feel supported and ready to learn.
The events held at the Judy Center or in collaboration with our school are all forms of family engagement. The family caregiver and the child are invited to attend the events and take part in playful activities together. Our family playgroups provide a weekly opportunity for the child and family to engage in an early childhood education space with peers of a similar age. This is an opportunity for the children and the adults to interact and learn how to support the growth and learning of their children.
We also provide “parent” training, now referred as family learning. The family learning sessions allow us to dive into specific domains or areas of development and learning for a child. The goal is to support every family member to embrace their position as children’s first and most important teacher. The family lays a foundation in the child’s life, on which all further education will build. We want to make that foundation as strong as possible.
We also recognize that children are totally dependent upon their family caregivers for all their needs. To ensure a child is entering school ready to learn, we have to make sure the family has had an opportunity to meet all their needs and goals.
Another form of family engagement is goal setting. We have a remarkable list of community partners that work with us to ensure our youngest learners and their family are thriving. Have you ever taken a moment and asked yourself, “Where do I dream to be?” Goal setting can be a very intentional, motivational journey to self-improvement resulting in positive growth and development for adults and ultimately the children they care for.
We invite you to come see the Judy Centers and learn more about our programs. We serve expecting parents and families with children from birth through five years of age that live in either the Federalsburg Elementary School or Greensboro Elementary School attendance area. We may also serve children and families of Caroline County, from birth through five years of age, who have an active Individualized Family Service Plan, an Individualized Education Plan, or are experiencing homelessness.
If your family is eligible or you know a family that is, please share this article with them today. We extend a warm welcome and hope to see them soon. We are here to serve.
