In recent years, research on children and their development has shown that babies begin the learning process at birth.  Early experiences imprinted upon them by parents, family and childcare situations affect the rate and extent of brain development.  These same experiences lay the foundation for emotional health, moral development and intelligence.

As the number of working parents increases, the role of the childcare provider and the early educational opportunities provided in the childcare setting become increasingly important in this framework of development.  Here again, statistics show that the greater the education and skill levels of the childcare provider, the more enriching the experience for the child.  Unfortunately, the demands on providers are high, while the provisions to help meet these demands remain extremely low.  Providers continue to attend school to meet their own educational requirements while working tireless hours to provide innovative and creative learning experiences for children.  Despite this, many are compensated at no more than minimum wage.

We are very grateful to the Community Foundation and their recognition of the importance of these early experiences for children because of the funds awarded through Community Foundation grants, the resources and textbooks for continuing education and classroom curriculum are available to providers.  Specifically, these funds will be used to purchase textbooks, books for children, parents and teachers, videos and music for the resource library.  Students, childcare providers and families are welcome to borrow these items to use with their children. 

Our county is indeed fortunate to have an organization such as the Community Foundation, whose diligent work is instrumental in helping to meet the diverse needs of our community.   O n behalf of the approximately 1200 children in childcare in our county, we thank you for your commitment to their success.