Alexander County Partnership for Children

IT IS IN THE STARS!!!!

2012-01-13T15:15:00.002-05:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children announces the first group of STAR providers of the month. This is a new initiative through the Alexander County Partnership for Children to reward early childhood teachers throughout the county for excellence in child care. The criterion to receive this award includes positive engagement, meaningful interactions, intentionality in lesson planning and encouragement with and for young children.

Mrs. Sharpe, a teacher at Head Start, was seen allowing the children to select the units of learning. The children are asked what they wish to study on a regular basis. Mrs. Sharpe has taken an interest in sign language and uses this throughout her classroom. This classroom is well organized with a focus on child engagement. When told she had received this award said, “Really?? Thank you so much.” In her free time she enjoys being with her family and being a Tarheel fan!

Mrs. Laws is a busy teacher of two year olds at Lulu’s Child Enrichment Center. During several visits to Lulu’s she was seen consistently playing indoors on rainy days trying to get some energy out of some very active two year olds. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her two kids but loves having some down time to read a good book.

Mrs. Herman runs her own child care, Sandy’s Daycare, out of her home. She was seen on the floor teaching the children to successfully complete a somersault on a rainy day. Mrs. Herman was explaining to the children that they must look around them before they somersault to keep everyone safe from getting kicked. In her free time she enjoys stamping and sewing projects. We are so excited to see physical activity happening despite the weather.

These child care providers are from two child care centers and one family child care home. Alexander County is currently home to eleven child care centers and eight family child care homes. These nineteen facilities care for 593 children in Alexander County.

Reach Out and Read To Start!

2012-01-06T09:51:00.004-05:00

Getting books from the doctor will soon be a routine part of regular pediatric checkups at Alexander County Health Department and Family Care medical practices in Alexander County. Alexander County Partnership for Children is working with Reach Out and Read® to make books and literacy guidance a reality for children and families in Alexander County. The new Reach Out and Read clinical locations join more than 4,779 programs nationwide that are preparing America’s youngest children to succeed in school.

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director for the Alexander County Partnership for Children (ACPC), expressed excitement for the expansion of literacy efforts in the county. “This is a wonderful opportunity for Alexander County and our children. Reach Out and Read will assist in the partnership’s focus to bring books to more families and children in our county. The ACPC Board of Directors has embraced literacy as means to ensure children enter school healthy and ready to succeed.” The Partnership hopes to expand Reach Out and Read to other medical practices in the county.

Doctors, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals incorporate Reach Out and Read's evidence-based model into regular pediatric checkups by advising parents about the importance of reading aloud and giving developmentally-appropriate books to children.

The program begins at the 6-month checkup and continues through age 5, with a special emphasis on children growing up in low-income communities. Families served by Reach Out and Read read together more often, and their children enter kindergarten with larger vocabularies, stronger language skills, and better prepared to achieve their potential.

During the 2011 legislative session, The North Carolina General Assembly added a requirement for Smart Start to implement an evidence-based pilot literacy program. The North Carolina Partnership for Children, Inc, the organization that oversees Smart Start, chose Reach Out Read because it builds upon Smart Start’s success in working with pediatricians. Smart Start currently works with pediatric offices to provide developmental screenings during well-child visits. Smart Start has always included a focus on developing early literacy skills and has been implementing the evidence-based program, Raising a Reader since 2007.

Alexander County Partnership for Children is one of 14 Smart Start partnerships selected to implement Reach Out and Read. The others include Anson County Partnership for Children, Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County, Inc., Smart Start of Davie County, Inc., Down East Partnership for Children, Duplin County Partnership for Children, Franklin Granville Vance Smart Start, Madison County Partnership for Children and Families, Inc., Randolph County Partnership for Children, Region A Partnership for Children, Rockingham County Partnership for Children, Inc., Smart Start Rowan, Inc., Children’s Council of Watauga, Inc., and Wilkes Community Partnership for Children.

Festival of Cultures

2011-11-02T14:02:00.002-04:00

ACPC attended the Festival of Cultures held on Saturday, October 29th. Children and families attended the event at Alexander Central High School. ACPC provided books for children along with a painting activity.

Not Too Early to Think about the Holidays!

2011-10-28T11:43:00.002-04:00

Preschool children and their families run, run fast as you can so you can get to the Alexander County Partnership for Children on Saturday December 3rd ,before the Taylorsville parade, or on Monday December 5th to participate in our 1st annual community Gingerbread House Making Party. Come join the fun to create and take home your very own gingerbread house. Hear the story about the gingerbread man that inspired this seasonal tradition.

When: Saturday December 3rd or Monday December 5th
Where: Alexander County Partnership for Children office
Time:10 am- 12 noon

Call 632-3799 or email andrea@alexanderchildren.org to register. Space is limited so don’t miss this wonderful chance to make some family memories while sharing in a tradition that has been part of children’s lives for generations.

ACPC Receives Shape NC Grant

2011-10-10T12:34:00.003-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children has been selected to implement Shape NC: Healthy Starts for Young Children. Shape NC is a groundbreaking initiative that tackles the childhood obesity epidemic by focusing on young children, from birth through age five, in child care and community settings. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation has partnered with The North Carolina Partnership for Children, Inc. (NCPC), the organization that oversees Smart Start, to invest $3 million for 30 Smart Start partnerships to administer Shape NC over three years. In this second phase, the program expands to10 Smart Start local partnerships serving Alamance, Alexander, Anson, Carteret, Chatham, Iredell, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell-Yancey, and Wayne counties.

Last year, eight child care programs in Buncombe, Guilford, Onslow, Orange, Randolph, and New Hanover counties as well at the Nash-Edgecombe area and the state’s Western-most counties, launched the program. After the first year, 120 early childhood and other related professionals are more effective at engaging children in physical activities indoors and outdoors, improving activity levels for 600 children birth through 5. Through Shape NC, Alexander County Partnership for Children will provide nutrition and physical activity programs to over 500 children in Alexander County.

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership for Children, shared “Alexander County young children will be the recipients of this wonderful opportunity. Shape NC gives Alexander County the initiative to focus on keeping our children fit and healthy as we work to prevent childhood obesity. Alexander County cares about young children and Shape NC will give us a chance to collaborate with community partners to make a deep impact at the local level”.

North Carolina has the 11th highest childhood obesity rate (18.6%) in the nation, according to a 2011 report by the Trust for America’s Health. Shape NC seeks to create a replicable, sustainable statewide early childhood model to reduce obesity rates among young children by improving their daily nutrition and physical activity as well as their outdoor environments in child care and the community in general.

“From Cherokee County to Edgecombe County, local child care programs will become the centers to help bring the benefits of nutritious foods, physical activity and healthy living to children, their families and teachers,” said Kathy Higgins, BCBSNC Foundation president. “The expansion to include these ten communities continues our progress at addressing the childhood obesity epidemic.”

For more information about Shape NC or other Smart Start programs, visit www.smartstart.org or contact your local Smart Start partnership. Alexander County Partnership for Children is funded by Smart Start and United Way of Alexander County.

Birth to Four Screening is Planned

2011-10-10T09:00:00.002-04:00

On October 31, 2011 Alexander County Schools in conjunction with the Children's Developmental Services Agency and the Alexander County Partnership for Children is sponsoring a FREE screening event for children birth to four years age. Any child age zero to four years of age is invited to participate in this event. Services available include developmental, hearing and vision screenings, fingerprinting, car seat inspections, plus much more. Call the partnership at 632-3799 to get started with the registration process!

Maggie Breden Taylor Joins ACPC Staff

2011-10-04T10:38:00.001-04:00

Maggie Breden Taylor, RNC has joined Alexander County Partnership for Children as the Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC). Maggie has over 20+ years of successful experience in various health care settings including working in pediatric care, occupational health, and nursing instruction. Maggie was honored with the Order of the Long Leaf by the governor of North Carolina for initiating an “Action for Children” program in Charlotte.

The CCHC is a vital link between the children in child care and preschools, parents, providers, and community resources. Maggie will be working with child care facilities in addressing health and safety environmental needs as well as specific health needs of young children. Services will include: on-site consultations, immunization record reviews, and health and safety related educational opportunities for child care providers. Assistance with referrals to the children’s medical home and other services including Children's Developmental Services Agency (CDSA) or Exceptional Children’s Program may occur as needed.

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of Alexander County Partnership for Children, commented, “Maggie brings a high level of enthusiasm and experience to the Partnership For Children. Her commitment to Alexander County and to children is contagious!

The PreK Roundup is Coming

2011-09-19T10:15:00.004-04:00

The Pre-K Roundup is returning on Tuesday, October 18th from 6:30 to 8:30pm at Varsity Gym-Alexander Central High School. Children who will be entering Kindergarten in August 2012 and their families are invited to attend. This is a drop-in event. The Pre-K Roundup is an opportunity for children and families to become acquainted with representatives from their school including teachers and other staff and make connections that will make an easier transition to Kindergarten for children.
Also participating in the Pre-K Roundup will be representatives from after-school care, the Exceptional Children’s Department, and other school programs. Children will have the opportunity to ride a school bus. The first seventy-five children in attendance will receive a Kindergarten Transition backpack. Each child attending will receive a book from the Ready Schools Committee. You will not want to miss this exciting opportunity being hosted by the Ready Schools Committee along with the Alexander County Schools and the Alexander County Partnership for Children.

Play to Learn Returns!!!

2011-09-19T10:10:00.004-04:00

Back by popular demand is the Alexander County Partnership for Children’s Play to Learn group for parents and children. Play to Learn will begin October 13th and will be held at Alexander County Partnership for Children. The parent and child playgroup will meet the second Thursday of each month from 10am to 11:30am and is designed for children ages two, three, and four. Registration is currently being conducted for this FREE program. Interested parents are asked to register by calling the 828-632-3799 to receive a registration form or by emailing info@alexanderchildren.org.

Activities will be based on the Creative Curriculum for the children and help parents/caregivers by providing age appropriate adult/child interactions through play. Children will be introduced to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Sessions will include themes that allow children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support.

Participants will also have the opportunity to check out for take home use educational toys and learning materials from the Lending Library. The Lending Library contains thousands of exciting materials for children including puzzles, books, manipulatives, blocks, musical instruments, puppets, CDs to name a few.

You will not want to miss this exciting learning opportunity for children! Space is limited so sign up today. Children must be accompanied by an adult (parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, and caregiver).

ACPC Is Fueling Good!

2011-09-16T13:32:00.011-04:00

ACPC has entered the Fueling Good contest by CITGO. Help support Alexander County Partnership for Children (ACPC). Participate in this campaign which would allow ACPC to receive up to $5,000 in gas for participants of The Nurturing Program- a 16 week program that helps adults learn to parent with empathy and positive discipline. Fueling Good will assist parents with the cost of getting to and from class which can often be a barrier to participation.

Voting begins September 29th and ends on October 27th! Please vote daily for ACPC and The Nurturing Program. Voting may take place from one email account daily. Show you support of our Alexander County families and ACPC by voting. Share this information with all your friends and families to help us make this funding a reality!!!
www.fuelinggood.com/rewardinggood?id=838492

Child Passenger Safety Week Observed

2011-09-16T10:16:00.002-04:00

Child Passenger Safety Week is September 18-24, 2011 and is celebrated every year to remind parents and other caregivers of the need to keep children of all ages properly restrained in the seat that meets their weight and height requirements.
• Children grow at different rates and restraints should be checked frequently to ensure safety.
• Families are urged to have their child seat checked to be sure they are using the right restraint: a car seat, booster seat or seat belt. When it comes to the safety of a child, there is no room for mistakes.
• Make sure you are securing your children correctly.
Parents and caregivers should follow a few basic guidelines to determine which restraint system is best suited to protect their children in a vehicle.

Top Child Passenger Safety Tips
• For the best possible protection keep infants in a back seat, in rear-facing child safety seats, as long as possible—up to the height or weight limit of the particular seat. Never turn a child forward-facing before age 1 and at least 20 pounds, although keeping kids rear-facing until at least age 2 is safer and preferred if the seat allows.
• When children outgrow their rear-facing seats, they should ride in forward-facing child safety seats, in a back seat, until they reach the upper weight or height limit of the particular harnessed seat. Many newer seats exceed the old 40 pound weight limit.
• Once children outgrow their forward-facing seats, they should ride in booster seats, in the back seat, until the vehicle seat belts fit properly.
• Seat belts fit properly when the lap belt lays across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt rests on the shoulder or collar bone (usually when the child is between 8 and 12 years old, approximately 4’9” tall and 80 to 100 pounds)

For more information on child passenger safety visit the Alexander County Partnership for Children at 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville-one mile past Food Lion on the left. Car seat inspections are conducted by appointment. Call 632-3799 to make an appointment for your child. Alexander County Partnership for Children is a United Way agency.

Andrea Little Joins Staff

2011-09-16T10:13:00.001-04:00

Andrea Lail Little has joined ACPC as the new Child Development Specialist. A native of Hickory, Andrea is no stranger to Alexander County. From 2006 to 20008 she was employed by Alexander County Schools as an Exceptional Children’s Preschool teacher at Alexander County Head Start. For the past three years she has worked as a Preschool teacher in a NCPK, formerly More at Four, classroom at Jenkins Elementary in Hickory. Additional work experience includes assistant director in after-school program, summer camp counselor and teacher assistant in a preschool program.

Andrea is primarily responsible for the Partnership’s goal of increasing the quality of child care in Alexander County. Job responsibilities focus on the child care related components of grant funds through Smart Start, the Division of Child Development, and other sources. She serves as the primary CCR&R liaison with the child care community by providing technical assistance, consultation and child care provider trainings.

Welcome Andrea!!!

Outgoing Board Members Honored

2011-07-27T17:02:00.002-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children recently held their annual meeting. Outgoing board members honored were Kay Hamby from Alexander County Department of Social Services and ACPC secretary along with Deborah Ferguson from Alexander County Head Start and ACPC treasurer. ACPC is an Alexander County nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure that Alexander County children enter school healthy and ready to succeed. Funding for ACPC is provided by Smart Start, NCPK, United Way, and private donations. The partnership serves children birth to five, their families, and child care facilities.

More at Four Now NCPK

2011-07-13T09:46:00.002-04:00

During the recent North Carolina General Assembly session the Division of Child Development and Early Education was designated as the lead agency for North Carolina’s prekindergarten program (formerly known as More at Four). The program was renamed NC Prekindergarten Program (NCPK) with changes being effective July 1, 2011.

Pre-kindergarten is a research-proven strategy for school readiness. Parents can have the greatest impact on a child’s school readiness as the first and most consistent teacher in a child’s life. Children will make the most progress when parents are involved.

The NCPK continues to be a high quality prekindergarten program with high program standards, teacher education standards, and local administration and eligibility determination. In Alexander County the Alexander County Partnership will continue to administer the program now known as NCPK. Alexander County currently has 105 NCPK slots, housed in both private child care centers and Alexander Head Start.

Applications for the NCPK Program are now available. NCPK is designed to provide quality educational experiences in order to enhance kindergarten readiness for four-year-olds. The program is community-based, voluntary and designed to prepare four-year-olds in North Carolina for success in school.

For families who have submitted an application to the More at Four program that application is now being considered for eligibility in the NCPK program. A new application is not necessary.

If you child turns 4 by August 31, 2011 he or she may be eligible for the program. If you have concerns about your child’s development he or she may be eligible for the program. For more information, or to get an application, e-mail Susan Cogdill at susan@alexanderchildren.org or call 632-3799, extension 12. Applications are available at Alexander County Partnership for Children, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville and the website www.alexanderchildren.org.

Sandy's Day Care and Read 100

2011-07-13T09:42:00.001-04:00

Children from Sandy’s Day Care Home who participated in READ 100 include Evie Teague whose guardian is Arlie Mast, Ava and Laina Keith, daughter of Jennifer and Ron Keith sitting with Sandy Herman, owner operator of Sandy’s Day Care Home. Not pictured Julio Sosa, grandson of Trinidad and Deborah Corales.

All God's Children FCCH and Read 100

2011-07-13T09:38:00.003-04:00

Children from All God’s Children who participated in READ 100 include Meredith Wike, daughter of Brooke and Fred Wike; Samantha Snyder, daughter of Traci and Dennis Snyder; Leah Cronan, daughter of Liz and Scott Cronan; Caden Cox, son of Lindsay and Derek Cox; Mrs. Sheri Hamrick, owner and operator of All God’s Children Child Care Home, who is holding Layla Geiger, daughter of Tara and Robert Geiger. Not pictured: Katelyn Richards, daughter of Melissa and Dustin Richards.

100 Books are Read by Children!

2011-07-13T09:34:00.003-04:00

Family Child Care Homes in Alexander County recently participated in “READ 100” which was designed to extend the love of reading into the child’s home. This program is designed to assist children and families as they develop a love of reading. ACPC acquired books specifically for “READ 100”. Books were divided into reading collections. FCCHs checked out the collections-one collection at a time. Spanish books were also be available.

With the collection in hand each child was given a book to take home. The parent read the book to the child and signed off the child’s reading log. The book was returned to the FCCH and thus the exchange began when another book is sent home.

“READ 100” children and their families read 100 books by June 15th. Children had approximately 20+ weeks to complete the program. Children who successfully completed the program were recognized with a certificate and also received a book. FCCHs who had three or more children completing the “READ 100” program received a book collection for their FCCH.

Join Us For "Sock It To Me Wednesday"

2011-06-11T21:13:00.002-04:00

“Sock It To Me” Wed is coming to Alexander County Partnership for Children on June 22nd from 10am until Noon. The Partnership for Children has received a donation of over 600 pairs of socks including socks for men, women, and children. Bring a bag and pick out free socks-limit 7 pairs per person (socks for a week)!. Supplies are limited and available on a first come first serve basis

Reader Roo Visits Spring Fling!

2011-05-31T12:36:00.004-04:00

Children had the opportunity to meet Reader Roo at the Spring Fling on May 2th hosted by the Alexander County Partnership for Children at Matheson Park. Assisting in the event were community agencies who provided fun filled activities for children and families. UNC-TV sponsored Reader Roo and provided free books to children.

Executive Director Completes Duke Nonprofit Management Certificate

2011-05-13T14:54:00.005-04:00

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership for Children, was recently awarded the Duke Certificate in Nonprofit Management. This distinction is given to an elite group of professionals from North Carolina and throughout the country- who made a commitment to gain new skills and knowledge essential to the nonprofit sector.

Nonprofit organizations provide vital services that markedly contribute to the health of communities. The goal of the Duke Nonprofit Management Program is to ensure that these vital services continue to grow in scope and quality. The Program has proven that pursuit of the Certificate results in better-managed nonprofits that translate into more vigorous communities.
Fundamental organizational and management principles can be used by leaders in the nonprofit sector to strengthen both their systems and service delivery. The Nonprofit Management Program provides educational opportunities to people working in and with the nonprofit arena, whether they are paid staff, directors, board members, philanthropists or volunteers. It integrates Duke University’s commitment to academic excellence with the practical wisdom of the instructors and the realistic work experience of the participants.

Mrs. Cogdill has worked in the nonprofit sector for 33 years including over two years with the Alexander County Partnership for Children a local nonprofit that receives funding from Smart Start, More at Four, United Way, Division of Child Development, foundations and local donations.

It is Time for Spring Fling!!!!

2011-05-13T14:32:00.003-04:00

The Alexander County Partnership for Children will be holding their annual Spring Fling on Thursday, May 26, at Matheson Park from 3:30 PM until 6:00 PM. This event will be full of fun activities and games for all children. This will be a great way to welcome summer for your children and to spend quality time with your family. There will be lots of information available from local agencies and it should be a great evening for all who attend.

Join Us April 11th!

2011-04-04T09:44:00.002-04:00

Week of the Young Child is a national celebration April 11-15 and is held each year to honor young children and thank teachers and all those who make a difference in young children’s lives. Alexander County Partnership for Children will hold a Week of the Young Child Kick Off and Open House Breakfast April 11th from 7:30am to 9am. Stop by and view children’s art work, book projects and recycled art.

Is Your Car Seat Properly Installed?

2011-04-04T09:38:00.003-04:00

9 out of 10 car seats are improperly installed. Could yours be one of them? Come talk with a certified technician to learn more about safely installing your seat every time. Stop by the Alexander County Partnership for Children on Mon, April 11th
from 2pm to 4pm to have a certified technician check your child’s seat. Appointments are available at other times. Call 632-3799 Extension 11 for more information.

Come Read With Rudy!!!

2011-04-03T12:33:00.006-04:00

In recognition of Week of the Young Child come join the Alexander County Partnership for Children on Wednesday, April 13th from 12:15pm to 1:15pm for Reading with Rudy at Matheson Park, Taylorsville. Children can come and listen to stories, receive a take home book, and learn about Rudy a certified Therapy Dog through Therapy Dogs International. Rudy is a Tail Waggin' Tutor at the Alexander County Public Library and is owned by Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership for Children.

Celebrate Week of the Young Child!!!

2011-03-25T16:22:00.015-04:00

Week of the Young Child is a national celebration April 11-15. Week of the Young Child is held each year to honor young children and thank teachers and all those who make a difference in young children’s lives. Alexander County Partnership for Children will hold a Week of the Young Child Kick Off and Open House Breakfast April 11th from 7:30am to 9am. Stop by and view children’s art work, book projects and recycled art.

Other special activities for this week include:
Monday, April 11
Car Seat Check
ACPC
2pm to 4pm
Car seats that are inappropriate will be replaced. No appointment needed.
April 12
Story Hour at Library with Ms. Mel
10am
Children attending will receive a free book to take home and read.
April 13
Reading With Rudy
Matheson Park
12:15-1:15
Join Rudy, the Black Lab from the Alexander County Public Library’s "Reading with Rudy", under the canopy at the park. Children attending will receive a free book to take home and read.
April 14
Spring Art Extravaganza
ACPC
10:30-Noon
Parents, grandparents and children are invited to attend an art session designed with the child in mind. Children will participate in art projects to take home.
April 15
Story Hour at Library
10am
Children attending will receive a free book to take home and read.

"Stewards For Children" Community Program

2011-03-25T14:20:00.013-04:00

As part of Child Abuse Prevention Month, April 2011, Alexander County Partnership for Children is presenting
“Stewards of Children”- A program to empower Alexander County in the prevention of child sexual abuse.

“Stewards of Children” is proven to increase knowledge, improve attitudes and change child-protective behaviors. This revolutionary program is for any responsible adult who cares about the welfare of children including sports leagues, child care centers, after school programs, children’s clubs, church groups and more. Parents will also benefit from the program. Join us and learn:
• Facts about the problem of child sexual abuse
• The types of situations in which child sexual abuse might occur
• Simple, effective strategies for protecting children from sexual abuse
• The importance of talking about the prevention of sexual abuse with children and other adults
• Plus much, much more!

This powerful program will be presented on Thursday, April 28, 2011, 10:30am to 2pm at Taylorsville Presbyterian Fellowship Hall with lunch included and Thursday, April 28, 2011, 5:30pm to 9pm at Alexander Head Start with dinner included and child care available.

The real prevalence of child sexual abuse is not known because so many victims do not disclose or report their abuse. Researchers have suggested rates varying from 1% to 35%. Most professionals in the field of abuse use rates from 8% to 20%. Even if the true prevalence of child sexual abuse is not known, most will agree that there will be 500,000 babies born in the US this year that will be sexually abused before they turn 18 if we do not prevent it-1 in 6 boys and 1 in 4 girls will be abused before their 18th birthdays.

Adult retrospective studies show that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men were sexually abused before the age of 18 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2006). This means there are more than 42 million adult survivors of child sexual abuse in the U.S.

The primary reason that the public is not sufficiently aware of child sexual abuse as a problem is that 73% of child victims do not tell anyone about the abuse for at least a year. 45% of victims do not tell anyone for at least 5 years. Some never disclose (Smith et al., 2000; Broman-Fulks et al., 2007).
Think about it – attend “Stewards of Children” and in just 3 hours, you’ll have the information you need to better protect every child you know including your own. How can you say no? Sign up today! Space is limited and is available on a first come first serve basis.

1,002 Pledges Presented!

2011-03-25T14:17:00.004-04:00

An Alexander County delegation traveled to Raleigh on March 23rd to meet with local legislators to discuss the importance of services for young children. Pictured are L-R Bonnie Canter, Director of Millersville Child Development Center; Kim Draughn, Director of Lulus Child Enrichment Center; Representative Mark Hollo; and Dale Clary, General Manager of Carris Reels and Board Chair of the Alexander County Partnership for Children. Not pictured Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of Alexander County Partnership for Children. 1,002 people who work & live in Alexander Co signed the Pledge to Protect the Children. This pledge acknowledges that communities thrive when children thrive. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, ministers, business professionals, doctors, social workers, nurses, and retirees are just a few of the folks who took the time to say children are important in Alexander County. This effort was led by the Alexander County Partnership for Children Board of Directors and assisted by the Chamber of Commerce. Signed pledges were presented to Representative Mark Hollo and Senator Dan Soucek. Alexander County Partnership for Children is a United Way agency.

Is It Time to Say "Good- Bye Diapers"

2011-03-13T11:50:00.004-04:00

Thinking about saying good-bye to diapers for your child? Confused about how to begin the potty training process? It’s very difficult to go through the entire process of potty training without frustration or stress!

Alexander County Partnership for Children (ACPC) is once again providing a Potty Training 101 class for parents to help you in the process. Potty Training 101 is your resource for information on potty training toddlers, potty training readiness, potty training regression, and related information to assist you in successfully toilet training toddlers when they’re ready. Between the ages of 18 and 30 months, a child begins to show the readiness signs for potty training.

Potty Training 101 will be held on March 17th, 6pm at the ACPC office, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville-one mile past Food Lion. Come learn practical information, and proven techniques to ensure the best toilet-training experience for children and parents. Class will be taught by Tiffany Shumate CCR&R. Call Tiffany at 632-3799 extension 15 to register for this class or email tiffany@alexanderchildren.org. Child care can be made available upon request and no later than two days before the class.

More At Four Applications Available

2011-03-03T18:12:00.002-05:00

Applications for the More at Four Pre-Kindergarten Program are now available. The More at Four program is designed to provide quality educational experiences in order to enhance kindergarten readiness for four-year-olds who are at-risk of school failure. The program is community-based, voluntary, free to participants, and designed to prepare at-risk four-year-olds in North Carolina for success in school.

Alexander County currently has 119 More at Four slots, housed in both private child care centers and Alexander Head Start. For more information, or to get an application, e-mail Susan Cogdill at susan@alexanderchildren.org or call 632-3799, extension 12. Applications are available at Alexander County Partnership for Children, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville and oour website www.alexanderchildren.org.

If you are concerned about your child’s readiness for Kindergarten, More at Four encourages you to complete an application. Children who are not currently enrolled in a child care program are prioritized. Your child must turn 4 on or before August 31, 2011 in order to be eligible. Eligibility is also based on income.

The application deadline is May 2, 2011 and must be received by the Alexander County Partnership for Children. Send to P.O. Box 1661, Taylorsville, NC 28681 or deliver to the ACPC office at 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville on or before May 2nd in order to be eligible for one of the slots. Applications received after that day will be considered only when there are openings. More at Four classrooms operate on the school calendar. All More at Four services are free. Transportation is not provided.

Prevent Burns

2011-03-03T18:02:00.005-05:00

Did you know that young children’s skin is thinner than older children and adults, and their skin burns at lower temperatures and more deeply?

Since burns are recognized as one of the most painful and devastating injuries a person can sustain and survive, we want to arm you with the tools to keep your children safe from this devastating injury.

• A scald is a burn from hot liquid or steam.
• 60% of all scald injuries are to children ages 0-4.
• The most common places children experience scalds are in the kitchen or dining rooms and in the bathrooms.
• The maximum recommended residential water temperature is 120˚F (48˚C).

It is important to remember that children, especially those ages 4 and under, may not perceive danger, have less control of their environment, may lack the ability to escape a life-threatening burn situation and may not be able to tolerate the physical stress of a burn injury.
Top tips to keep your kids safe around the house.

KITCHEN AND HOT FOOD
• Keep children at least 3 feet from hot appliances, pots, pans or food.
• Use spill-resistant mugs when drinking hot liquids around children.
• Avoid using tablecloths or anything a child can pull on and cause hot food to spill.
• When cooking, use back burners and keep pot handles turned towards the back of the stove.
• Always tuck cords from appliances where children cannot reach them.
• Never hold a child when cooking something hot.
• Test and stir all food before serving children to make sure it is cool enough to eat.
• Supervise children closely when they are in or near the kitchen.
BATHROOM
• Always test the bath water with your hand before bathing children.
• When children are in or near the bath, watch them closely checking the water temperature frequently.
• If you are unable to control the temperature that comes out of your faucet, install special tub spouts or shower heads that can shut off the flow of water when it gets too hot.

Information from SafeKids http://www.safekids.org.

Learn How to Prevent Poisoning

2011-02-09T13:46:00.005-05:00

Every 30 seconds a child is poisoned in the United States. Many well-meaning adults fail to recognize how toxic certain substances can be and have them in child accessible places. Every parent needs to practice Poison Prevention! Come join other parents on February 24th from 6pm to 7pm at ACPC and learn more about this important topic. Child care is available upon request. Call Tiffany at 632-3799 to register for this important Parent Education Session.

Family and Friends CPR Now Available

2011-02-09T13:40:00.001-05:00

Family and Friends CPR classes are now being offered by Alexander County Partnership for Children. Family and Friends CPR is an instructional class on how to give CPR to an adult, child or infant. This program was created for anyone who wants to learn CPR and does not need a completion card. You will learn CPR basics and have a chance to practice those skills. Because of the nature of our funding, this class is only provided for people who have children ages 0-5 years of age.

This class is approx. 2 ½ hrs long and will be on March 3rd at 9am- Alexander County Partnership for Children, Highway 90 West Taylorsville. For more information please contact Tiffany Shumate at 632-3799 ext. 15. Registration is required. Alexander County Partnership for Children is a United Way agency.

Keep Children Riding Safe

2011-02-09T13:37:00.003-05:00

Is YOUR CHILD riding safe? Nearly 73% of child restraints are not installed or used correctly. The Alexander County Partnership for Children will be offering free car seat inspections and installations Friday, March 4, 2011 from 11:00am – 1:00pm in the parking lot of Community One Bank in Taylorsville. Please stop by and let a certified child passenger safety technician inspect your child’s seat.

If you are unable to attend this event, but would like to have your child’s seat inspected please call the Alexander County Partnership for Children at 828-632-3799 to schedule an appointment. The Alexander County Partnership for Children, a United Way agency, is a Permanent Checking Station and Buckle-Up site.

January Filled with Activities

2011-01-04T08:59:00.004-05:00

The Partnership for Children is planning new and exciting activities for 2011. Our January calendar is filled with activities for parents and children. To register for sessions call Tiffany at 632-3799, extension 15 or by email at tiffany@alexanderchildren.org. All sessions are FREE! Alexander County Partnership for Children is located one mile past Food Lion at 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville.

PLAY TO LEARN
Mt. Wesley Wesleyan Church
Tuesdays Beginning January 4, 2011
10am to Noon
or
Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Wednesdays Beginning January 5, 2011
10am to Noon
Come join other parents and their preschoolers in fun age appropriate play activities. Information is provided on child development, community resources, and ideas for activities that can be used at home. Children are introduced to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component all through play! Choose the site that is most convenient for you.

FANTASTIC FAMILY ROOM
Tuesdays and Thursdays Beginning January 4, 2011
9:30am to 11:30am
Alexander County Partnership for Children
Have you ever wished for a place for you and your child to go to meet other children and their families? Would you like for your child to have new and different educational toys to play with? This room is designed with the parent and the preschool child in mind. Children can play independently or play together with educational toys that are rotated on a weekly basis. With the colder weather this is a great place to bring your child for a few minutes or stay the entire time. Children birth to five and their families are welcome!

POTTY TRAINING 101
January 13, 2011
6:00pm-7:30pm
Alexander County Partnership for Children
This session is a must for all parents who need assistance in teaching potty training! Come learn practical information and proven techniques to ensure the best potty training experience for you and your child. Child care is available upon request

FAMILY and FRIENDS CPR
January 25, 2011
9:30am-11:30am
Alexander County Partnership for Children
Knowing CPR can mean the difference between life and death in many instances. This session is designed for parents, grandparents and family members who care for young children. The Family and Friends CPR program contains information on how to perform CPR in adults, children or infants and how to help an adult, child, or infant who is choking. This course is designed for family members, friends and members of the general community who care for children and want to learn CPR but do not need a course completion card.

“Be My Valentine” Workshop
January 27, 2011
10am to 11:30am
Alexander County Partnership for Children
Would you like for your child to show others how much he/she cares with handmade Valentines? This class will give children and adults a chance to work together to make original creations to take home and share with those they love! All materials are provided free by the Partnership for Children.

PARENTS SUPPORTING PARENTS
January 31, 2011
6:00pm to 7:00pm
Alexander County Partnership for Children
This meeting is for parents of children with special needs. If you are a parent or guardian of a child with special needs please make plans to join us. Our program will include information meeting the needs of your child. Child care is available upon request.

"Read 100" Comes to Alexander County!

2011-01-04T08:50:00.004-05:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children is pleased to announce a book exchange program designed specifically for our Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs)- “READ 100”. All licensed FCCHs who participate in ACPC trainings and are registered with ACPC (though a yearly licensing agreement) are eligible to participate.

ACPC recognizes that FCCHs are already doing a wonderful job reading to children. READ 100 will extend reading into the child’s home. This program is designed to assist children and families as they develop a love of reading.
ACPC has acquired books specifically for “READ 100”. Books are divided into reading collections. FCCHs will be able to check out the collections-one collection at a time. Spanish books will also be available.

With the collection in hand each child will be given a book to take home. The parent will then read the book to the child and sign off the child’s reading log. The book will then be returned to the FCCH and thus the exchange will begin when another book is sent home.

“READ 100” is designed to have children and their families read 100 books by June 15th. Children will have approximately 20+ weeks to complete the program. Children who successfully complete the program will be recognized with a certificate along with their photo with you in the paper. FCCHs with three or more children completing the “READ 100” program will receive a book collection for their FCCH.
This is an great program and ACPC is excited to offer “READ 100” to our FCCHs!

Amy Childers New ABCD Coordinator

2010-11-19T08:29:00.007-05:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children is pleased to announce Amy Childers, RN, NCSN as the coordinator of the Assuring Better Child Health and Development (ABCD) Project. ABCD is an initiative that improves the quality of child development services in primary care medical practices by enhancing developmental screening and referral for children ages 0-5 in their medical home. The project provides training and on -site technical assistance to medical practice sites to assist in the identification of children who may benefit from early intervention services. Services are provided to physicians and their staff to support the inclusion of a developmental screening and referral into well-child visits.

Amy is a BSN graduate of Lenoir –Rhyne University and has extensive experience in child health including serving as a pediatric nurse in local pediatric offices, a school nurse in the Alexander County Schools, and a public health nurse at the Alexander Health Department. She is a member of the Mu Alpha Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership for Children is pleased to have Amy as the ABCD Project Coordinator. “Amy’s pediatric background along with her knowledge of developmental issues in young children is an asset to the position. Amy has spent her professional career working with children and is committed to the mission of Alexander County Partnership for Children’s goal, ensuring Alexander County children enter school healthy and ready to succeed.”

Amy is a life-long resident of Alexander County resides in the Vashti community with her husband and two children.

Exciting Changes For CPR/First Aid Class!

2010-10-26T08:34:00.005-04:00

ACPC has switched to a program offered by the American Heart Association called Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid. The Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid Course contains information on how to manage illness and injuries in a child in the first few minutes until professional help arrives. Topics include First Aid Basics, Medical Emergencies, Environmental Emergencies, Adult and Infant CPR. This course was designed to meet regulations for day care centers in all 50 states. It is a 4 hour course that includes First Aid and CPR, and will be the same whether you are obtaining your initial certification or renewing your certification. The certification does have to be renewed every 2 years. We will offer this course at the ACPC office or it can be an on-site training at the child care center. To request the training on-site, the center must have 6 participants. Space is limited in every class so call early to register.

The Pay Off From Early Education

2010-10-21T14:18:00.002-04:00

Written By: Harold Sellars
RALEIGH -- Early childhood education has a tremendous impact on the national economic security and the viability of the American dream."

These are the words of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce - not typically known for speaking on behalf of children's issues.

Yet business leaders and economists are becoming some of the best advocates for young children. They know early childhood investments are critical to keeping the United States competitive in a global market. After all, their future workers are today's newborn babies. Building a strong and productive labor force largely depends on how well we baby-proof the economy today.

Just as parents baby-proof the top of the stairs to prevent a dangerous fall, policymakers must protect the economy from making a major misstep. Investments in early childhood education are the economic equivalent to investments in gates for stairs and covers for electrical outlets.

So what does economic baby-proofing look like? It starts with investing in high-quality early childhood programs. Science has shown that early experiences have biological consequences.

For instance, these experiences shape the brain's wiring, determining whether a child's brain architecture will provide a strong or weak foundation for all future learning. In addition, brains, like houses, are built from the bottom up. You can't put the second story on until you have built the foundation. This is why remediation is less effective and more costly than providing what children need to thrive from the get-go. Simply put, the building blocks for learning are well established before a child enters kindergarten.

The Chamber's new report, "Ready, Set, Go! Why Business Should Support Early Childhood Education," addresses these essential building blocks. It recommends that states support hiring qualified and effective early childhood educators, integrate early learning and care systems for children from birth to age 5, develop seamless transitions from the early childhood education system to the K-12 system and increase the availability of high-quality programs that support working parents.

Fortunately, beginning with the leadership of Gov. Jim Hunt in the early 1990s, North Carolina has led the way in early childhood. With Smart Start, North Carolina became the first in the nation to create a statewide early childhood system. It was one of the first to create a statewide high-quality pre-kindergarten program. And it was the first to develop a Quality Rating and Improvement Systems - the star-rated license. All are national models. The Chamber report highlights North Carolina's work as one of five promising practices included in the report.

The bad news is that even as the state's population of children birth to age 5 increases, funding for early childhood programs like Smart Start has been declining for the past decade. The consequences are magnified further as the percentage of children living in poverty also has increased significantly. The most recent census data found that almost a quarter of all North Carolina children are living in poverty. These are the very children that benefit most from high-quality early childhood programs.

Cutting effective early childhood programs hurts all of us. Our future depends on ensuring that today's children are tomorrow's successful and productive adults. We will be relying on them as our next generation of leaders, workers, parents and taxpayers.

But there are short-term benefits as well. The average working parent misses five to nine days of work per year because of child care problems, costing U.S. businesses $3billion a year in lost productivity. Such public investments also help attract new business. In addition, many child care programs are small businesses, and together they employ thousands of North Carolinians.

The Chamber's report concludes with an ominous warning:
"With current early childhood education resource levels, too many kindergarteners will continue to begin school ill-prepared, language skills and achievement scores in math and reading will likely remain at mediocre levels, costs for interventions during the K-12 years and after will continue to rise, high school graduation rates and postsecondary degree completion rates will likely remain unchanged, and businesses will lack the necessary workforce to fill the jobs of the future."
Let's be sure we baby-proof the economy to prevent such a tragedy from taking place.

Harold Sellars is senior vice president at Mechanics & Farmers Bank and a board member and secretary of The North Carolina Partnership for Children Inc.

Play to Learn Expands to New Site

2010-09-24T12:49:00.006-04:00

Parents will have another opportunity to sign up for a FREE playgroup for their, two three four and five year olds as well as younger siblings. Sessions are set to begin October 26th 2010 and will be throughout the school year. Classes will meet one time a week on Tuesdays from 10 to 12.

Play to Learn will be held at Mt Wesley Wesleyan Church, 403 Mount Wesley Church Rd. Hiddenite NC 28636. The two hour playgroup will meet on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon. Registration is currently being conducted for this FREE program. Interested parents are asked to register by calling the 828-632-3799 to receive a registration form or by emailing Tiffany.smartstart@charterinternet.com

Activities will be based on the Creative Curriculum for the children and help parents/caregivers by providing age appropriate adult/child interactions through play. Information on child development and community resources will be available along with ideas for activities to be used at home. Children will be introduced to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Sessions will include themes that allow children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support.

County Fair Exhibit is a Hit!

2010-09-19T15:06:00.006-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children placed an exhibit at the 2010 Alexander County Fair. The theme for the exhibit was Nursery Rhymes-cultural touchstones to build children's literacy. The exhibit showed displays of classic children's nursery rhymes including Hickory Dickory Dock and Little Boy Blue. The exhibit was well received by fair goers!

Start With the Arts Festival is a Success

2010-09-19T14:57:00.002-04:00

Children and families gathered at the Hiddenite Center on Saturday, September 11th to celebrate the arts. Children's art work was displayed along opportunities for experiencing art. Activities included stamping, foam art, wikki art, picture frame making, model magic, origami, canvas painting, art rubbings, and scratch art. Music was a part of the festival as children sang, danced and participated in creative movement. This fun fill celebration was a component of Start With the Arts Alexander a program funded by the LEGO Children's Fund.

"Terrific Tuesday and Thursdays" Begins in September!

2010-08-23T10:18:00.003-04:00

Have you ever wished for a place for you and your child to go to meet other children and their families? Do you want your child to meet other children? Would you like for your child to have new and different educational toys to play with?

Alexander County Partnership for Children (ACPC) announces the arrival of new opportunity for parents and their young children. Terrific Tuesdays and Thursdays begins September 7th and 9th in the Fantastic Families Room, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, one mile past Food Lion, in Taylorsville

The Fantastic Families Room at the Partnership for Children is a new and inviting room for children and their parents to gather each week. This room is designed with the parent and the preschool child in mind. Children can play independently or play together with educational toys that are rotated on a weekly basis.

Hours of operation for the Fantastic Families Room are Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30 to 11:30. Drop in for a few minutes or stay the entire time. Children birth to five and their family are welcome! It is not necessary to reserve a spot but it is suggested. Space is limited and on a first come first serve basis each week!

Potty Training 101-Sept 2nd

2010-08-05T09:27:00.004-04:00

This session is a must for all parents who need assistance in teaching potty training! Come learn practical information, and proven techniques to ensure the best potty training experience for your child and you. Potty training takes teamwork between parent and child. Success depends on patient, understanding adults and a child who is physically, intellectually, and emotionally ready. Between the ages of 18 and 30 months, a child begins to show the readiness signs. Come learn practical information, and proven techniques to ensure the best toilet-training experience for children and parents. Class will be taught by Tiffany Shumate on September 2nd, at 6pm. Parent Trainings are held at the partnership office, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville-one mile past Food Lion.

Parent Trainings are for parents of children in Alexander County 0-5. Child care can be made available upon request and no later than two days before the meeting. Registration is currently being conducted for this training; interested parents are asked to register by calling 828-632-3799.

Parents Supporting Parents Set to Meet

2010-08-05T09:15:00.002-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children will host another “Parents Supporting Parents” meeting on Monday, August 30th at 6pm. Meetings are held at the partnership office, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville-one mile past Food Lion. Anita Ledford, Disabilities Specialist with Smoky Mountain Center LME, will present information on services for children with special needs.

“Parents Supporting Parents” meetings are for parents of children with special needs, birth to high school. Snacks are provided for participants. Child care can be made available upon request (call 632-3799) and no later than two days before the meeting.

Openings Still Available in More At Four

2010-08-01T14:47:00.001-04:00

The More At Four Program has openings for the upcoming school year. More At Four is a preschool program designed to prepare four year olds for Kindergarten. Your child must turn 5 on or before August 31, 2011. Eligibility is based on income. Call Alexander County Partnership for Children at 632-3799 for more information.

Charity Reese is Awarded Certification

2010-07-28T10:48:00.003-04:00

The Alexander County Partnership for Children is pleased to announce Charity Reese has successfully passed the North Carolina Child Care Health Consultant Training Course though NC Division of Public Health and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Public Health and is certified as a Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC). The course provided information, resources and learning opportunities for Mrs. Reese and included web-based distance learning, face-to-face training, and a final project.

As a CCHC, Mrs. Reese is a health professional who knows about child health, child development, and health and safety in child care settings. Mrs. Reese works together with child care staff to promote healthy and safe environments for young children in Alexander County.

A Child Care Health Consultant has expert information, resources, and referrals to offer. Through onsite and telephone consultation, health education and technical assistance a CCHC works with individual child care facilities to help create environments that best support the healthy growth and development of young children. The CCHC partners with child care providers to:
• Assess the health and safety needs and practices in the child care facility.
• Develop strategies for inclusion of children with special care needs.
• Establish and review health policies and procedures.
• Manage and prevent injuries and infectious diseases.
• Connect families with community health resources.
• Provide health education for staff members, families and children.

Child Care Health Consultants interpret NC Child Care Rules and the National Health and Safety Performance Standards to provide guidance to child care programs. They are not responsible for regulating child care facilities. Mrs. Reese works is housed at the Alexander County Partnership for Children and her position is funded with NC Smart Start monies. Congratulations to Charity!!!

Start With the Arts Festival Planned

2010-07-28T10:25:00.003-04:00

Young children and their families are invited to participate in the Start With the Arts Festival on Saturday, September 11, 2010 from 10:30 to 12:30 at the Hiddenite Educational Center. The festival will include dance, music, and special art activities along with displays of children’s art, food and fun! You will not want to miss this exciting opportunity designed with children in mind. All activities are FREE! The Start With the Arts Festival is the culmination of Start With the Arts Alexander, funded by the LEGO Children’s Fund which provided a $5,000 grant to the Alexander Partnership for Children for Start With the Arts.

The Start with the Arts Program was developed by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and followed a curriculum to introduce the participating children to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Four sessions that lasted eight weeks were held during the past year. Each session included a theme that allowed participating children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support. Parents and children participated in each session together. Martha Burgin, artist with the Hiddenite Center taught the classes which reached out to over sixty children and families in Alexander County.

Changes Announced for Car Seat Program

2010-07-19T16:54:00.002-04:00

Beginning August 1st parents and legal guardians requesting a car seat inspection at the Alexander County Partnership for Children will need to make an appointment for this service. This change is being made to allow adequate time and resources for this valuable service. ACPC recognizes the importance of children riding safely and works to ensure this safety by providing free car seat inspections.

Alexander County Partnership for Children, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville is a Permanent Checking Station that inspects child passenger safety seats for appropriateness and correct installation. If the technician determines that the seat must be replaced due to damage, age, missing manufacturing information, recalled child passenger safety seat, improper fitting in car, improper weight and/or height requirements or any other reason based on technician’s knowledge of child passenger safety, ACPC will exchange the seat and provide a new seat for Alexander County residents.

Replacement seats are provided with funding from United Way, Buckle Up NC, and other donations. ACPC depends on donations from recipients to assist in providing the child passenger safety seat replacement. Inspections are completed by Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians and are completed by appointment only. Please call 632-3799 extension 16 to make an appointment request. Every attempt is made for the appointment at a time convenient for both the parent/legal guardian and the technician.

Play to Learn Returns!

2010-07-14T16:53:00.002-04:00

The Play to Learn Program at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 31 Pleasant Hill Church Road, Taylorsville returns on Wednesday, August 18th. This exciting program is a FREE playgroup for parents and their preschoolers, three four and five year olds as well as younger siblings. Sessions will be held through the school year and will meet one time a week on Wednesdays from 10am to Noon.

Activities are based on the Creative Curriculum for the children and help parents/caregivers by providing age appropriate adult/child interactions through play. Information on child development, community resources and ideas for activities to be shared at home are provided to participants

The Play to Learn Program uses several ways to reach children and enrich their learning experiences. The program provides an enriched, developmentally appropriate learning environment with materials and activities to assist in the development of physical, cognitive and social skills for developing children.

Registration is currently being conducted for this FREE program. Interested parents are asked to register by calling the 828-632-3799 to receive a registration form or by emailing Tiffany@alexanderchildren.org.

Start With Arts Alexander Session To Be Held in August

2010-07-12T12:04:00.007-04:00

Looking for that last minute back to school activity for your child? Don’t miss the final session of Start With the Arts Alexander, a FREE preschool arts program funded by the LEGO Children’s Fund and coordinated by the Alexander County Partnership for Children in collaboration with the Hiddenite Center. Classes will meet on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 beginning August 2nd with the final class on August 24th. All classes will be held at the Hiddenite Center. This is a great opportunity for three, four and five year old children.

Martha Burgin, artist with the Hiddenite Center will be teaching the eight classes. With over 20 years of experience as an art teacher Martha brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the program. She provides art lessons through the Hiddenite Center along with Art After School, Kids Summer Art classes, and educational outreach programs in local schools. When asked about the Start with the Arts Alexander program, Martha expressed her excitement to be a part of an Arts Program that incorporates all aspects of the Arts. “Parents will not want to miss this marvelous opportunity for young children. This program will help prepare children for kindergarten.”

Using the Start with the Arts Program developed by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Start With the Arts Alexander follows a curriculum to introduce the participating children to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Sessions include themes that allow participating children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support. Parents and children participate in each session together.

To register your child please call the Alexander County Partnership for Children at 632-3799 or email info@alexanderchildren.org.

Congratulations to 41 Certified Early Childhood Educators!!!

2010-07-12T11:38:00.004-04:00

North Carolina is the first in the nation to increase its workforce professional development standards by certifying the education of those who work directly with, intend to work with, and/or work on behalf of children ages birth to twelve. Early Educator Certification (EEC) recognizes and validates educational accomplishments of Early Educators. Individuals, children, programs, and society benefit when the education of those working in a profession increases. EEC is acknowledgement of an individual’s verified level of educational achievement, based on standardized scale.

The North Carolina Institute for Child Development Professionals (Institute), founded in 1993, is the certifying body for Early Educators in North Carolina. The mission of the institute is to define and advocate for the implementation of a comprehensive early childhood professional development system that provides supportive, accessible, and individually appropriate education which is linked to compensation in order to ensure high quality care and education services for children and families.

The Early Educator Certification Scale that reflects the amount of education earned in the field of early childhood education (ECE), child development (CD), and/or related fields of study. EEC is acknowledgement of an individual’s verified level of educational achievement, based on a standardized scale. EEC does not issue a personal or teacher license. For example, North Carolina Birth-through-Kindergarten licensure is granted under the authority of the North Carolina State Board of Education to individuals who successfully complete formal education and student teaching requirements through an accredited teacher program.

Currently over 41 early childhood educators in Alexander County have attained the Early Childhood Educator Certification. Centers and Family Child Care Homes participating in the certification process include: Alexander Head Start; LuLus Child Enrichment Center; Millersville Child Development Center; Salem Sloan Child Enrichment Center; and Sandy’s Family Child Care Home. Others centers and Family Child Care Homes in Alexander County are in the certification process or have obtained certification since the last certification listing. Congratulations to these Early Childhood Educators!!!

Play to Learn Program Expanding

2010-06-25T16:20:00.009-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children wants to expand their Play to Learn program to other sites in the county. Currently the Play to Learn program is offered at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church on Wednesday mornings. The partnership hopes to bring the program to the Bethlehem area, Hiddenite/Stony Point area or any area of the county where needed.

Play to Learn is a FREE preschool educational opportunity that brings children and parents together in a community setting and provides a quality educational experience for children. Classes meet one time a week for two hours and all materials and staff are supplied by the partnership office.

Activities are based on the Creative Curriculum for the children and help parents/caregivers by providing age appropriate adult/child interactions through play. Information is provided on child development and community resources, and ideas for activities to be used at home are furnished. Children will also be introduced to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Sessions will include themes that allow participating children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support.

If your church or community organization can offer building space for the Play to Learn program and is interested in learning about this community opportunity please contact Tiffany Shumate at Alexander County Partnership for Children, 632-3799. The Play to Learn program is a great way for churches and community organizations to enrich the lives of the children and families in Alexander County.

Rhonda Branton Joins Team ACPC

2010-06-15T13:04:00.004-04:00

Rhonda Branton has joined the Alexander County Partnership for Children as the Provider Support Coordinator. She has worked in the field of early childhood education for over nine years including owning and operating her Family Child Care Home, “All About Kids”, and working at The Sandbox Child Care Center in Hickory. Most recently she served as a More At Four classroom teacher at LuLus Child Enrichment Center in Taylorsville.

Rhonda holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Catawba Valley Community College. She is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Appalachian State University with a Bachelor of Science in Birth to Kindergarten education. In addition she holds a level eight Early Childhood Certification from the NC Institute for Child Development Professionals.

Rhonda will serve as the Raising a Reader Coordinator Program that is being implemented in three and four year old classrooms in Alexander County. This literacy program engages parents and children in a book cuddling activity through book rotation. Rhonda will also provide technical assistance to licensed child care facilities in Alexander County including Family Child Care Homes and Child Centers.

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership for Children welcomes the opportunity to have Rhonda as a member of the ACPC team. “Rhonda brings a wealth of experience to the provider support coordinator position. I look forward to her immediate impact in working to assist child care facilities in our county while she seeks to improve early childhood educational opportunities for our children.”

Tuesday For Tots

2010-06-15T08:01:00.001-04:00

On Tuesday, June 8th Alexander County child advocates and child care professionals from Alexander County traveled to the North Carolina General Assembly as part of Smart Start’s statewide “Tuesdays for Tots” initiative. The constituents met with Representative Ray Warren and Senator Steve Goss and asked these legislative members to “hold the line” and continue to invest in young children in Alexander County. Earlier this year more than 800 community leaders from across the state voted that access to quality early education and care was a top priority for young children.

“The Alexander County Partnership for Children, a Smart Start initative, is committed to ensuring that all local children have access to early education and health services to help them succeed in school and in life,” said Susan Cogdill. “However, while the challenges facing local families continue to grow, the funding that allows Smart Start to serve families is in jeopardy. Today’s meeting is to help legislators better understand the needs in our community and to ask that they ‘hold the line’ and continue to invest in young children and our state through Smart Start. Today’s children are North Carolina’s future leaders, parents and workers. Our state’s prosperity depends on their healthy development and growth.”

Tuesdays for Tots is Smart Start’s signature effort that takes place during the legislative session. On Tuesdays, advocates representing Smart Start’s 77 partnerships come to Raleigh for one-on-one meetings to educate lawmakers on the challenges facing young families and how Smart Start meets these critical needs.

Smart Start is North Carolina's early childhood initiative. For the past 16 years, it has been a recognized as a national model in helping ensure that young children enter school healthy and ready to succeed. Smart Start is a public-private initiative that provides early education and care funding to all of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Smart Start funds are administered at the local level through nonprofit organizations called Local Partnerships. The North Carolina Partnership for Children, Inc., (NCPC) is the statewide nonprofit organization that provides oversight and technical assistance for local partnerships.

Smart Start has experienced funding reductions over the past 9 years of $43.8 million. This amounts to a loss of $101.2 million when combined with the effects of inflation. These cuts are occurring at the same time that economists and other business leaders are advocating that investments in young children are one of the strongest investments not only for the short term but also for sustained growth and job creation. In fact, the North Carolina General Assembly’s Legislative Study Commission on Children and Youth concluded: "It is critical to ensure the healthy development of children in the State and improve outcomes for all children in order to ensure the future success of our State and our citizens."

Local residents traveling to the North Carolina General Assembly included Susan Cogdill, Leah Bumgarner, Tiffany Shumate, Charity Reese, Larissa Church and Bonnie Canter. The residents met with the following members of the Alexander County legislative delegation: Representative Ray Warren and Senator Steve Goss.

Week of the Young Child Observed

2010-04-30T16:13:00.003-04:00

As part of the national Week of the Young Child, April 11-17, 2010 Alexander County Partnership for Children celebrated young children with a focus on “Keeping Alexander Children Riding Safe”. Staff visited child care centers and Story Time at the Alexander County Public Library to present a program using Buckle Bear, a cuddly teddy bear that represents buckling up when riding in a car. The book “Do Kangaroos Wear Seat Belts” by Jane Kurtz was read to four year olds. The book was presented to each class and to the public library. All children received a sticker and activity sheet along with a brochure on car seat safety to share with parents.

This safety focus was chosen as the Partnership for Children continues to be a Permanent Checking Station for car seats. Alexander County residents may stop in Monday through Friday 9am to 4pm fro car seat inspections. Inappropriate seats are replaced free of charge. Replacement car seats are made available through United Way funding. Buckle Up Kids also funds additional seats. For more information on the car seat program please call the partnership at 632-3799.

Alexander County Partnership for Children provides numerous programs and activities in addition to the car seat program. The mission of the partnership is to ensure every child in Alexander County enter school healthy and ready to succeed. Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership stated, “Young children and their families depend on high-quality education and care, which help children get a great start, and bring lasting benefits to Alexander County. Early learning and early literacy in early childhood education to young children makes a difference in children’s lives.”

“All young children need and deserve high-quality early learning experiences that will prepare them for life, and Alexander County Partnership takes advantage of opportunities to provide quality early childhood experiences and do their part to help young children. Week of the Young Child is an example of a designated time that the Partnership for Children recognizes that early years are learning years for all young children.”

May Spring Fling!

2010-04-30T16:07:00.005-04:00

Make plans to join us for Spring Fling-May 27th from 4-7pm at Matheson Park. This is a time for family, fun, food, friendship, and fellowship. It's all about the POWER OF PLAY!!!

HAVE YOU HEARD THE LATEST?

2010-04-19T08:32:00.003-04:00

A Day For Child Care has been announced! Saturday, June 5th is a special training date designed with the child care provider in mind and is hosted by the Alexander County Partnership for Children. Join others just like you who work and care for young children in this scenic spot on Lake Hickory at Hollifield Leadership Center. Child care providers will be given a choice of Three Workshops and Six Hours of In-Service Credit. Included topics are some of the most up-to-date areas of interest in child care led by national trainers Larry Griffin and Rebecca Isbell from Kaplan Early Learning Company. You will not want to miss this special opportunity offered FREE. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited so register now to reserve your spot!

Tiffany Shumate Joins the Staff at ACPC

2010-04-19T08:05:00.001-04:00

Tiffany Shumate recently joined the staff of the Alexander County Partnership for Children as the Child Care Resource and Referral Coordinator. She brings a wide array of experience to the partnership formerly serving as a teacher in the Catawba County Schools and an art therapist with an adolescent and children’s treatment program. Tiffany’s background in child care includes working at the Wilkes Community College Child Development Center, working as a classroom assistant at the Children’s Center of Wilkes, formerly Jack-n-Jill Day Care and assistant after-school director at Jenkins Elementary in Hickory City Schools. Her most recent position was serving as a case manager for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Tiffany is a graduate of Lenoir-Rhyne College and resides in the Bethlehem Community with her husband. Susan Cogill, Executive Director for the Alexander Partnership for Children, expressed excitement on the hiring of Tiffany, “Tiffany brings a high level of energy and creativity to the partnership. She is committed to the mission of the partnership and the children of Alexander County.”

Parents Supporting Parents Group to Meet

2010-04-17T20:34:00.003-04:00

Parents Supporting Parents will meet on Monday, April 26th at 6pm - Alexander County Partnership for Children. This meeting is for parents of children with special needs. If you are a parent or guardian of a child with special needs please make plans to join us. Our program will include information on summer programs for children with special needs. While some program deadlines have passed it is never too late to plan for next summer! Food will be available for participants and child care will be made available upon request. Call the partnership at 632-3799 to reserve your spot at the Parents Supporting Parents Meeting!

Registration Begins for Play to Learn Session

2010-04-17T20:30:00.002-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children Introduces the Play to Learn Program. Parents have an opportunity to sign up for a FREE eight week session for their preschoolers, three four and five year olds as well as younger siblings. Sessions will begin April 28th 2010 and culminate in the summer. Classes will meet one time a week for eight weeks.

Tiffany Shumate will serve as the coordinator for this exciting opportunity. Activities will be based on the Creative Curriculum for the children and help parents/caregivers by providing age appropriate adult/child interactions through play. Information provided will be on child development and community resources, and furnish ideas for activities to be used at home. Children will also be introduced to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Sessions will include themes that allow participating children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support.

An eight week session of Play to Learn will begin April 28th 2010 and will be held at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 31 Pleasant Hill Church Road, Taylorsville NC 28681. The two hour playgroups will meet on Wednesdays from 10 to 12. Registration is currently being conducted for this FREE program. Interested parents are asked to register by calling the 828-632-3799 to receive a registration form or by emailing Tiffany.smartstart@charterinternet.com.

Learn More About Basic Sign Language for Preschoolers

2010-03-18T15:22:00.011-04:00

Are you curious about the use of sign language with young children? In young children sign language can speed up the acquisition of speech as it stimulates areas of the brain associated with speech and language. A child can develop gross motor skills needed for signing before they develop the fine motor skills associated with verbal speech. Most people think sign language is just for people who have a hearing impairment.

Language stimulation and conceptual information that will enhance vocabulary development in children is provided through sign language. Areas of the brain that are associated with speech and language are stimulated through sign language.

In some cases children with special needs experience difficulty with expressive language and verbal ability. Sign language is a means to give these children access to communication and strengthen their ability to produce expressive speech.

Research has shown that through sign language there are many developmental advantages for children with special needs. Sign language enhances a child’s development of speech, language, social, emotional and academic skills. Sign language breaks down communication barriers for children with various disabilities and needs.

Join the Alexander County Partnership for Children on Tuesday, April 13th at 6 p.m. to learn basic signs needed for a preschooler and suggestions for teaching/using new signs. Come with specific questions and specific things you want to learn. Lisa Johnson, Speech Language Pathologist with the CDSA, will be leading the class at ACPC.

April 2010- Autism Awareness Month

2010-03-18T12:19:00.008-04:00

Research now suggests that autism affects 1 in 100 children and 1 in 70 boys. As a parent or caregiver it is important to learn the early signs of autism. As part of Autism Awareness Month, April 2010, Alexander County Partnership for Children will be hosting an educational session for parents and child care providers-“Understanding Autism”. This educational session will be held on Monday, April 12th at 6 p.m. at the Partnership Office, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorville. Aryn Williams, Early Childhood Outreach Services Program Coordinator with Easter Seals UCP North Carolina will be leading this informative session. Join us to learn early signs of autism including “red flags” that indicate the need for immediate evaluation.

It is recommended for parents and child care providers to understand the typical developmental milestones that a child should be reaching at different ages. Younger children should have their development screened at every well visit with a highly validated developmental screening tool. Be sure to talk to your pediatrician or family doctor about developmental screenings.

Another Session of Start With the Arts Begins!

2010-03-18T12:13:00.001-04:00

Register your preschooler for Start with the Arts Alexander-a free art program for three, four, and five year old children in Alexander County. The first class begins Monday, March 22nd and last for eight weeks. Sessions will be held at the Alexander County Partnership for Children, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville from 10:30 to 11:30.

Start with the Arts Alexander will provide children and their parent and opportunity to experience various forms of art including music, movement, and dramatic play. Children may be accompanied by a grandparent in the event the parent is unable to attend. Support for Start with the Arts Alexander is provided by the LEGO Children’s Fund.

Registration is limited to 15 children. If sufficient interest is indicated a second class will be scheduled on Tuesdays. Call the Partnership office at 632-3799 to get started with registration.

March Reading Madness Is a Success

2010-03-12T16:54:00.002-05:00

Alexander County Partnership for children was the site of the kick off for “March Reading Madness” on Monday, March 1st. The event was designed to spark interest in reading among preschoolers in the county. Volunteers began the morning by listening to Ms. Mel, Children’s Librarian at the Alexander County Public Library, read the book “If You Give a Moose a Muffin.” while enjoying a light breakfast of muffins, coffee, juice, and milk. Following the reading Ms. Mel provided suggestions to volunteers to assist them in reading to the children.

Community volunteers then traveled to eight local child care centers to read a favorite book of children of all ages “If You Give a Moose a Muffin” by Laura Numeroff. Children learned about a series of events that happens when a moose is given a muffin in a story of prediction. Volunteers then invited children to join in a muffin snack. The Partnership for Children provided a copy of the book for each classroom.

Over 400 children ages three, four and five were reached through this Partnership for Children outreach activity held in 29 classrooms that included the following sites: Salem Sloan Child Enrichment Center, First Baptist Child Development Center, Alexander County Head Start, Calling Kids Child Development Center, , Millersville Child Development Center, Small Hands Day Care, Alexander Central High School Child Development Center and LuLu’s Child Enrichment Center.

Organizations and businesses providing volunteers for this event included: Kohl’s of Hickory A Team, Friends of the Alexander County Public Library, Alexander Chamber of Commerce, Alexander County Partnership for Children Board of Directors, Alexander Department of Social Services, Alexander County Public Library, First Community Bank, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. The Partnership for Children extends appreciation to all the volunteers who made this event a reality: Kay Hamby, Kendra Dyson, Mitzi Bumgarner, Linda Dunbar, Denise Elder, Chelsie Brady, Jordan Estes, Nancy Mecimore, Glenn Deal Jr, Kathy Riddle, Deb Grenn, Melissa Hager.

The partnership is pleased to offer this activity as literacy event that joins community partners in providing a collaborative reading effort as a means to increase interest in reading. If you or your organization is interested in participating in future community literacy events for preschoolers please call the partnership at 632-3799.

Free Fun Friday Is Almost Here

2010-03-03T10:46:00.003-05:00

Once again Alexander County Partnership for Children is reaching out to offer another fun service for children. The Partnership will be offering a FREE FUN FRIDAY time for children and their parents and/or grandparents at the office, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville, on Friday, March 19th at 10:30 a.m. Ashley Benfield will lead the session and demonstrate how to make seasonal craft items with children. Participants will work together to make the fun crafts during the session that families can take home to enjoy. All materials are free of charge. Pre register for FREE FUN FRIDAY by calling 632-3799. Space is available on a first come first serve basis.

Parent Support Meeting Rescheduled for March 30th

2010-02-13T18:01:00.002-05:00

Does your child have a special need? Would you like to meet other parents who can relate to your situation? Do you ever feel like you are the only parent who has a child with special needs?

If you can answer yes to any of these questions the Alexander County Partnership for Children would like to invite you to join other parents of children with specials needs at the Alexander County Partnership for Children, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville on Tuesday, March 30th at 6pm. Parents like you will join together to form a group that has endless possibilities. This group can provide support for each other, provide educational programs and/or be an advocacy group among other things.

The sky is the limit for this Exceptional Group of Parents! You will not want to miss this exciting meeting! Email us at infor@alexanderchildren.org or call 632-3799. Child care will be made available upon request.

Reading Event Coming Soon

2010-02-13T17:59:00.004-05:00

Preschoolers across Alexander County will have the opportunity to participate in a county-wide reading event on March 1st sponsored by the Alexander County Partnership for Children- MARCH READING MADNESS.

Volunteers will gather at the Alexander County Partnership to kick off the event with a special reading by Ms. Mel, the Children’s Librarian at the Alexander County Public Library. Community volunteers will then travel to local child care centers to read a favorite book of children of all ages “If You Give a Moose a Muffin” by Laura Numeroff. Children will be mesmerized by the zany tale of the events that happen when a moose is given a muffin! Volunteers will then invite children to join in a muffin snack.

The partnership is pleased to offer this activity as literacy event that joins community partners in providing a collaborative reading effort as a means to increase interest in reading. Volunteers are still needed for this event. Please call the partnership at 632-3799 to be a part of this exciting event!

Child Care Health Consultant Begins Work

2010-02-13T16:50:00.002-05:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children announces the employment of Charity Reese, RN as the Child Care Health Consultant to serve child care providers and families in Alexander County. Charity brings over 10 years of experience in health care including her most recent position serving as a registered nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Gaston Memorial Hospital, Gastonia.

As a Child Care Health Consultant, Charity will provide a vital link between the children in child care and preschools, parents, providers, and community resources. Charity will assist child care providers and preschool teachers in addressing health and safety environmental needs as well as specific health needs of young children. Services will include: on-site consultations, immunization record reviews, and health and safety related educational opportunities for child care providers. Assistance with referrals to the children’s medical home and other services including Children's Developmental Services Agency (CDSA) or Exceptional Children’s Program may occur as needed.

Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of the Alexander County Partnership for Children expressed excitement in Charity joining the staff of the Partnership. “Charity brings a wealth of nursing experience. I am extremely excited to have someone with Charity's experience join our staff. Charity will be an asset to the Partnership.” The Child Care Health Consultant’s office is located at the Partnership for Children, 1565 NC Highway 90 West, Taylorsville.

Raising A Reader Introduced

2010-02-13T16:48:00.004-05:00

Imagine children spending hours each week sitting in their parent’s lap as they read a favorite storybook together. Then imagine these same children arriving at Kindergarten already in love with reading. Children in Alexander County enrolled in More at Four classrooms are going to make this vision a reality through a literacy initiative- Raising A Reader!

As a Raising a Reader affiliate, Alexander County Partnership is pleased to announce the introduction of this critically acclaimed reading program for ten More at Four classrooms and 159 preschoolers. The purpose of Raising A Reader is to foster healthy brain development, parent-child bonding and early literacy skills critical for school success by engaging parents in a routine of daily “book cuddling” with their children. One in three children entering kindergarten lacks basic pre-reading skills, which is proven to be a key factor in determining high-school graduation and lifelong success. There is a need at the national, state, and local level for effective early literacy programs.

Each week, bright red book bags filled with beautiful picture books will be rotated into homes. The book bag and its contents quickly will become a child's favorite toy resulting in an irresistible request: “Please read to me!” Raising a reader will instill a love of reading in children that lasts a lifetime. Based on a proven theory of change, Raising A Reader is a child-driven program encompassing early childhood educators, parents and librarians in a coordinated “read-aloud” effort.
Alexander County early childhood professionals attended and afternoon training at the Partnership for Children on the Raising a Reader program. Ashley Benfield, Provider Support Specialist and Raising a Reader Coordinator taught ways to engage parents in “read-aloud” strategies anchored to language development research and storytelling traditions. These approaches will help inspire families to share books with their children. The program and its materials are age-appropriate and tailored to suit the diverse cultural traditions, ethnic and linguistic demographics present in Alexander County today.

Funding for this literacy initiative is provided by More at Four. Alexander County Partnership for Children is a United Way agency.

Join Us

2009-12-17T11:02:00.005-05:00

Come join us and be a part of a Parents of Children with Special Needs Support Group on Tuesday, Jan 19th at 6pm-Alexander County Partnership Office. This will be a meeting to make plans for upcoming meetings and to network with other parents. The Exceptional Children's Assistance Center (ECAC) out of Davidson will be joining us to share information. Established in 1983, ECAC offers a variety of projects and services designed to meet the needs of NC parents, families, students, educators, and other professionals. We hope you will be a part of this group! Call 828.632.3799 for more information.

Training Opportunity

2009-12-17T10:41:00.006-05:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children will host a child care provider training on Thursday, February 18th from 6-8pm. The Food Program from Guilford Child Development Program will present an exciting program on anti-oxidants-their benefits and incorporation of anti oxidants in a child's diet.

Add this training to your calendar. Call Vickie Vinson at the Partnership office-828.632.3799 to register.

Start with the Arts Alexander

2009-11-18T11:05:00.004-05:00

The Alexander County Partnership for Children is the recipient of a Grant from the Lego Children’s Fund, Enfield, CT. This $5,000 grant received by the Partnership will be used to implement “Start with the Arts Alexander”, a free preschool arts program.

Alexander County Partnership for Children is pleased to have secured local artist Martha Burgin to conduct the art sessions for children. With over 20 years of experience as an art teacher Martha brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the program. Martha is affiliated with the Hiddenite Center. She provides art lessons through the Hiddenite Center along with Art After School, Kids Summer Art classes, and educational outreach programs in local schools. When asked about the Start with the Arts Alexander program, Martha expressed her excitement to be a part of an Arts Program that incorporates all aspects of the Arts. “Parents will not want to miss this marvelous opportunity for young children. This program will help prepare children for kindergarten.”

Using the Start with the Arts Program developed by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the coordinator will follow a curriculum to introduce the participating children to visual arts, creative drama, creative movement, and music with a literacy enhancement component. Sessions will include themes that allow participating children to receive take home materials to extend the session into their home with parental support. Parents and children will participate in each session together.

According to Susan Cogdill, Executive Director of Alexander County Partnership for Children, “The Arts are an important component of preschool development. The preschool years can influence a child’s interest in the Arts. The Lego Children’s Fund will provide children throughout the county with an opportunity to experience a meaningful program and introduction to the Arts that will carry over to the elementary years and beyond.”

The Start with the Arts Program will use several factors to reach children effectively and enrich their learning experiences. The arts are inherently motivating and critical to the development of cognitive, linguistic, motor, social, and emotional skills. The arts are a natural means for enriching children’s lives with contributions from many cultures and ethnic origins. The arts, focused with a theme approach, work well with most early childhood programs. The arts and literacy are natural partners. Arts activities and arts learning should be continued and extended to the home environment.

At the conclusion of the Start with the Arts Alexander Program a Children’s Start with the Arts Alexander Festival showcasing children’s art work along with opportunities for children to perform creative movement, drama and music activities will be held.

An eight week session of Start with the Arts Alexander will begin in January 2010 and will be held at the Alexander County Partnership for Children office, 1565 Highway 90 West, Taylorsville. Registration is currently being conducted for this free program. Interested parents are asked to register by calling the 828-632-3799 to receive a registration form or by emailing info@alexanderchildren.org.

Looking Together

2009-10-30T15:33:00.019-04:00

Sometimes it is helpful to look at things together as a group-with folks that look through the same kind of glasses that you look through each day. Beginning in January 2010 Alexander County Partnership for Children will offer a Support Group for Parents of children with special needs. This group will meet at the Partnership for Children building one evening a month. Speakers will be a part of the meeting. This is an opportunity for parents to receive the information they request and want. And of course, parents will have the opportunity to network with each other and learn from each other too! So make plans to start the New Year with this group. Please email us at info@alexanderchildren.org to indicate your interest. We hope to hear from you!

Parent Sessions With You In Mind

2009-10-29T14:38:00.008-04:00

Have you heard about the Parent Sessions available at the Partnership for Children office? Upcoming classes include:

November 20th
Immunizations and Well Check Ups
How often will you newborn need to visit the pediatrician for check ups and how many shots will he receive in the first year. Join us to find out!

December 18th
Choosing Quality Child Care
How do you know what child care situation is right for your child? You will receive a check list and information regarding what to look for in a quality early childhood program.

As part of our ongoing commitment to reading, Parent Session participants will receive a free book for their child! Call us at 828-632-3799 to register for a class or drop us an email at info@alexanderchildren.org. Additional classes will be begin in January 2010. Follow this blog to find out more info.

ITS-SIDS Class Rescheduled

2009-10-26T16:51:00.011-04:00

Mark you calendar! The ITS-SIDS class for child care providers has been rescheduled to Thursday, November 19th from 6:00 - 7:30 PM at Alexander County Partnership for Children. Please contact Vickie Vinson at vickie.smartstart@charter.net to register for the class or call (828) 632-3799. Be sure to check out our training calendar at www.alexanderchildren.org.

Thanksgiving Holiday Fun

2009-10-23T09:27:00.000-04:00

As we are coming into the fall and holiday season, there are many meaningful activities parents can do with their children at home while enjoying the season. Here are a few developmentally appropriate games and activities you can do you with your child during this season of thanks and celebration. Remember, every time you do one of these activities, or activities like these, you are helping to prepare your child for success in school.

*Comparing Corn Items – Let your child compare fresh corncobs, popcorn kernels, dried Indian corn, canned corn, cornmeal, corn flakes, and corn chips.

*Turkey Toss Game – Take a large brown grocery bag and glue 2 small lunch bags (gathered at the tops) to sides of the bag to look like drumsticks. You can then take turns throwing in the stuffing (sock balls or bean bags you can call cornbread). This is a great activity to improve your child’s motor skills and it is very simple and inexpensive.

*Art – Use fall leaves, grains, acorns, and nuts to make fall collages. You can also have your child paint with feathers.

*Smell Game – This time of the year is filled with smells. Have your child close his eyes and pass items under his nose to have him identify the smell. Cinnamon, apples, fresh baked bread, pumpkin pie…just to name a few!

New Website Announced!

2009-10-22T17:11:00.005-04:00

Alexander County Partnership for Children, a local United Way agency, is pleased to announce the launch of their new web site at www.alexanderchildren.org. The website is designed to inform and educate website visitors to the extensive programs and services of the Partnership for Children.

The Partnership for Children is a local community initiative for children, their families, and child care providers working to ensure that children birth to five enter school healthy and ready to succeed. Children are a priority of the Partnership. Funding sources for the Partnership for Children include NC Smart Start, NC Division of Child Development, More at Four, United Way of Alexander County, private contributions and grant sources. For over 15 years ACPC has served the children and families of Alexander County with programs that enhance early childhood education for the youngest citizens.

Often the Partnership for Children is referred to by specific programs offered. Program components of the Partnership for Children includes Smart Start, North Carolina's nationally recognized and award-winning early childhood initiative designed to ensure that young children enter school healthy and ready to succeed.

Another program component, More at Four Pre-Kindergarten Program is a high-quality pre-k program that serves children who are at risk and prepares them for success in school. Pre-kindergarten is a research-proven strategy for school readiness.

The Partnership for Children is a Permanent Checking Station for Child Passenger Seats. Parents/caregivers can receive information about child passenger safety (CPS) and have their child restraints and seat belts checked to be sure they are installed and used correctly. Education and installation assistance is performed by nationally certified CPS Technicians Monday through Friday 9am to 4pm. United Way of Alexander County provides funding for replacement car seats for residents of the county.

The Buckle Up Kids program assist parents and other caregivers by providing a limited number of low-cost child restraints and education on their use to qualifying families. Trained, qualified personnel are allowed to provide educational and installation assistance to parents/caregivers, including those receiving BUK seats. Child restraints distributed by BUK programs are purchased through funding from the North Carolina Governor's Highway Safety Program.

Keeping Kids Riding Safe

2009-10-22T16:30:00.000-04:00

Friendship Lutheran Church Preschool in Whittenberg was the recent site of a Child Passenger Seat Check through the Child Passenger Seat Program of Alexander County Partnership for Children. Certified child passenger seat technicians inspected and corrected car seats for children in the three year old preschool class as they were picked up at the end of the preschool day. Car seats were replaced as needed. Parents, grandparents and guardians also received information on proper installation of car seats.

Lori Branch, Preschool Director at Friendship Lutheran Church Preschool, stated: “Child safety is important to us. We were excited to have the Partnership for Children come on site to our preschool to offer this service. This was convenient and easy for our parents and grandparents. The Partnership for Children always provides important services for our preschool.”

According to statistics an estimated four out of five children who are placed in child restraints and booster seats are improperly restrained. The goal of the Child Passenger Seat Check is to “Keep Alexander Kids Riding Safe”. Funding for this activity is through Buckle Up Kids and United Way of Alexander County. For more information on car seat safety visit the Alexander County Partnership for Children website www.alexanderchildren.org.

To schedule a child passenger seat check at your organization contact ACPC at 632-3799. This is a free service of the Partnership for Children. Child passenger seat checks are conducted Monday through Friday 9am to 4pm at the ACPC office, 1565 NC Hwy 90 West, Taylorsville, one mile past Food Lion. Appointments for car seat checks are recommended but not required.

You Found Us!

2009-10-22T11:53:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the Alexander County Partnership for Children blog. The Alexander County Partnership for Children demonstrates success by achieving outcomes that support our mission to “ensure that every child in Alexander County enters school healthy and ready to succeed”. This success is achieved with community support which is evident in a focused and conscientious board of directors, dedicated staff, mission driven direct service providers and committed and professional child care providers