The bustling halls of Berry Preschool, a part of the Logansport Community School Corporation located at the intermediate school, were filled with excited children on Wednesday morning. Divided into groups of four, these young learners eagerly constructed towers using plastic drinking cups. Despite the clatter of tumbling towers, the atmosphere was vibrant and filled with enthusiastic energy.
After tidying up their construction remnants, the children lined up against the wall to practice songs they are preparing for their preschool graduation. These activities were a part of Berry Preschool’s engagement in the Week of the Young Child, an annual event organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. This initiative highlights the critical role early childhood years, from birth to age eight, play in setting the foundation for a child’s future academic and life successes.
First celebrated in 1971, the Week of the Young Child features different themed activities each day. Wednesday was designated as Work Together Wednesday. During the event, a teacher spurred enthusiasm with the question, “What kind of tower are you going to build?” eliciting an animated response from a young boy who exclaimed his intention to build a “big one,” illustrating his aspiration with an enthusiastic leap.
Melanie Lang, the director of Berry Preschool, emphasized the significance of early childhood education. She noted that in Indiana, retaining third graders who do not pass the IREAD test illustrates a reactive approach. Instead, involving children in early education is a proactive strategy for fostering academic growth. Alex Pasquarosa, an instructional assistant, described the week as chaotic yet beloved by the children, who were eager to engage in the activities.
The children’s week included Tasty Tuesday, where they delighted in trying new foods and making their own treats, enhancing their joy and fostering a sense of accomplishment. Jen Corcoran, a preschool teacher, expressed hope that the community would recognize the importance of preschool, which is often underrated. She highlighted the development of social, emotional, fine, and gross motor skills through these activities.
The week also featured Music Monday, Artsy Thursday, and will culminate with Family Friday. On Monday, sixth graders from Logansport Intermediate School played instruments for the preschoolers, and Friday will see families joining classroom activities. Teacher Sarah Beck shared these plans, adding to the excitement of the week.
Lang expressed her delight in witnessing children engage in activities that foster creative problem-solving. She underscored the need for state recognition and funding for early childhood programs, advocating for universal funding to proactively address educational concerns. Fortunately, the commitment of the local school corporation, spearheaded by Superintendent Michele Starkey, ensures support for these vital educational initiatives.
The Evolving Landscape
The Week of the Young Child at Berry Preschool shines a light on the transformative potential of early childhood education. For families and the community, such initiatives emphasize the importance of nurturing a child’s development from a young age. These activities not only build foundational skills but also enhance social interactions and foster a love for learning. As children engage in diverse experiences, they develop critical life skills that contribute to their future success.
For the broader community, supporting early childhood education can lead to long-term benefits, such as improved academic performance and greater social cohesion. By recognizing and investing in the early years, communities can contribute to a more educated, engaged, and thriving population. As educational policies evolve, the proactive funding of early childhood programs holds the promise of a brighter future for all.