Week of the Young Child this week

The Southwest Nebraska Early Childhood Coalition invites area residents to celebrate the Week of the Young Child, which is observed this year during the week of April 18-24. It is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. It was first celebrated in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years lay the foundation for children's success in later life. Special activities are planned for each day at area licensed child care providers, preschools, and early elementary classrooms.

Monday was Backwards Day. Children might wear their clothing backwards, or the day's schedule might be run backwards. There might be some activities where the children walk backwards or talk backwards.

Tuesday is Chalk the Walk Day. Children will decorate the sidewalks outside of child care homes, centers, preschools, and schools. Or the children might provide artwork on walks in front of downtown businesses. Chalk was provided by the Southwest Nebraska Early Childhood Coalition.

Wednesday will be Bubblemania. Children will be using bubbles for science, art, music, and creative activities. Bubbles and a folder of ideas were provided by the Southwest Nebraska Early Childhood Coalition.

Thursday will be Purple Day and Family Fun Night. Children, providers, and teachers will be wearing something purple all day. Anyone wearing purple to Family Fun Night at the Fairgrounds in McCook on Thursday evening will be able to pick up a special prize at the Family Resource Center booth. Family Fun Night is a FREE event where families can do all sorts of fun things together. It begins at 4 p.m. and goes until 8 p.m. It is co-sponsored by Red Willow County Cooperative Extension and the Southwest Nebraska Early Childhood Coalition.

Friday will be Pajama Day. Children<\m>and perhaps their child care providers or teachers might wear their pajamas all day. Activities might involve sleeping bags and having a middle-of-the-day slumber party.

For more information on the Week of the Young Child, the Southwest Nebraska Early Childhood Coalition, or any of these events, call Mary or Kathy at the Family Resource Center, 345-2609 or 888-576-6777, in McCook.