As part of its mission to advance quality early learning initiatives for the region’s young children, Smart Beginnings Greater Prince William (SBGPW) partners with business leaders, health professionals, schools, childcare providers and other community stakeholders to help young children start school healthy and ready to learn.
Early literacy is a key component of school readiness and several programs are currently underway in the region, including “Books 4 Babies” and “Reach Out and Read.” Books 4 Babies, a program of SBGPW, provides many families with their baby’s first book as a way to encourage parents to read to their young children from Day One. Over 1,900 books and other educational materials, such as a bookmark about a baby’s brain development and a wheel describing developmental milestones from birth to age five, have been distributed to newborns at Novant Health Prince William Medical Center since October 2013.
The Books 4 Babies program has been expanded in 2015 to include expectant mothers participating in Centering Pregnancy groups at the Greater Prince William Community Health Center. Reach Out and Read is a program for medical providers to promote early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms.
Pediatricians read a book to young children during a well-child checkup, integrating children’s books and advice to parents about fostering a love of books and reading from an early age.
“Each child, until the age of five, receives an age-appropriate book at every well-child visit,” said Dr. Anastasia Williams of Olde Towne Pediatrics, which has offices in Manassas and Gainesville. “We encourage parents to talk to their children and also to read, sing and rhyme to them everyday. This will significantly increase the child’s vocabulary and promote healthy brain development, among many other benefits.”
Smart Beginnings Greater Prince William is also participating in a campaign currently running between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day (May 20-June 21) called Smart Beginnings Start with Families: Healthy Children are Ready to Learn. The campaign, which is sponsored by the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation and the American Academy of Pediatrics-Virginia Chapter, focuses on the importance of building a strong foundation for good health in the early years, so that young children will start kindergarten healthy and ready to learn. Parents can download free resources and tip sheets at www.smartbeginnings.org.
“Business leaders, educators, health professionals and other community stakeholders are working together to ensure a healthy start for Virginia’s young children, giving them the best opportunity for school, life and workforce success,” said Kendra Kielbasa, Director of Smart Beginnings Greater Prince William.
For more information about local early learning initiatives, visit www.smartbeginningsgpw.org.
Recent Stories
Mason William Tredinnick, 18, was charged with malicious wounding following an altercation at a local church. The incident occurred on the evening of May 2 at the Chapel Springs Assembly of God Church in Bristow.
Prince William County invites residents to an open house at the Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building on Saturday, May 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at 15941 Donald Curtis Drive in Woodbridge, the event is designed to inform the community about the Office of Community Safety (OCS) and its collaboration with various county agencies and community partners.
Howdy, Potomac Local readers! The Lane Ranger here with an important update for your late-night commutes.
As the debate heats up over who serves the best pizza in Potomac Local Land, your favorite spots are taking the lead. Current front-runners include Montclair Family Restaurant, Brixx, and a variety of beloved local joints. But the competition isn’t over yet!
We are honored to have the Honorable Andrea O. Bailey of the Potomac District, along with the esteemed leadership of Prince William County, hosting our 4th Annual 5K Walk for Mental Health Awareness. This event is a testament to their commitment to educate, advocate for, and dispel myths and stigma surrounding mental illness.
Dust off your running or walking shoes, bring your pets, and move with us in this county-wide FREE event in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month on Saturday, May 18th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This year’s theme is Movement: Moving for Your Mental Health.
We will walk along a scenic multi-purpose trail in a wooded setting with sufficient signage to meet the needs of the walkers at Locust Shade Park, 4701 Locust Shade Drive, Triangle, Virginia 22192.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Struggling with anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life with our professional psychotherapy services.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need on your journey to mental wellness.
Through personalized therapy sessions, we create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you’re dealing with past traumas, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we tailor our approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
