News:
Kent County families with 1st time mothers with babies less than 3 months of age, who are eligible for WIC or Food Stamps, are invited to participate in a research program that provides in-home education on nutrition and infant feeding. Participants will receive up to $90 in gift cards for participating in the program. Contact Monica Smith, MSU Extension, at 336-3265 for more information.
Women’s Expo Booth, March 12th-14th
Come and see our booth at the Grand Rapids Women’s Expo located at the DeVos Place Downtown Grand Rapids – www.kohlerexpo.com.
We are looking for volunteers to help out at our booth, admission is FREE for volunteers, 632-1007.
Upcoming Meetings:
The Great Start Parent Coalition holds regular meetings at least once a month. FREE childcare and a light dinner are always provided.
Unless otherwise noted, meetings are from 6:00-8:30 p.m. at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church/Hill Child Development Center 250 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids 49503.
Please RSVP at 632-1007.
Sharing Science & Nature with Young Children, March 25th
Come and see a demonstration of how to help young children learn simple science/nature concepts by blending literature, manipulatives, puppets, art activities and resources from nature. There will also be a time to investigate and participate in a make-and-take activity. Certificates will be give out for childcare hours.
Early Childhood Activities Workshop Flier – English
Early Childhood Activities Workshop Flier – Spanish
Legislative Process Training, April 22nd
Matt Gillard, a legislative and policy consultant for the Early Childhood Investment Corporation, will guide us through some basic legislative processes as well as equip us with advocacy tools and ideas for working with our state legislators. Matt Gillard is a former State Representative and a champion of early childhood investment. Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn more about your state government and how you can get involved in advocacy for children!
Legislative Night, May 13th
Join us for a Meet & Greet with the candidates for the Michigan Senate and House of Representatives. This is an opportunity to hear their opinions on early childhood issues and ask them your questions. Learn more about current research and polls related to early childhood, as the Parent Coalition presents this important information to educate our new candidates on why early childhood needs to be a top state priority.
Diaper Drive, May-June
Help us collect 25,000 diapers for the young children of Kent County again this year. Drop off location details will be posted in late April.
Star Power Rally, May 19th
Come and join us at the State Capital with your children to let our legislators know how important it is to invest in early childhood.
Daniel Hodgins- Grand Rapids Public Library- Main Library, Ryerson Auditorium Level 3, June 3rd
Getting Kids Out of the Jell-O, and Other Mishaps……
Come and listen to Dan Hodgins will discuss the importance of reading and strategies in dealing with bedtime, toileting, money, chores, sibling fighting and much more.
Dan Hodgins is an exceptional, internationally renowned presenter and author of many articles on child development. He has a new book released, titled Boys: Changing the Classroom, Not the Child by Wilderness Press. He has also been showcased in a DVD titled Looking Through the Eyes of Boys and Girls (Starnet, 2007). His work has been featured in national publications including, International Cooperative Nursery, and Early Childhood News.
Whitecaps Fatherhood Event, June 26th
Collaboration Meeting, July 15th