ELCHC Newsletter: Q4 April – June 2023
A Message from the CEO
Summertime is here, and in Hillsborough County, it’s our opportunity as parents to ensure that learning continues through the summer months. Research shows that 90% of a person’s brain develops by age 5, making this period a critical time for learning and development. We must remember that learning and playtime go hand in hand. Through play, children develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and social-emotional growth.
As parents, we can play a vital role in our children’s development by engaging in activities that stimulate their brains while being fun. With intentional brain-building activities during the summer break, we can give our children the tools they need to thrive in school and life. Here are some fun and educational activities to engage your child in brain-building experiences:
- Reading aloud: share stories and watch their imagination soar
- Singing songs: encourage language development through music and rhythm
- Playing games: strengthen problem-solving skills with puzzles and memory games
- Exploring nature: nurture curiosity by discovering the world around them
I also want to congratulate the recent Voluntary Prekindergarten graduates in Hillsborough County. Your success is a testament to the power of early learning and the dedication of parents, teachers, and the entire community in supporting your educational journey. Keep up the excellent work!
Meet the Team
Play, Learn, and Grow Together: ELCHC’s Community Events
Day of Play: Nature in the Park
On April 15, 2023, we held our 3rd Day of Play event at Jackson Springs Community Rec Center in Town 'n Country. With 148 attendees and over 20 vendors, it was a day filled with joy and exploration. Families had the opportunity to enjoy a nature book trail and engage in activities such as making T-shirts and rainmakers, as well as picking out books to take home. The event emphasized the importance of play and parent engagement in early childhood development. On June 10, 2023, we hosted our 4th and final Day of Play for the fiscal year at Julian B Lane Park, which attracted over 350 attendees! Families were treated to various activities, including a splash pad and engaging activities from more than 15 vendors.
On My Way to Kindergarten: Five 4 Five
On June 3, 2023, we hosted our annual On My Way to Kindergarten Backpack event, where we provided over 150 backpacks to children entering kindergarten. The event focused on five key areas: literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, social studies, and gross motor skills. Children had a great time with face painting, dancing at Club Kindergarten with Ready Freddy, and engaging in activities that encouraged creativity and sensory exploration.
Teacher's Night Out at the Museum
On May 12, 2023, Teacher's Night Out was held as a special evening for providers in the community. Over 250 providers attended the event at the Glazer Children's Museum, wearing adventurous outfits as they explored the museum's interactive activities. The night was filled with karaoke, raffles, games, giveaways, and valuable networking opportunities. The aim of Teacher's Night Out was to energize providers and equip them with resources and connections for the upcoming year, fostering a sense of community and support among them.
Support Our Mission
Create a BRIGHTER future for Hillsborough County by investing in early learning!
How you can support early learning in the workplace:
Champion early learning within your organization and support family-friendly policies.
Participate in the School Readiness match program for quality childcare.
Encourage staff to enroll qualifying children in Florida Voluntary Prekindergarten.
Provide the “Find Child Care” link for employees to browse suitable childcare options.
Refer employees to our Financial Assistance Page if they need help with childcare costs.
Contact communityrelations@elchc.org for an HR packet and childcare resources.
Your contribution can strengthen your workforce and internal culture by improving employees’ ability to work and earn more, reducing missed workdays, and increasing productivity. Employees’ children enrolled in School Readiness will have equal access to and participate in a safe, high-quality early learning program. Investing in early childhood education is an investment in your business, the local economy, and our entire Hillsborough County.
