Family engagement is a crucial element in a child’s development, and organizations in Northern Kentucky like NaviGo, Learning Grove, and Brighton Center are working to ensure that families are actively involved in their child’s learning journey. These programs aim to create a partnership among families, educators, and community partners to promote children’s learning and development from birth through college and career.
Brighton Center’s Every Child Succeeds program, as highlighted by parent Ashley Barnes, focuses on providing support to families from before birth until the child is 2 years old. The program emphasizes building attachment between parent and child through activities that promote physical, brain, language, and social-emotional development. Barnes, a parent who has utilized the program for her children, emphasizes the importance of being involved in her children’s lives despite facing financial hardships and balancing multiple jobs.
In addition to early childhood programs, Brighton Center also offers childcare services through Bright Days Child Development Center and Early Scholars Child Development Center. These centers serve children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, with a focus on building trusting relationships between parents, educators, and children to enhance learning outcomes. Family engagement is seen as a key factor in children’s success in school and beyond.
Learning Grove, another organization in Northern Kentucky, provides family outreach programs to support families in need. Deanna Lane, vice president of family and community services, emphasizes the importance of wrapping services around families to ensure their well-being and self-sufficiency. The organization works with a diverse population, including Hispanic families and immigrants, offering resources and support tailored to their specific needs.
Family engagement extends beyond early learning and includes college and career readiness. NaviGo, in partnership with schools and businesses, helps students prepare for post-secondary education and career pathways. Kathy Burkhardt, executive director of NaviGo, highlights the importance of engaging families in their child’s educational journey from prenatal to graduation and beyond. By involving families in decision-making and providing opportunities for engagement, organizations can support children in developing essential skills for success in school and the workforce.
Overall, family engagement plays a vital role in supporting children’s development and academic success. By fostering partnerships between families, educators, and community organizations, children can receive the necessary support and resources to thrive from early childhood through college and career readiness. Through programs like Every Child Succeeds, HIPPY, and family outreach initiatives, organizations in Northern Kentucky are working to empower families and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.