Early Learning Program Benefits Children and Parents
CCS Early Learning is a community-based, nonprofit organization that
has been delivering high quality early child development programs in
Southcentral Alaska since 1971. The program initially served children
in Chugiak/Eagle River, later expanding to the Mat-Su Valley. Using the
Head Start model of early childhood education, CCS strives to provide
young children and their families with a superior learning environment
that is staffed by quality early childhood educators. Today, CCS Head
Start program serves 240 children ages 3 - 5 years in Chugiak, Meadow
Lakes, Wasilla and Palmer. The program is free to children from
families who meet low-income criteria, to foster children, and to
children with a diagnosed special need.
"We offer a comprehensive program that addresses the children, as well
as their parents," says Mark Lackey, CCS Early Learning's executive
director. "Roughly two-thirds of our time and financial resources are
spent on the child. The remaining one-third is spent working with
parents—helping them establish family goals, identify strengths and
necessary services and supports."
Through family partnerships, parents have the opportunity to enhance
their parenting skills, knowledge and understanding of the
developmental needs of their children, to participate in medical,
dental, nutrition, and mental health education programs, and to access
family literacy services.
"The parent investment is critical," says Lackey. "We may see the child
for one or two years, whereas the parents are there for the
long-haul—at least another 15 years."
Head Start's primary goals are social competence and school readiness.
The curriculum and activities cover eight key areas: language
development, literacy, mathematics, science, creative arts, social and
emotional development, approaches to learning, and physical health and
development. Program hours are from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Monday through
Friday, and for the most part, holidays and breaks mirror the local
school district's calendar.
Parents are encouraged to become involved in all aspects of Head Start
program. They can observe their children in the classroom and help plan
their learning experiences. Staff and parents, together with an on-site
mental health consultant, identify and design interventions that
promote children's mental wellness, provide assistance for children
with atypical behaviors, and support parents' participation in any
interventions.
For more on CCS Early Learning, visit www.ccsalaska.org or call (907) 745-4040.
