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FOR PARENTS
First 5 Monterey County supports a number of programs to benefit your young child and you. For a more information on currently funded grantees, click here.
National Public Radio Features Series on the Importance of Play
National Public Radio (NPR) recently aired two segments focused on the importance of play in the development of young children. Click on one of the topics below to be directed to the NPR website where you can listen to and read about the segments.
Creative Play Makes for Kids in Control
Old Fashioned Play Builds Serious Skills
Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Did you know that the average 4- to 5- year-old consumes nearly 65 pounds of sugar every year? This alarming statistic can seem frightening. But building healthy eating habits and encouraging physical activity when children are young can help change this statistic. Parents are their child’s first and most important teacher. Children learn early eating habits by modeling their parent’s choices. Young children who eat nutritious meals have better attention spans and more energy. Ultimately, children learn better because they can engage in active play and in reading and talking activities with their parents and caregivers. Good nutrition can also support learning opportunities for young children. Children can learn colors by looking at different fruits and vegetables. Preschoolers have fun assisting with grocery shopping and preparing meals. Growing fruits and vegetables can be fun exposure to science. And, family mealtimes at home help teach children valuable social skills. Childhood doesn’t last forever but the experience lasts a lifetime. These simple, every day activities help young children build secure relationships with their parents at a critical time of brain development. And, the activities promote healthy eating habits in young children that can last into adulthood. Children don’t come with instructions but it’s okay for parents to ask for help! Below are some links to information and tips on healthy eating and physical activity for young children. Kids and Food: 10 Tips for Parents Ideas to help parents start building healthy eating and physical activity habits for toddlers and preschoolers. From the Kid’s Health website. How to Help Your Child have a Healthy Weight Tips on healthy eating and physical activity for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. From the First 5 Santa Clara website. On the Move: The Power of Movement in Your Child’s First Three Years Talks about the importance of physical activity for young children. From the Zero to Three website. Cake, candy and soda aren’t necessary for a great party. These ideas offer healthful alternatives as well as recipes. From the California Department of Health website. Some healthy fundraising alternatives to candy and bake sales for preschools and beyond. From the California Department of Health website. Although designed for fourth and fifth graders, tips could be modified for younger children in the preschool setting. From the California Department of Health website.
Preparing Your Child For School
First 5 California - please click here to view the Ready to Learn brochure. School Readiness - please click here for more information on the School Readiness Initiative. Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) - please click here to go to MCOE's website page on school readiness.
Read to your child. It is good for children of all ages, even babies, when you read to them and or tell stories about your family. Use pictures and songs. Asking questions about the story will let children be a part of the fun. Talk with your child. Your voice is safe and comforting. Talk about nature and the world around you. While exploring the wonders of flowers, your child can also learn about colors and counting. Play with your child. Imagination is the beginning of your child’s learning. A blanket, favorite toy and you are all that’s needed for fun and learning. Make the First 5 years count! Get Involved! If you are a parent or community member interested in how you can get involved to help shape the future for young children. To access helpful information, click the links below:
Read, Talk and Play With Your Child Every Day!
Simple, every day activities with you, help your child to grow and be ready to learn in school.