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The National Week of the Young Child is being observed April 13th-19th with the theme “Bring Communities Together for Children--Children Bring Communities Together”. In this spirit, let us recognize that providing children with opportunities to thrive is a community responsibility, and recommit to ensuring that each and every child experiences an environment conducive to early learning --at home, at child care, at school, and in the community. This e-news is dedicated to the children of the First Coast and features two United Way of Northeast Florida efforts aimed at helping our young children reach their full potential – Success By 6 and Born Learning. >> Get more info on Success By 6 and Born Learning Today we know more than ever before about the importance of a child's earliest years in shaping their learning and development. Powerful research on brain development shows that children are literally born learning. Every experience they have, both positive and negative, affects the development of their brains physically and physiologically. Thus, a parent is a child’s first, and most important, teacher. The best way to get kids ready for school is to make sure they are nurtured and given high quality care from Day One-- whether it's at home, with friends or neighbors, or at a child care center. Studies show that high quality early interactions increase a child's capacity to learn. A child growing up in poverty who has experienced high-quality early education is 40 percent less likely to require special education or to be held back a grade and twice as likely to go to college. A $1 investment in quality early learning sees a $17 return, demonstrating that boosting school readiness is an effective way to improve academic outcomes in the K - 12 system and to prevent costly societal problems such as unemployment and crime. Yet, research shows that our children are not entering kindergarten ready to succeed. More than one third of First Coast children who enter kindergarten need some type of intervention or support. Unfortunately, too many hardworking families on the First Coast cannot afford high quality early learning care for their preschoolers. United Way of Northeast Florida developed the Success By 6 initiative to address this community issue and to increase our children's readiness for kindergarten and success in life. In addition to Success By 6, United Way implements a public engagement campaign, Born Learning, to provide parents and other caregivers with easy-to-use tools and resources to increase their child’s development. Children who thrive in their first five years are poised to be strong lifelong learners, earners and engaged citizens. Equipping a child today for a successful tomorrow ensures a stronger community for us all. United Way of Northeast Florida works in partnership with volunteers, community organizations, and leaders to tackle critical issues facing children, youth, and families. 
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