Jefferson County Parks and Recreation is actively seeking students for its Play and Learn preschool program and Toddler Learning Time.
These programs offer families an excellent opportunity for their children to socialize and learn. Children engage with instructors to learn about colors, sounds, and other basic concepts through play and crafts.
Child care professionals in the community acknowledge a significant need for more child care to support families. Despite this need, enrollment for the Play and Learn program and Toddler Learning Time remains low. David Kling, deputy director of Jefferson County Parks and Recreation, suggests the pandemic might be a factor. Parents may be hesitant to expose their young children to group settings. Additionally, parents might be considering other options for their children.
“I think part of the reason is the universal pre-K system,” Kling said. “Some parents are waiting and weighing their options. They are trying to find what’s best for their kid, as they should do. We’re here to give them another option if they choose to join.”
The Parks and Recreation team needs to enroll eight students across three classes by Friday or consider other options. Currently, the Tuesday and Thursday classes are full, but there are openings for the Monday, Wednesday, and Friday programs.
Starting at 9 a.m., children can attend from September to May for several hours of fun. Toddler Learning Time, for ages 2-3, runs from 9-10:30 a.m. The Play and Learn program, for ages 4-5, operates from 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m.
Kling emphasizes that the instructors play a key role in the program’s success.
“The instructors do a great job preparing activities for the kids,” Kling said. “They are all great and work hard to provide the best care for the kids. Another interesting aspect about the program is simply the nature of being in a community center. Kids are coming into a park building, where there are a lot of other things going on. It’s a really unique setup.”
Jefferson County Parks and Recreation is committed to providing a nurturing and educational environment for young children. Families interested in enrolling their children can contact the department for more information.