On Monday, September 30, YWCA Clinton will kick off its first event for the new “Strong Brain, Whole Child” program. This initiative aims to provide a two-generational preschool experience, focusing on holistic education for both children and their caregivers.
The program was established with support from a grant provided by Better Health Foundations. Amanda Snyder, the Director of Children’s Programming, noted that the program addresses community disparities in access to nutrition, as well as physical and mental healthcare.
“This program responds to the needs of children in our community who require additional support and may fall through the cracks,” Snyder explained. “At three years old, there are often limited resources available until they start school.”
The pilot program will serve approximately 40 three-year-olds and their guardians each year. It will offer a curriculum tailored to the needs of enrolled families, emphasizing health, safety, and trauma-informed care.
“This program represents the future of education,” said Marketing Director Jen Bruce in a press release. “Strong Brain, Whole Child takes a comprehensive approach to ensure our children and families thrive. It will benefit our community for years to come.”
YWCA Clinton is partnering with local services to bring various professionals into the classrooms, fostering a community-centered approach to education.
“Research shows that the more connections people have in their early years, the better they fare as they grow older,” Snyder said. “This program aims to connect parents with resources that can assist them, which is why it focuses on both children and their families.”
Parents enrolled in the program will be invited to a monthly “Whole Family” night, featuring wellness activities, classes, and group meals. Families will also receive a free fitness membership at YWCA.
To monitor the students’ progress, the program will use the National Institute for Children’s Health Quality Vanderbilt Assessment Scale. Snyder emphasized that this will help ensure each child’s needs are proactively met.
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