CHAMBERSBURG – The Franklin County Commissioners have proclaimed April 2023 to be Month of the Young Child. In doing so, the commissioners join First Start Partnerships for Children and Families, Inc. and other area organizations in drawing attention to the essential role early educators play in the healthy development of America’s youth.
The first years of a child’s life are critical to laying the foundation for all future learning. A child’s cognitive, physical, social, emotional and language development are dependent on positive interactions with adults and peers as well as on their environment. When children participate in high-quality early education, taxpayers save money, working families become more economically secure, and children are prepared to succeed in school, earn higher wages and ultimately live healthier lives.
High-quality early childhood education depends on skilled, educated and consistent early childhood educators who ensure that children have the early experiences they need for a strong foundation. At the same time, early childhood educators need to receive family sustaining wages and have opportunities to acquire critical skills, knowledge and competencies through affordable means.
“Franklin County’s children are our future, and it is up to all of us to ensure they receive the best possible start in life that will allow them to become happy, healthy, educated and engaged members of our community,” said Franklin County Commissioner Dave Keller.
By recognizing April as Month of the Young Child, the Franklin County Commissioners are urging all residents to support efforts that increase children’s and families’ access to high-quality early childhood education and to support those working in the early care and education profession.
