When we talk about the importance of early childhood we often think in terms of social determinants of health that can predict with some accuracy the path a child’s development and future success will take.
Children who have abundant food, adequate shelter and family with financial security, have social determinants that are strong and consistent. They often have access to quality childcare and education, premium healthcare and are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities.
For low to moderate income families, and often those living in ALICE(Asset limited, income constrained, employed) households, having access to food, shelter, a quality childcare and preschool along with basics such as healthcare, can mean the difference in not only academic success but overall lifetime health.
The development and educational opportunities that children have
access to in their early years have a lasting impact on their health as
adults according to the Office of Disease Prevention.
Our aim at Giraffe Laugh partners with the belief that every child is worthy of a wonderful life regardless of their economic circumstances. Every family deserves factors that strengthen their lives in our community. Every community deserves happy, healthy and thriving families. With that in mind, our goal is to continue to expand opportunities for children.
We are opening our newest program in Kuna and are thrilled with the excitement from children and parents who are coming off our waiting list of 600. We will serve children birth through five while the Boys and Girls Club will care for children K-12th grade. In Idaho, only half of all children entering school are prepared. Our aim is to move that dial and ensure that children are more than prepared for their future academic careers.
Without the support of many important partners this would not be possible. It is our joy to be able to launch this opportunity for Kuna families and children, but also to have an even bigger impact on outcomes for children as they enter kindergarten next year and the years after. Additionally, we are building a new center at Franklin and Orchard!
We appreciate all of you that made this a reality and for the realities you create for all of our children in all of our programs. If you would like to get involved in helping us double our impact, please contact Lori or Cassandra! Some ways to participate are donating, volunteering, golfing in our Little Swings Fore Big Dreams golf tournament, attend our Luncheon on November 5th and spread the word! Thank you.