By Claude Gilmore
Kennedy Heights Community Center

Tucked away in the basement of the Kennedy Heights Community Center, the Early Childhood Program (ECP) buzzes with activity from 9 am‒12 pm, Monday‒Friday. Natural sunlight pours in from the south-facing windows as the children practice writing their names before joining their classmates for morning meeting time. Each day begins with a welcoming song, class “jobs,” the two letters of the week, theme-related songs and art projects.

Through a predictable routine, teachers focus on the children’s social and emotional development. From this important base, early literacy, math and science blocks

scaffold upward, tailored for each child.

Each day Early Childhood Assistant Colleen Sonderberg brings a positive attitude as well as a specialty in phonics and art. “The children are the best part of the job. It’s great getting to know the children and families in the neighborhood,” she said.

Kate Remington, longtime volunteer and former teacher, said “I just love being here. It has been wonderful seeing the siblings of previous ECP children come through the classroom.”

Early Childhood Lead Nicole Cummings said, “I’ve really enjoyed seeing familiar faces from the neighborhood and meeting the siblings of previous ECP attendees. I love seeing the children’s smiles each day.” She added, “We

work very hard to prepare the children for kindergarten. There is a ‘hidden curriculum’ in each activity we provide.”

In addition to the regular teachers, special guests from the Book Worm readers, Lakeview Librarian Madeline Kain and Goodman Nutrition Education Guide Kellie Schweich complement the program activities.

This summer we look forward to our Monday mornings at Troy Gardens in addition to caring for our own playground gardens.