Residents of the Virgin Islands are encouraged to participate in a variety of children-friendly events in support of Early Childhood Awareness Month in May.

             “Education through Culture: a Virgin Islands Experience,” is the theme for this year’s observance which will emphasise the importance of early childhood education, while also promoting the virtues of Virgin Islands’ culture.

            Education Officer for Early Childhood, Mrs. Jerelyn Callwood, said that the first few years of learning are the most important for a child’s future development.

            Mrs. Callwood said, “Studies show that 90 percent of a child’s brain is developed before the age of five. Considering that, it is essential we focus on the emotional, social and physical development of the Territory’s young children in an effort to ensure their future wellbeing.”

Activities for Early Childhood Awareness Month will commence with an open house on Friday, May 1, at the Student Services Centre on the third floor of the Ward’s Building from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The open house will provide interested persons with the opportunity to learn about the role of the Early Childhood Unit, and Government’s new policies for early childhood education.

In addition, a church service will be held on Sunday, May 3 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sanctuary of Hope Church on Virgin Gorda, followed by an Early Childhood Appreciation Day on Friday, May 8.

 Festivities continue on May 15 with the Kindergarten Games to be held on the A.O. Shirley Grounds starting at 9:30 a.m. The admission price for adults is $3.00 and $1.00 for children.

Following the games, the activities will move to the Enid Scatliffe Pre-Primary school grounds for the pre-primary soccer competition at 2:00 p.m.

On May 25, a Family Fun Day will be held at 10:00 a.m. on the grounds of the Enid Scatliffe Pre-Primary School. This event will include a variety of games and activities for children and adults of all ages.

A series of parenting conferences are also slated for the last week of May. The first meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 26 at the Abraham Leonard Community Centre in West End at 6:00 p.m.

Another meeting will be held in Road Town on Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00 p.m. at a location to be determined, and the final session will be held in East End at the East End/Long Look Community Centre on Thursday May 28, at 6:00 p.m.