The end of June marks an exciting time for families with young children enrolled in FSA’s Child Development Centers! Our team held an end-of-the-year ceremony for the preschoolers who are moving onto the next step in their educational journey: kindergarten.
These ceremonies are a time for celebration and reflection. Each child is presented with an award as their parents and guardians proudly take in the moment. Many of the families shared how grateful they are for Family Service Association's child care services. The centers have helped them pursue their educational goals and continue working with confidence, knowing that their children are being nurtured and cared. The teachers are an important part of the children’s lives and a valuable resource for the family. They form close bonds with the family and it’s not uncommon for the children to visit our centers years later as teenagers and adults to thank their teachers for making their childhood special.
Our ceremonies highlighted key milestones and skills that the children gained during their time with us. The children learned how to interact with one another, follow directions, and resolve conflicts peacefully. They also learned how to tie their shoes, count, and build early literacy skills.
“Our dedicated team members provide more than childcare,” said FSA’s CEO, Dr. Cheryl-Marie Hansberger. "They nurture kindness, curiosity, and resiliency in our children and cultivate deep, trusting relationships with families. In many ways, our centers are resource hubs that support the whole needs of family, including childcare, housing, healthcare, and food security.”
Research shows that children who participate in early education programs have better education, earnings, and health outcomes as compared to those who do not. A report by The Heckman Foundation explored the influence of early childhood services in the lives of both children and their families, especially for economically disadvantaged families. Not only did the study find that children were more prepared for school by participating in quality early education programs, but families also experienced significant economic and health benefits.
The role that early education providers play in impacting health outcomes for families in vulnerable communities cannot be overstated. Family Service Association is committed to reducing health disparities and creating more equitable communities throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. As seen during the graduation ceremonies this month, our investment in early childhood education is an investment in the future for young children and their families.
We are grateful to all of our donors, stakeholders, and supporters who make it possible for us provide high-quality childcare services. Thank you for helping us break intergenerational cycles of poverty and improve individual, family, and community health. And, a special thanks to Family Service Association’s valued funder and partner: First 5 Riverside County. Their ongoing support has been critical in making early education and child care services accessible for thousands of families in the region.
