This spring, we reflect upon the one year anniversary of the moment in 2020 when our world upended. So much was forced to change, creating positives as well as silver linings. We have all had to adapt to keep up.

We remember that springtime always brings new growth to the cycle of our lives, regardless of what form it comes in. In that spirit, we look forward to brighter days ahead, greater protection provided by the COVID-19 vaccine, and opportunities to change and grow in all facets.

A new literacy-focused initiative has been an opportunity to strengthen the support network for young children and increase its reach. WCSS's System Improvement & Public Engagement (SIPE) team has partnered with Reach Out and Read Carolinas (ROR) on a pandemic-responsive strategy to share resource information with medical providers serving greatest needs families.

Adapted from the Kid Connect capacity building workshop framework, the Kid Connect Lunch & Learn series for pediatric medical providers is designed to build knowledge of early childhood programs, resources, and referral hubs. The content is tailored based on clinics’ geographic location and resource priorities. The Kid Connect Lunch & Learns began in December, and all eight WCSS ROR sites will receive a session by the end of June. In addition, non-ROR sites have also requested this series for their staff. 

If you are interested in learning more or want to request a Kid Connect Lunch & Learn for your practice, please click here.

Growth can occur by looking internally, as well as externally. Within WCSS, several departments have collaborated to develop a video series that combines our strengths and provides helpful, easy-to-use information for families with young children.

The WCSS Read-Along series involves reading aloud a book from Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and then demonstrating a health-related activity to complement it. These activities range from gardening to cooking to other healthy activities. The series is a joint effort of the Early Literacy, Healthy Initiatives, Outreach, and Communications departments.

Click here to view the first two videos.

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We are lucky to be in community with you, the many partners, funders, and supporters who share this vision of a bright future for Wake's children and who are eager to make that future a reality. I know that, together, we will continue to embrace change and find ways to grow. Please contact me directly at gheaden@wakesmartstart.org should you wish to connect.

Gayle E. Headen

Executive Director

 

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