We hope you will take advantage of this beautiful weather to explore the outdoor spaces nearby or attend one of the many family events happening over the next month. The ECCS is also hosting two special events in May.
Autism Acceptance/Awareness Month is a time to celebrate the unique qualities of people with autism and promote acceptance and inclusion. As parents, we can learn more about autism, support our children's needs, and promote understanding and kindness toward all individuals. Let us celebrate differences and create a more compassionate world for everyone.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can affect a child's behavior, social, and communication skills. According to the CDC, about 1 in 31 U.S. children (3.2%) are diagnosed on the autism spectrum by the time they are 8 years old, and is over 3 times more common among boys than among girls. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children be screened for autism spectrum disorder at their 18- and 24-month checkups.
ASD is a broad and diverse condition that every individual experiences differently. The DSM-5 uses three levels to describe support needs.
You can keep track of your 0-5 year-old's development with the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (and learn through play with fun activities) with the free Sparkler App. If you are concerned about the development, behavior, or mental health of your child go to the ECCS's development concerns page.
Learn more about Autism and available resources:
Connecticut Children's - Autism
The spring weather has been beautiful, which means it’s been a great time to get out to ride bikes and scooters! Don’t forget that CT state law says children under 16 years old must wear a helmet when riding: bicycles, scooters, skateboards, roller skates and inline skates. While the law does not require a helmet for an adult, we encourage them to protect your brain and to set a good example.
For more about CT Bicycle Safety and Helmet Laws, go to the ECCS Bike Safety Page.
The next ECCS Community Cafe, in partnership with LiveWell, will be on how healthy eating impacts brain development and finding foods your child will eat. This will be held on Wednesday, May 7th and include dinner and childcare. Register here by May 4.
The annual "State of Early Childhood in Southington" breakfast presentation has been scheduled for Thursday, May 29th. Register here by May 23rd.
Both of these free events are funded by a grant from the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood as administered by the Connecticut Children’s Collective (CTCC).
We hope to see you at these community events. The ECCS will be exhibiting at all of them.
- Family Fun Day - May 3, 10 am to 3 pm (Rain date is May 10) at Drive-In. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
- Touch a Truck - May 17, 10 am to 2 pm (Rain date is May 18) at Drive-In
- WISE Community Fair - May 18, 1 pm to 4 pm (Rain date is May 25) at First Congregational Church downtown
- Southington Land Trust Nature Festival - May 31, 11 am to 3 pm at Drive-In
- Southington Pride Family Festival - May 31, 2 to 4 pm, at Camp Sloper
- Southington Farmers Market kick-off and Community Day - June 20, 3 to 6 pm, at the Town Green
More details are at www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/events/ and on our social media channels.
Did you know that you can set up a small, recurring donation to the ECCS?
"Consistent monthly contributions, especially when automated, turn generosity into a habit and create lasting impact without the need for constant reminders." - Brian Williams, ECCS Board Member
1) Follow us on your favorite social media platforms and then like, comment, or share so your friends see our posts too!
2) Forward this email to a friend or colleague.
3) Volunteer your time as a board member or advocate.
4) Help with one-time or periodic donations.
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Our mailing address:
Early Childhood Collaborative of Southington
PO Box 210
Southington, CT 06489-0210