October 30, 2020 School’s Out! Challenges and Solutions for School-Age Programs Are you interested in exploring common challenges and solutions for school-age programs? Join presenters Tracy Galuski, Ph.D., Arlene Rider, Ph.D., and Nadia J. Jones, Ed.D. on November 18 for “School’s Out! Challenges and Solutions for School-Age Programs: Meaningful Activities.” About Professionals who work with school-age children in out-of-school environments often struggle with ways to keep the children engaged in programs that run before and after the structured school day. Children have varied needs, and program staff are often dealing with challenges such as a restrictive environment, mixed groupings, and varied schedules. Within the context of child development, this webinar offers a child-centered approach to developing activities that engage and enhance the program. Participants will explore a number of common challenges along with some possible solutions that can be adapted and applied in their work. Time for questions will be provided. Featured Topics This webinar will: review typical learning centers in school-age programs, explore developmental stages and how child development informs practice, and discuss challenges and solutions related to the environment and activities. Registration This webinar is best suited for practioneres in before- and after-school programs in a variety of settings. To register, visit the EdWeb website.
May 12, 2020 Working with Diverse Families: Supporting Dual Language Learners In this online course, participants will engage in an interactive session to build and strengthen knowledge working with diverse children ages birth to five and families. In order to support early childhood practitioners serving this population, this session will focus on current research, strategies when teaching dual language learners, and techniques to engage families. Limited spaces are available. All registrations must be submitted by May 26 at 5 p.m. Course Information Timeline: May 28 – June 18, 2020 Instructor: Mimi Loughead CKC: K3.1 C2 Keystone STARS Alignment: SQ. 3.4.3 CDA Subject Area: Building Productive Relationships with Families. Three PQAS and Act 48 hours available. Registration To register, please visit the event registration page. More Information For more information, contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.
May 7, 2020 Preparation for Reopening SAC During COVID-19 Certified School Age Care (SAC) providers are invited to join the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) on May 7 for an online conversation with OCDEL Deputy Secretary, Tracy Campanini, to hear important information about preparing for reopening during COVID-19. Registration To join the conversation, visit this Zoom link and insert the password: 022124. Individuals can also join via phone by calling 312.626.6799 and inserting the Meeting ID: 957 4116 2918. Pre-registration is not required. Share this flyer with your network.
July 16, 2019 Pittsburgh Children Receive First Round of Free Books In July 2019, Pittsburgh preschoolers received their first round of free books from the City of Pittsburgh’s partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. About The free book program – in conjunction with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the Benter Foundation, and the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania – mails all eligible children an age-appropriate book every month up until their fifth birthday. In February, legislation was introduced to Pittsburgh City Council to accept $250,000 from the Benter Foundation to establish the Pittsburgh program. In early July, the first shipment of books was sent out to 1,402 children who were enrolled in the program at the beginning of June. Another 400 children have been added to the program since then and will receive their first books in coming weeks. All children receive “The Little Engine That Could” as their first book, as it is Dolly Parton’s favorite. Eligibility To be eligible for the program, preschoolers must: Be a resident of the City of Pittsburgh Have a parent or guardian fill out an official registration form Notify the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania of any address changes Sign Up To sign up for this program, visit the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library website. More Information For instructions, frequently asked questions, and more, visit the City of Pittsburgh’s website. *Information provided by the City of Pittsburgh
July 1, 2019 Darrelle Revis Hunger & Health Fun Fest Families with children in grades 1 through 8 are invited to join Darrelle Revis for the 2nd Annual Hunger & Health Fun Fest! About Hosted at the UMPC Rooney Sports Complex, the Hunger & Health Fun Fest is an opportunity to interact with Darrelle and friends as they bring awareness to the hunger crisis in the United States of America. All participants in grades 1st through 8th must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone. Activities The event will feature on-site activities, including: a motivation station, fitness workshop, meal and beverage prep, 7 on 7 football, lunch, games, and prizes, and more! Register To register for this free event, visit the event website. Share this flyer with your network.
May 1, 2019 STEM All Hands on Tech: Robot Playground Join the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Carrick branch for a day of experimentation, play, and learning by exploring interactive technology and a variety of robots. STEM All Hands On Tech programs support learning and literacy by introducing children to technology. This event is intended for children in grades pre-k to 5. Questions For questions, contact Jon Antoszewski at 412.381.6543 or antoszewskijo@carnegielibrary.org. This location is handicap accessible. See the event page.
February 11, 2019 Raising Readers Together Club The Raising Readers Together Club runs weekly and explores the importance of acceptance, equality, and tolerance through reading. Wednesday sessions are suitable for children age six and older. For children age five and younger, see our Thursday sessions at the Homewood Early Learning Hub. Winter 2019 Books: Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier | February 6 – 27 The Watsons Go To Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis | March 6 – 27 Raising Readers provides free: books discussion food songs storytelling resources Questions For questions or more information, contact Cynthia Battle at 412.421.3889 or cynthia@tryingtogether.org. Share this flyer with your network.
December 6, 2018 100,000 Books Campaign: Free Book Fair United Way’s 100,000 Books initiative is giving away new and gently used books to support your students’ developing reading skills. A variety of books are available for various age groups, although this year’s selection appears to have more in the pre-k to 3rd-grade range. To qualify, your program must use a mentor – reader model. This event is first come – first serve, so show up early. Bringing boxes is recommended. Register here. What is 100,000 Books? 100,000 Books builds on research that demonstrates the importance of connecting a caring adult or older student with a child. This mentor model has been shown to have a significant impact on the life of a child and will be the primary model that 100,000 Books uses to support reading skills development. Mentors (teachers, librarians, youth workers, caring adults, older students…) will reinforce reading skills through one time and on-going read-along opportunities that will help kids to build this critical love of reading. Questions If you have any questions, please contact Tanya Baronti at tanya.baronti@unitedwayswpa.org or Joe Welsh at joe.welsh@unitedwayswpa.org.
