Write a commentOswego County Opportunities (OCO) Head Start program invites parents and children, birth to second grade, throughout Oswego County to attend a Community Family Literacy Night.
Head Start’s Community Family Literacy Nights are filled with fun activities based on well-known children’s books. The theme for the current literacy nights is based on the well-known Pete The Cat books. Inspired by the works of acclaimed illustrator James Dean, and featuring text and lyrics by Eric Litwin, Pete The Cat books follow the many adventures of Pete the Cat.
Beth Kazel, director of OCO Education Services said that the uniqueness of the Pete The Cat books make them a real treat for the children. “The Pete The Cat series is much more than just books. Many have the added dimension of music and lyrics. While they are interesting and fun to read the interaction encouraged by the musical aspect adds a lot more to the experience.
According to Dean the appeal of the Pete The Cat books lies in the fact that these books are written with the knowledge that all children learn differently. The author and illustrator blend traditional reading methods such as phonics and sight words with multisensory techniques such as music and movement that helps every child learn to read and love books.
Head Start’s Community Family Literacy Nights will include a number of art, musical and self-guided activities for children birth to 2nd grade. Additionally all families will receive the new Pete The Cat book (while supplies last) and each child will enjoy a Pete The Cat snack.
The schedule for OCO Head Start’s Family Literacy Nights is as follows:
Discovery Learning Center (80 County Rte. 59, Phoenix) – April 14th, 6:00-7:30
Williamstown Center (2910A County Rte. 17 North, Bldg. A) – April 14th 5:30 – 7:00
Oswego Center (Fort Ontario, Building 31, 45 Schuyler Street) – April 14th 5:30 – 7:00
Fulton (All Saints Church, 153 South First Street) – April 14th 5:30 – 7:00
Cleveland, (48-B State Route 49) – April 14th 5:30 -7:00
Fairgrieve Elementary School (716 Academy St., Fulton - Cafeteria and Classroom) – April 14th 5:30 -7:00
Head Start, which is available for children age 3 and 4, operates throughout the school year and provides children with comprehensive education, health, and nutrition services. With a goal of school readiness Head Start’s teachers and staff combine hands-on learning, active play, and nutritious meals and snacks to create a well-rounded learning experience. Head Start provides quality programming for children and their parents while creating an enjoyable atmosphere that’s conducive to learning. Head Start teachers utilize a research based curriculum that makes learning fun, and there is ample time for physical and recreational activities.
“I invite families with young children, birth to second grade, throughout Oswego County to attend one of our Community Family Literacy Nights for a fun evening of reading and activities and to learn more about Head Start and the many benefits it has to offer,” added Kazel.
Provided at no cost to families, Head Start is available to families with incomes at or below federally set guidelines and accepts applications for enrollment year round. Those interested in learning more about Head Start, or applying for enrollment, may call 315-598-4711, toll free at 1-800-359-1171, or visit www.oco.org.
Did you know...OCO has been fighting poverty in its many forms since 1966! After 50 years, our commitment remains strong: inspiring partnerships and providing services that empower people, support communities, and change lives. For more information, visit OCO's website at www.oco.org.
