We are thrilled to formally introduce our newest creation, Pick-a-Park, at a press conference we're holding in Bethpage Park at 10:30 a.m. on June 30. Please join us! Pick-a-Park will be the most comprehensive searchable online inventory available for the nearly 700 parks across Long Island. The database will feature detailed descriptions and photographs of each park and will be searchable by zip code and specific family-friendly facilities such as bathrooms. Our goal is to encourage families and programs to bring children outdoors! -- Dana Friedman, president, The Early Years Institute |
| Hot links: Criminals, conferences and grants |
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Here are some recent articles of interest to all of us concerned about children:
- The First Five Year Fund has produced a wonderful video describing its plan for early learning programs in the U.S.
- A recently-published study in Science says that children in preschool are less likely to become criminals later in life, based on the work of EYI Advisory Committee member Meredith Wiley of Fight Crime, Invest in Kids.
- "Strong Roots Last a Lifetime" is the title of the June 22 conference on parent education training being held by the New York State Parenting Education Partnership.
- President Obama announced the "Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge" a $500 million grants competition.
- Dana Friedman has recently blogged about the Chinese post-partum custom of zuo yuezi, plus the debate over children's exposure to media.
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| Screen-free families enjoy prizes |
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 Families received prizes for participating in Screen-Free Week April 18-24. Winners were randomly selected from online registrants. Enjoying a Long Island Ducks game were (photo left, l. to r.) Zachary Chris, Devin, and Melanie Rizopoulos of Coram; and (photo, right) Karen Horowitz (r.) of JCC presented discount coupons for children's parties at Pump It Up in Planview to Sima Matthes, who has a 6 year-old son, Teddy.
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| Colorful play posters available through EYI |
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 EYI and Family Place Libraries have created a beautiful set of posters designed to describe how play stimulates young children's growing brains, academic and social skills, and problem-solving abilities. These unique and eye-catching posters may be purchased from EYI as a set including ten 11" x 13" posters plus one 24" x 36" poster for $100 (plus $20 for shipping). Family Place libraries are entitled to a discount. Click here for more details and to view and to order the posters.
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