February 2007

Love: the key to kids’ success

As Valentine’s Day approaches, remember that what kids want and need most—love and attention—are free!  

What United Way of King County wants everyone to know is that nurturing relationships are essential for the developing mind. Research in brain development and school readiness suggests that children need warm, loving relationships with responsive adults in order to thrive.  

"Everything a baby or young child learns is in the context of relationships,” says Yaffa Maritz, United Way donor, volunteer, and founder of Listening Mothers, a program supported by United Way to help parents and children develop strong, healthy relationships. “Reflective parenting provides the foundation for their future well-being.”  

Want to know more about raising emotionally, intellectually and socially competent children? Read the following: 

• Connect with your kids today.

• 10 fun activities to share with a child

• Request free parenting materials, supplied by United Way of King County, by calling 1.888.986.KIDS, a family resource line operated by Parent Trust for Washington Children.

• Read what the experts say about nurturing children.

• Read what the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) says about nurturing relationships in the child care setting.

Be a Volunteer Reader! 

United Way of King County is currently recruiting Volunteer Readers to read to kids—one-on-one and in small groups—on a regular basis in child care settings throughout King County. Learn more about our newest volunteer program, and sign up to help.  

Reading aloud with kids accomplishes much more than boosting their language and literacy skills. It also gives them your undivided attention and an opportunity to ask questions and explore ideas, which boosts their self-esteem. Learn more about the benefits of reading with kids on our Web site.  

Mark your calendars 

February is Black History Month. Visit our Web site to find out what you can do with your child to celebrate. Notable dates this month include: 

• Election Day – Today! Don't forget to vote.

• National African American Parent Involvement Day – Feb. 12

• Valentine’s Day – Feb. 14

• Chinese New Year – Feb. 17 (the day it’s being celebrated in Seattle)

• President’s Day – Feb. 19

Together we have the ability to change our community
for the better in fundamental, lasting ways.

For more information on why United Way of King County cares so much about kids and what we're doing to promote early learning in our community, visit our web site. If you have specific questions or needs pertaining to early learning, please contact earlylearning@uwkc.org

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