A bit of history about the Great Start Collaboratives of Michigan:

Each Great Start Collaborative has a partner organization called a Parent Coalition (GSPCs). There are 70 GSPCs across the state with 9,000 active members. These coalitions are composed of parent volunteers, are parent driven and have a flexible approach to building a diverse "parent voice" for the Great Start initiative. The parent members of the GSPCs serve as key advocates on the issues of early childhood in their community, their state and even nationally.  Did you know that just talking to your family, friends or neighbors regarding early childhood issues and/or services they have used, makes you an advocate for early childhood?

Why should I be a part of the Eaton Great Start Parent Coalition?
Here is what a few caretakers are saying:  

• If you value early childhood education!  Amy W.
• Because I want the best for my children within our community.  Karen F.
• I care what happens to my children as they develop through the early years.  Lisa C.
• Don’t you want your child to be prepared for Kindergarten?  Corey L.
• I became a dad basically overnight and well I can say they helped me out bigtime.  Mike P.
• I like to be a part of what is going on in Eaton County, such as the events we get to plan, that help prepare our children for Kindergarten.  R. S

• Tips for Reading with Young Children – compiled list includes favorites, suggested books from national book lists, preschool and school readiness suggestions, and some books that are just plain fun.
  
• Social-Emotional Health and School Readiness: A Guide for Parents with Children Birth to Age 5 – a publication by Early Childhood Investment Corporation.
  
• Health Issues – Immunization Schedule, Special Needs
  
• Developmental Information – Eaton County Early Childhood Benchmarks Document.
  
• Parent/Support Groups – organizations that offer support for mothers, fathers and relatives as parents.
  
• School Readiness – download MDE Parent Guides from MDE website.

You are your child's voice. GSPC provides opportunities for Parents :

• develop advocacy skills
• attend parenting skills workshops
• help other parents
• coordinate kid-friendly activities
• learn about Early Childhood Services
• connect with other families
• discuss issues that matter to your family

Make a Difference in your community!

Come visit us on February 28^th, 2011 at 10am, Charlotte Assembly of God, across from Meijer.  Light refreshments provided and children are always welcome!

Please contact Kimi Mead, 517-541-8796 or kmead@eatonisd.org for more information.