Children’s House depends on the generosity of donors and organizations like the United Way of San Juan County to support programs that help us in our commitment to excellence in early childhood education. We are a proud recipient of a UW grant that helps further our mission and development of a key program directly benefitting our families and ultimately our island community.

Funds from our 2012 UW grant will support additional family-partnering opportunities, one of the hallmarks of the Children’s House program. Maintaining a close and extended relationship with the family is a vital part of our early education philosophy. By partnering with families, through home visits, for example, we can extend that support.

According to the National Institute of Early Educational Research, one of the six essential indicators of a quality early learning program is “when parents are involved in all aspects of the programs.” Such programs empower parents by involving them as partners with teachers in supporting their children’s development.

Most of the preschool programs found to have long-term benefits include home visits or emphasized parent involvement in other ways.

These programs strengthen a parent’s ability to view their children as able, active learners and to support their children’s development of a sense of control and of intellectual, social and physical abilities.

By providing a warm, nurturing and collaborative environment for young children, we make a difference in their future success in school. This success carries with them throughout adulthood and into our community in positive ways.

We understand that United Way has limited funds and must often make difficult choices in evaluating grant proposals. On behalf of Children’s House staff, families and board, I want to thank the United Way of San Juan County for this grant, those who pledge generously in support of its mission and the UW grant committee which works compassionately to direct financial support into local programs that help our islanders in such fundamental and far-reaching ways.

Susan Anderson

CH Executive Director