Strong Start essential
Chilliwack Times
16 Jan 2007
By: Kristyl Clark
EXCERPT

Little Mountain elementary is the chosen location for Chilliwack's first StrongStart early learning centre, a free drop-in program for preschool children and their care givers, slated to open in early February.

The centre is part of the B.C. government's overall plan to improve literacy and have children better prepared for kindergarten.

Around $50,000 has been allocated for Chilliwack to prepare an in-school space and fund the first year of operating costs, including staff, supplies and healthy snacks.

The centre will receive another $30,000 for its second year of operation, and an additional $10,000 will be provided after the district submits a thorough evaluation of the program....

A qualified early childhood educator will lead activities, including stories, music, and crafts to help children grow linguistically, physically and socially, and become comfortable in a school-like environment....

The centre will be open for three hours a day and is expected to operate in the afternoon. No registration is required. During the summer months, the centre will be relocated to Chilliwack Central Community school.