EarlyON Northumberland is extending a boarding call for area families to grab their passport for a program aimed at promoting fun and play at EarlyON centres in Northumberland County.
In November, EarlyON Northumberland is bringing back its “Discovery Passport” initiative, which encourages families to visit EarlyON centres and partner locations across Northumberland to take part in activities, collect stamps, and be entered for a chance to win prizes.
Lesley Patterson, Northumberland County’s manager of Early Years services, shared with kawarthaNOW some of the highlights of the 2024 initiative and her hopes for this year’s program.
“The children were always so excited to receive their passport stamp stickers when they had completed an activity,” Patterson said.
“They got to choose from a wide assortment of fun stickers and were proud to place them on the square in the passport. Families were very engaged in this fun, interactive opportunity.”
EarlyON Child and Family Centres offer free drop-in programs for parents, caregivers, and young children under six years old. There are seven EarlyON Child and Family Centre locations across Northumberland and a variety of partner sites in local libraries and community centres.
EarlyON programs provide families with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and play, both indoors and outdoors. “From the recently introduced Grandfriends program – bringing seniors and families together – to special programs for new or expecting parents, there is something for everyone.”
Programs are offered at various locations throughout the community on weekdays, weekends, mornings, and evenings.
“We’re excited to bring back the EarlyON Discovery Passport,” Patterson said. “It’s a wonderful way for families to explore new programs and activities, such as the Goodrich-Loomis Conservation Area adventures and family hikes in the Northumberland County Forest.”
Families interested in exploring EarlyON programs are invited to pick up a Discovery Passport at any EarlyON location or print one at home. They will receive a stamp from their EarlyON educator each time they complete an activity in the passport, by visiting an EarlyON centre, attending a program, or completing an activity.
Families who collect five or more stamps and submit their passport to an EarlyON educator by Saturday, November 29 will earn a small prize and be entered to win one of two $100 Indigo gift cards.
Patterson hopes the program proves to be successful like last year.
“One outcome would be to increase awareness of the free early learning programs across Northumberland County that support healthy child development and parent connections,” Patterson said. “This initiative encourages parents and children to engage in our programs in a variety of ways.”
For instance, if they always attend an indoor program, maybe they will try an outdoor activity this time.
“It is meant to be interactive, creating opportunities for families to see new things, and maybe bring a friend or two along for the experience,” Patterson said.
For more details or to print the Discovery Passport, visit northumberland.ca/EarlyON.
Printed copies of the passport are also available at all EarlyON Child and Family Centres across Northumberland.
