May 2021

Great Start Collaborative News

Community School Readiness Surveys

Despite the MANY challenges everyone has faced in the past year, we know there are some things to celebrate. Please take a moment to answer this 2-question survey about the successes achieved in your home, classroom or organization.

Talking is Teaching Early Literacy Campaign

Summertime is a great opportunity to enjoy and explore the outdoors with our little ones! The sights, smells and sounds give us so much to talk about with our young children. And tuning in, talking more, and taking turns, helps those little brains grow by leaps and bounds! This summer, we are excited to offer families Talking is Teaching Literacy Walks held in various parks throughout the county. Colorful yard signs will lead the way, encouraging you to explore the images and respond to questions with your little one. Special event giveaways are being held at various locations.

Upcoming Family Events

MAY EVENTS

Virtual Parent Forum: Summer Family Fun!

Tuesday, May 18th 7:30-8:30pm
Kalamazoo County Great Start Collaborative's Parent Coalition is excited to host a Virtual Parent Forum on Tuesday, May 18th at 7:30pm. The Forum will feature local community organizations to talk about what fun opportunities will be offered for families this summer. Everyone who attends the forum will receive a free book for their family. Can't wait to see you there!

Virtual Parent Skill-Building Session

Wednesday, May 19th 1:30-2:00pm
This month we will focus on talking about BEDTIME! Participants will receive a Talking is Teaching Literacy Bag that includes a book and materials with lots of ideas of how you can talk, read and sing at home! All participants will be entered into a raffle to win a $25 Gift Card!

Virtual Parent Coalition Meeting

Tuesday, May 25th 7:30-8:30pm
Thursday, May 27th 1:30-2:30pm
Parent Coalition Meetings are opportunities for parents and caregivers to connect and take action on ways we can help support families in our community. There is an evening and daytime session so that you can select which one works best for your schedule. Your voice matters!

JUNE EVENTS

Talking is Teaching Virtual Playgroup

Thursday, June 3rd 10:00-10:30
Come explore this month's theme: Let's Talk About COLORS! This event is designed for families with children ages 0-5. We will read a story, sing songs, and do some fun interactive activities together. Following the playgroup, all families will receive a bag that includes a book, Talking is Teaching materials, and ideas for talking, reading & singing with your little ones at home!

Virtual Parent Café

Tuesday, June 8th 7:30-8:30pm
The Parent Café is designed to be a space for parents and caregivers to talk about the challenges and victories of raising a family. Schedule some time for yourself to connect with other parents in the community! We hope to see you there!

Virtual Parent Skill-Building Session

Wednesday, June 16, 1:30-2:00pm
This month we will talk about COLORS! Participants will receive a Talking is Teaching Literacy Bag that includes a book and materials with lots of ideas of how you can talk, read and sing at home! All participants will be entered into a raffle to win a $25 Gift Card!

Great Start Collaborative Staff

Sarah Drumm, Program Coordinator, 269-250-9635

Deirdre Bartells, Program Assistant, 269-250-9664

Ashley Drenth, Parent Liaison, 269-250-9665

Jen Stroven, Talking is Teaching Campaign Manager, 269-250-9701

Great Start Collaborative Vision

A Great Start for every child in Kalamazoo County: safe, healthy and successful in school and life.

Great Start Collaborative Mission

The purpose of the Great Start Collaborative is to ensure a coordinated system of community resources and family supports in Kalamazoo County.