[D9640general] [eFlash_Rotary] Digest Number 789

[Garry D Krischock]

1. 1497: Magazine Month, Rotary Down Under 

Thu Apr 17, 2008 6:10 am (PDT) 


Magazine Month, Rotary Down Under

According to developmental scientists and early childhood educators, 
the cognitive, social, and emotional development of children begins 
at birth and continues at home long before they enter school. To this 
end, the Rotary Club of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, donated 
US$160,000 to an innovative, early-childhood educational enrichment 
program offered at La Perouse Public School, located in a nearby 
suburb.

The Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters works with 
refugees, migrants, isolated rural community members, and other 
disadvantaged groups throughout Australia. Through a two-year 
curriculum, specialists at La Perouse teach parents of three- to five-
year-olds how to develop their child's school readiness, 
communication abilities, and relationship skills before they begin 
their education in the classroom. By training as home tutors, parents 
gain confidence in their role as their child's first teachers. 
Families also receive educational books and games that emphasize 
reading and math skills.

"Thanks to Rotary, the children of La Perouse are more likely to 
succeed at school, hold down a job, buy a home, and enjoy good 
physical and mental health in their adult years," says Tony 
Nicholson, executive director of the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, 
which runs the program. 

Sydney club member Gerry Rihs says his club is pleased to support 
projects that help reduce poverty and promote universal primary 
education. 

Sherri Longbottom, coordinator of the La Perouse program, is grateful 
for the club's contribution. "Thanks to Rotary Sydney for their much-
appreciated donation. This now means we will be able to continue to 
work with more parents and their children in our community."

This story was adapted from Rotary Down Under, the Rotary regional 
magazine serving districts in more than a dozen geographical areas, 
including Australia and New Zealand

Source: Rotary International News 
Courtesy: eFlash_Rotary
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