Community Event Raises Awareness for Early Childhood Development

On Friday morning 200 people gathered at the Capitol Theatre for ‘Our Babies, Our Future: The Science Behind Early Childhood Education for Children and Families’ to hear Dr. Brenda Jones Harden, a professor at the University of Maryland, speak on child development from age 0 to 3.

Commissioner Bob Thomas facilitated the event that was organized by HOPE from the Start, a collaboration of many Franklin County agencies, including local government, Head Start, school districts, the library system, Keystone Health, Summit Health, South Central Community Action Programs (SCCAP), the United Way, and the Chambersburg Area Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Harden discussed the importance and impact of early childhood experiences and relationships on a child’s health, social relationships, emotional regulation, education and economic opportunities and overall wellbeing. She stated that an infant’s exposure to language, measured at 6 months by words they recognize (i.e. ‘mama,’ ‘dada,’ a pet’s name) predicts future success in school and in life. “Early childhood holds the greatest opportunity and the most vulnerability,” said Dr. Harden. “Every mom, dad, grandmother—they should be talking to their baby as much as possible.” Child development happens through a baby’s earliest relationships and interactions.

Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Teresa Miller addressed the audience, “It’s no secret that parenting is tough and children don’t come with a manual.” Ms. Miller referenced her two year old daughter and her personal experience as a parent. She said that she wants to break the stigma surrounding the myth that parenting should come naturally. She went on to say that the state is committed to educating people about the benefits of parenting services like in-home visits, from which she and her daughter have benefited.

A panel discussion followed and included Dr. Brenda Harden, Karen Grimm-Thomas, Director of External Relationships, Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL); Andy Williford, Vice President of Human Resources, Volvo; Stacie Horvath, Human Services Administrator, Franklin County; Dr. Annette Searfoss, Executive Director, Franklin County Head Start; and Commissioner Bob Thomas as moderator.

Mr. Williford is a member of the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission, a group of 70 business leaders from across the state that works to raise awareness and support policy, budget investments, and work in local communities to expand access to high quality early learning. He stated, “There is an exceptional return on investment with early learning spending. This is a good place to allocate dollars.”

According to the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission website, “Investment in early learning generates an estimated return of 13 percent a year for the economy. Children in quality early learning programs need fewer supports in school, are more likely to complete high school, earn higher wages, and avoid unhealthy behaviors.”

Dr. Searfoss noted that Head Start has just completed its community assessment showing that Franklin County is strong in serving the 3 – 4 year old age group because of programs and partnerships with schools, but is lacking in services for the earlier ages.

Franklin County Human Services Administrator, Stacie Horvath is a co-chair of HOPE from the Start for Franklin County. She states, “Our group's mission is to celebrate families, elevate children's worth, and encourage resiliency while offering hope for a great today and an even better tomorrow. Every committee member is dedicating valuable time and professional knowledge and all are aligned to support pregnant moms, babies, children, and families to achieve our mission.”

Horvath added that, “Families, no matter the composition, need to know that they are doing a beautiful job, one of the most important roles in the world, and we all need to support and be there for one another. If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?  If not here in Franklin County, then where?”

The next HOPE from the Start collaboration meeting will be held on Friday, August 3rd at 9am in the Chambersburg Area School District Administration building.

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