News Release                                                                 For immediate release

                                                                                                                      October 5, 2006

Let’s Learn Early Kindergarten Registrations

Grey Bruce three year olds meet or exceed expectations entering school 

Every year more than 800 children and their parents attend Let’s Learn Early Kindergarten Registrations for all public and Catholic elementary schools in Grey Bruce. Last year 86% of the children registered met or exceeded the growth and developmental milestones for their age.

Early Kindergarten Registration provides an easy way for parents to learn more about their child’s growth and development, access available resources and services in the community and become more familiar with the school system. All three and four year olds who will be attending school in 2007 and their parents are invited to take part.

“Our goal is to make sure that every child enters school ready to learn,” says Carrie

Griffith, Manager of the Child and Reproductive Health Programs for the Grey Bruce Health Unit.

Early intervention can be the key to success for many children. The Let’s Learn Registration allows school personnel to connect children and their families with community networks and agencies to receive any necessary supports before children start school.

Registration lets children meet school staff and become familiar with the school before they go to Junior or Senior Kindergarten. This usually involves professionals from a variety of community healthcare or children’s service agencies who discuss with parents various aspects of the child’s development including speech and language, gross and fine motor skills and dental health. Assisted by this support, parents can help their child improve on certain skills and abilities before school starts.

A schedule of dates and times for Kindergarten Registrations will appear in local newspapers, Ontario Early Years Centres, childcare centres and school newsletters. The schedule is also available on the Grey Bruce Health Unit website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca. Parents and caregivers should call the school their child will be attending to book an appointment.

For more information, parents and caregivers can call their local elementary school or the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 519-376-9420.

-30-

Attachment: Let’s Learn Kindergarten Registrations 2006

For more information:

Carrie Griffith

Manager, Child and Reproductive Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 417

cgriffith@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca