FROM THE NEWSROOM: Physical Health, Mental Health, Safety, and Early Education were the four main issues discussed at an event where the Northeast Early Childhood Council also honored two local organizations for their service. The Plainfield Youth Activity Board and the Moms Club of Killingly and Putnam were presented awards by 44th district representative Mae Flexer, who says that despite the somewhat small membership of the organizations, they have done great work in improving the lives of local children. Afterward, the audience was split into groups, where they discussed the aforementioned issues, and gave a presentation of their improvement ideas. Some of these included better nutritional education, and mental and emotional screening through legislation. Paul Vivian is a consultant hired by the NECC, and says that recent events have spurred more discussion on mental health, which has had a direct impact on local policies. The council has received a grant from the state to begin a program of home visitation for families that have identified mental health issues. Vivian states that the hope is that early intervention could prevent an issue down the road. The council meets every month within the Killingly, Plainfield, Putnam and Sterling area, and provide childcare so that parents can discuss issues they feel are important to the early lives of children. Tune in tomorrow for more details.
Posted on: Thu, 05 Dec 2013 02:51:25 +0000