The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County is hosting a free educational event on Tuesday, May 23 for families with children ages five and younger.
The event will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Howard Academy Community Center, which is located at 306 NW 7th Avenue, Building 3, in Ocala. It will include games and developmentally appropriate activity stations for the children, free books, and community resources for parents.
Pizza will be provided to attendees while supplies last.
During the event, parents will also be able to learn about the benefits of voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK), which is a free educational program for children who are four years old on or before September 1st.
VPK applications will be available, and parents will need to bring proof of their child’s age (birth certificate, signed immunization record, passport, etc.) and proof of residency (driver’s license, utility bill, paystub, lease, etc. within the past 12 months). Parents who complete the application at the event will receive fun educational materials ($55 value) and a chance to win one of five $50 gift cards.
The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County provides families with access to quality early learning programs that nurture children’s learning potential while preparing them for their educational success. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to provide leadership and foster partnerships to optimize a quality early learning environment for children through childcare, voluntary pre-kindergarten, and parent education.
For more information, visit the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County’s website or call 352-369-2315.