Live Well Erie Initiative Joins in Honoring Early Learning and Family Engagement
April is Autism Awareness month
ERIE COUNTY, NY— Erie County is taking part in a nationwide celebration this week with the annual observance of the Week of the Young Child, hosted by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (“NAEYC”) as a time to recognize the importance of early childhood education and the role families play in shaping a child's development. This year, from April 5-11, 2025 communities across the country will come together to celebrate young children, their families, and the educators who support them. Here in Erie County, County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Deputy County Executive Lisa M. Chimera, Live Well Erie’s Children’s Working Group representative Chelsea Longberger, Kim Suminski of the Childcare Resource Network, and Megan Battista of Lift Off WNY at the Audubon Library to start the celebration.
“The Week of the Young Child is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the joy of learning and the critical role of early education,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “By celebrating together, we can build strong foundations for our children and support the educators who nurture them every day.” Poloncarz also presented a proclamation noting the week.
This year’s celebration is sponsored by Live Well Erie and its Children’s Working Group. Chaired by Kim Stewart, Director of Early Childhood PEDALS at Help Me Grow WNY, and Jill Garvin, Coordinator of Rehabilitation Services in Erie County Health Department’s Special Needs Division, the Children’s Working Group works to ensure that all children have the stability and support they need to succeed.
"It is truly a blessing to work among the dedicated childcare professionals in our community! The wellbeing and development of our children are woven into every aspect of Western New York's identity. I am honored and privileged to collaborate with WNY’s top-tier professionals who enhance the lives of children every single day. Our children represent not just our future, but the continued success of our shared story,” said Kimberly Suminski, M.S. Ed.
Partnerships and collaborations play a crucial role in expanding access to high-quality early learning programs, providing essential resources to families, and advocating for policies that support child development. A key priority of the Live Well Erie Young Children’s Group is to ensure that every child in Western New York receives a developmental screening within the next two years, helping identify needs early and setting children on a path for lifelong success.
Chelsea Longberger of Live Well Erie added, “It is apt that during the Week of the Young Child we take a moment to focus on Live Well Erie's goals to for young children in Erie County. Their hope to help every child get the support they need is as inspiring as the dedicated taskforce leaders."
The Week of the Young Child (“WOYC”) is more than just a celebration, it is a reminder that the early years of a child’s life lay the foundation for future success. Research consistently shows that quality early learning experiences contribute to improved academic performance, better social skills, and long-term economic benefits. By investing in early childhood education, communities help ensure that all children can thrive.
WOYC 2025 Event Highlights
WOYC will feature a variety of engaging activities for children, families, and educators throughout the week. Some key events include:
- Help Me Grow Developmental Screening Events – Free screenings will be available for children from birth to five years old at locations including the Audubon Branch Library, Buffalo Museum of Science, and North Collins Public Library. Families attending will receive a free developmental toy or book to support their child’s learning.
- Music Monday – Performances and activities featuring the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Buffalo String Works, Music Together 716, and the Community Music School.
- Tasty Tuesday – Nutrition-focused activities with resources from FeedMore Pantry Finder, the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and UpBeet Cooking Kids’ Classes.
- Work Together Wednesday – Community engagement events, including a special Space Month program at the Buffalo Science Museum, Help Me Grow Screenings, and highlighted organizations such as Child Care Resource Network and United Way.
- Artsy Thursday – Creative arts programs at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, Locust Street Art, and Bloom Creative Arts.
- Family Friday – A variety of family-friendly activities, including a mini-tour at the Botanical Gardens, parks and recreation events, and an Au-Some Evening at Explore & More Museum.
In addition to these themed days, a full schedule of story times, cooking classes, interactive museum exhibits, and family-oriented events will be held throughout the region.
Parents, caregivers, educators, and community members are encouraged to participate in local events, share their experiences on social media using #WOYCWNY25, and advocate for policies that support early childhood education.
For more information:
About Live Well Erie, visit https://www4.erie.gov/livewellerie/
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