WHAT WE DO
Through our programs, Friends of Meadowlark aims to raise the quality of care and education available to young children and ensure equal access to all families regardless of economic circumstances.
Parent/Guardian Education
Our parent/guardian education programs ensure every caregiver understands effective parenting practices in the context of their own culture and background and feels the connection to a support network of parenting and child development professionals and other parents. A good foundation of learning builds in parents a natural desire to see and understand their child and seek ways to best support their healthy development.
Tuition Assistance
Tuition assistance gives families access to high quality childcare as soon as they need it from age 3 months – 5 years. We know that the earlier a child is in quality care, the better the outcomes as children progress through the school system. Our tuition assistance program is open to all eligible families and is provided as needed as long as funding is available.
Enrichment
When children are participating in our enrichment programs, they are building new connections in the brain, supporting their physical and mental well being, and developing skills in areas that many children particularly connect with such as music, dance, sports and gardening. Providing a wide range of enrichment programs enables every child to find their passion and feel good about their abilities and skills.
Teacher Professional Development
Studies have shown a direct correlation between the quality of the teachers a child has in their early years and their success, happiness and productivity as an adult. Through professional development workshops, ECE classes, and a mentoring program, our teachers have the opportunity to continue their learning and understand best practices for working with young children.
Early Intervention
Funding for early intervention therapies means that we are able to identify and address developmental delays early, and connect families to speech, occupational, or behavioral health services before children reach kindergarten. Studies show that addressing delays and challenges early can change the trajectory of a child’s educational journey and life giving them the support they need to reach their full potential.
Community Outreach
Our reach goes beyond the walls of a preschool. Our community programs extend the benefits of our work to all Inglewood families. Every program builds community and connection, access to learning and education and opportunities for young children and their families to learn together, grow together and be together – essential building blocks for a child’s educational and life success.
