On Wednesday, Nov. 21, from 1 to 7 p.m., the Langley Early Child Development Committee will host CHILD (Child Health Information Learning and Development) Day at the Coast Hotel and Convention Centre in downtown Langley, 20393 Fraser Highway.
The event is intended to provide parents and caregivers of children aged 0-6 years with an opportunity to talk to experts about their child and services available in the community. It brings together public health nurses, child mental health, child development, child care, and speech and language experts as well as representatives of immigrant services, and agencies who deliver parenting and family resource programs in Langley.
"In the past, CHILD Days have been smaller events held at local elementary schools during school hours," said Karen Custodio, Chair of the Early Child Development Committee, and Early Years Manager for Aldergrove Neighbourhood Services.
"This has made it more difficult for working parents to attend. We're excited to be able to offer this event at different hours in conjunction with the Lower Mainland Annual Toy and Product Fair."
"All the research says that a healthy start for a young child has the most impact on a person's life. Right now parents have to work harder than ever to make ends meet and to find time to spend with their children. This event is focused on helping parents and caregivers give their children the best start," said Jenilee Woods, Manager of Early Childhood Programs at Langley Community Services and member of the Early Child Development Committee.
"We're very pleased to be able to offer child minding at the event so that parents can bring their children and know that they are cared for while they attend CHILD Day or the Product Fair.
Langley CHILD Day is one of the products of the Langley Early Child Development Committee, made up of early child development professionals from throughout the Langley's including representation from non-profit societies, School District 35, Langley Township, City of Langley and Ministry of Children and Family Development. CHILD Day is made possible with the funding and assistance of Langley Township, City of Langley, Aldergrove Credit Union and the United Way of the Lower Mainland.