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About

Did you know from birth to age 5, a child learns at a speed unmatched the rest of his or her life? In fact, 90% of brain architecture happens before a child turns 5. Children are learning every waking moment. Parents and caregivers are a child’s first and most influential teachers. Reading, talking and playing with a child every day helps brain development, self-esteem and vocabulary. All of which are predictors of success in school and life.

So, It’s Never Too Early to Get Ready for Kindergarten!

One of the most exciting days for you and your child is the first day of kindergarten. This website is designed to help you and your child get ready for that special day- and it starts at birth.

Let’s get started together!

Local early childhood experts agree: reading, talking and playing together every day ensures stronger developmental outcomes and school success.  Your child learns best when they are spending time with you and doing activities that are fun and interesting.  They also learn in the little “every day” moments. So making every day moments count is important and it doesn’t take any extra time or cost any money!

Children develop at their own pace and “typical” development can vary greatly from child to child. And, school readiness is much more than knowing letters and numbers. Children who are kindergarten ready have good social, self-help and physical skills and are developing a love for learning.

Who we are

The “we” behind this website and the message to read, talk and play every day is a team of 20+ Champaign County, Illinois early childhood professionals and organizations in collaboration to provide support for young children and the adults who care for them. 

  • United Way of Champaign County
  • Head Start
  • CU Early
  • CUPHD and Great Start
  • Baby Fold
  • Brightpoint
  • Crisis Nursery
  • Unit 4 School
  • Unit 116 School
  • Rantoul School
  • CCRS
  • DSC and Parent Wonders
  • Carle, Carle Community Health Initiatives and Healthy Beginnings
  • WILL
  • Spectrum
  • Birth to Five Illinois
  • Champaign Public Library
  • Dreaam
  • The Well Experience
  • Child and Family COnnections 
  • Salt and Light
  • Champaign County Community Coalition
  • Building and COnstruction Trades Council
  • Kiwanis- Kids Priority 1
  • Champaign County Home Visting Consortium