Early Childhood Special Education hosts family engagement night

Families and staff from Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) gathered Nov. 20 for a story night at Willow Lane Early Childhood Center. The event, held from 5 to 6:30 p.m., gave children and their families a chance to connect with ECSE staff, explore literacy and enjoy a variety of hands-on activities together. 

Families moved from room to room, listening to stories read aloud by ECSE staff. Each classroom included adaptations to the story to engage children and show families ways to support early literacy at home. Books read included favorites such as Pete the Cat, Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? and The Mitten. 

The gym offered active play activities and movement for children. Classrooms were set up with playdough, toys and pumpkin-themed activities that encouraged children to explore textures, sounds, shapes and creativity. Snacks were served in the cafeteria, giving families a chance to relax and socialize. Before going home, families could select their own bag of free books to take home and enjoy.

“One of our main goals is to strengthen connections and relationships between school and families,” said Kelly Bakker, special education building coordinator.

"It was so wonderful to see families spending time listening to and engaging with children's books together," said Miranda Boys, special education teacher. 

“Watching the joy of the student and families faces as they joined in was so heartwarming. Getting to make connections with our families is one of my favorite parts of this job," said Sydney Stuhlsatz (Lenz), speech language pathologist.

The family engagement night highlighted Early Childhood Special Education staff’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and fun experiences for children and families alike.