A group of early education organizations — along with parents and keiki — will be gathering tomorrow at the state Capitol to advocate for early learning experiences that involve Family Child Interaction Learning (FCIL).

In FCIL programs, also known as parent participation preschools, parents or other caregivers attend learning sessions with their tots a few times a week. Many of the learning activities are meant to be applied at home. The FCIL preschools are typically free, according to a press release.

Proponents of parent participation programs believe that family involvement begins even before a child is born. Attending organizations say it’s critical to support the family “in its role as the child’s first teacher.”

The rally is asking the state to include FCIL programs in its menu of options if the measures creating a public preschool program pass through the Legislature. More than 1,200 keiki, parents, caregivers and advocates are expected to attend. 

Parents who’ve participated in FCIL programs and home visiting options will be in attendance to share their stories. The event will also include hands-on learning centers with various activities for kids and their families.

Event details:

What: “We Honor Our Children. WE choose Family Child Interaction Learning” rally

When: Thursday, March 14, 2013 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where: State Capitol rotunda & lawn

Who: The ‘Eleu collective (‘Aha Pūnana Leo, ALU LIKE, Inc.,INPEACE, Kamehameha Preschools, Keiki O Ka ‘Āina Family Learning Centers and Partners in Development Foundation

 

Courtesy of Etsy Ketsy

— Alia Wong