Becky Anoatubby gives the go ahead to the Ada Head Start students to launch their balloons during the Week of the Young Child.

The Chickasaw Nation celebrated the 2008 Week of the Young Child April 12-19 with several events and activities for Head Start and Child Care students.

The Chickasaw Nation theme for the Week of the Young Child was “Children Brighten Our World.” Head Start and Child Care students enjoyed exciting events and activities including an art show, parade, parent breakfast, dental day, Little Olympics and a balloon launch followed by the Children’s Fair at Ada’s Pontotoc County Agriplex on Saturday, April 19.

“Child Care and Head Start programs, preschools and elementary schools conduct activities during the Week of the Young Child to bring awareness to the needs of young children, “said Chickasaw Nation Child Care director Michelle Key. “Children are a priority and we take time during this week, as well as everyday, to let children and their families know how important they are.”

The tribe celebrates the Week of the Young Child every year, developing new events for Head Start and Child Care students to enjoy. The Week of the Young Child is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The purpose is to focus attention on the children and families within the community and to recognize local early childhood programs.

For more information about Head Start or Child Care programs, visit www.chickasaw.net or for more information about the Week of the Young Child, visit www.naeyc.org.