The UAB Child Development Center (CDC) will celebrate the Week of the Child, an annual national focus on the needs of young children, their families and the importance of quality early childhood programs, with several events April 22-28, 2012.

The week is sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the world’s largest early childhood association, with nearly 80,000 members and a national network for more than 300 local, state and regional affiliates. Less than 7 percent of childcare centers in Alabama are both licensed to operate and meet the rigorous 400-plus criteria for NAEYC accreditation. UAB’s center is one of them. 

“We know that today, more than ever, a child's earliest years are crucial learning years, and those years lay the foundation for a child’s success in school and beyond,” says Randy East, UAB CDC director. “The Week of the Young Child is a time to recognize the needs of young children, and to recommit ourselves to ensuring that each and every child experiences the type of early learning environment – at home, at childcare and in the community – that will build better futures for all children.”

During the week, the UAB CDC, along with other centers in the state, will mail handprints of their children as well as letters from educators to the State House. Also, there will be times allotted for families and volunteers to read to classes, a UAB spirit day with a focus on family night out at the ballpark, a teacher thank-you luncheon, a parents' appreciation breakfast and a trip to the zoo.

The celebration kicks off on Sunday, April 22 from 3 to 6 p.m. at The Summit Barnes and Noble located at 201 Summit Blvd. The store will host a book fair where several UAB CDC staff will lead family activities. A portion of sales on that day, and through April 24, will support professional development of UAB CDC staff. Shoppers also can contribute to the CDC by making a Barnes and Noble purchase on-line April23-24. When completing the purchase form, enter code 10739506.

For more information, contact the center at 934-7353.