The event will offer hands-on activities, developmental screenings, local resource booths and entertainment for kids up to 8 years old.
Almost every resource a young child in Long Beach could need will be offered for free at the fifth annual Celebration of the Young Child event on Saturday, April 27.
Parents, caregivers and their children will be greeted by a smorgasbord of activities, vendors, professionals and local resources at the Billie Jean King Main Library and Lincoln Park in Downtown Long Beach. Resources and activities will focus on children up to 8 years old.
“The early years of a child’s life are so precious, and the opportunities provided at this event can positively influence their lives for years to come,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement.
This event is hosted by the Long Beach Health Department’s Early Childhood Strategic Initiatives Program, the Long Beach Public Library and the Mayor’s Fund.
Last year, the City’s Early Childhood Education team conducted a community survey of participants from previous events to learn how best to support childhood development. The results from that survey helped to inform this year’s lineup of activities and resources, which features healthy food options, hands-on activities, spaces for children with varying sensory needs and on-site enrollment assistance to various programs.
Performances will entertain children and their families from Latin Grammy-winner and author of “Paletero Man” Lucky Diaz, as well as Wacko the Magician. Library staff will offer music and movement activities, read-aloud story times, a sensory exploration area and other educational activities.
Free parking will be available in the Civic Center parking garage located at the corner of Broadway and Chestnut Avenue.
Parents can also access early intervention resources and screenings for free. Screening tools will include the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ)-3, which is used to help parents identify areas of development where their child may need more support. Children can also take the articulation component of the Preschool Language Scale (PSL)-5.
Screening appointments will be made on walk-in basis ranging from 10 to 20-minute sessions, and parents will receive the results and connections to related services on-site.
“Celebration of the Young Child showcases our commitment to the growth and well-being of our young children, offering a solid foundation of support for future generations of Long Beach residents,” said First District Councilmember Mary Zendejas in a public statement.
Children can also receive vaccinations on-site. The Billie Jean King Main Library terrace will host information booths from local and regional education centers, agencies and vendors, who will be equipped with educational handouts.
The fifth annual Celebration of the Young Child will take place on Saturday, April 27 at the Billie Jean King Main Library and Lincoln Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No advanced registration is required, and the event is free to all.
