The most crucial years for a child’s development are the first three years. Supporting these critical early years provides a watershed of healthy growth and future success.

Birth-Three You and Me: A Mountain Top Project provides resources, support, and education to all families of children between the ages of 0-3 in the city of North Chicago. Our goal for Birth-Three You and Me is to promote kindergarten readiness for all North Chicago children. We will connect families with resources and share what we know about the importance of:

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is regular healthcare that a pregnant woman receives to keep herself and her baby healthy. It includes normal checkups with a doctor or midwife, lab tests, and ultrasounds. Prenatal care can identify potential problems early on, leading to better outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Here are some tips for prenatal care:

• Start seeing a healthcare provider as soon as you know you are pregnant.

• Get regular checkups throughout your pregnancy.

• Eat healthy and get regular exercise.

• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.

• Take any medications prescribed by your doctor.

Parent-Child Relationships

Parent-child relationships are the foundation of a healthy childhood. Strong parent-child relationships help children to feel loved, secure, and valued. They also help children to develop into happy and well-adjusted adults.

Here are some tips for building strong parent-child relationships:

• Spend time with your child every day.

• Listen to your child and show them that you care about what they have to say.

• Be positive and supportive.

• Set clear expectations and boundaries.

• Be consistent with discipline.

• Show your child love and affection.

Play and Reading Time

Play and reading time are essential for early childhood development. Play helps children to learn about the world around them, develop their imaginations, and practice social skills. Reading can help children to develop their language skills while discovering different cultures and perspectives.

Here are some tips for encouraging play and reading time:

• Create a play and reading space in your home where your child can feel comfortable and safe.

• Provide your child with a variety of toys and books.

• Play with your child and read to them every day.

• Let your child choose their toys and books.

• Follow your child's lead and let them play and read in their way.

Birth-Three Play Group

Free and open to any parent with children 0-3, this spring’s sessions will be held at 

Green Bay Early Childhood Center EVERY…
Tuesday from 10:00 - 11:00 am & 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Wednesday 10:00 – 11:00 am

Each play group includes…

• Teaching tools to help parents support their children’s development with each week dedicated to a specific, relevant topic

• 20 minutes of music therapy, 40 minutes teaching a skill and…

• Modeling reading to the children and then motivating parents to do the same at home. Parents can also borrow books and gather handouts about the benefits of reading

• Register Now!

• For more information, feel free to call Kim Tanner at 847-775-7711

Prioritizing School

Prioritizing school is important for children of all ages. A good education gives children the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Scenarios that occur at school can aid in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Here are some tips for prioritizing school:

• Help your student create a schedule that allows time for schoolwork and other activities.

• Make sure your child has a quiet place to do their homework.

• Help your child to set goals and stay organized.

• Communicate with your child's teacher regularly.

• Emphasize your child to participate in extracurricular activities.

Early Screenings

Early screenings are tests and assessments that can be used to identify potential developmental delays in children. Early intervention and discovery can lead to better outcomes for children.

Here are some standard early screenings:

• Hearing screening

• Vision screening

• Developmental screening

• Dental screening

• Immunization screening

If you have any concerns about your child's development, talk to your pediatrician. They can recommend the appropriate screenings for your child.