Gettysburg First Ten

Did you know that approximately 90% of a child’s brain development occurs before age 5? These early years are filled with opportunities for learning through play, exploration, conversation, movement, and meaningful interactions.

While technology can be a useful tool, balance matters. Young children learn best when they are actively engaged with the world around them—asking questions, exploring their environment, playing with others, and experiencing hands-on learning.

A few simple ways to create healthy screen habits:
✅ Set realistic screen-time goals
✅ Create phone-free zones at home
✅ Keep devices out of reach during family time
✅ Spend time talking, reading, and playing together
✅ Get outside and explore
✅ Be intentional and model healthy habits

Small changes can make a big impact on attention, sleep, social skills, learning, and overall development.

🌱 Growing minds need real-world experiences. Let’s help our little learners thrive!

The first Fish-for-Free Day in Pennsylvania for 2026 will be Sunday, May 24. 🎣

Fish-for-Free Days allow anyone to legally fish on Pennsylvania waterways with no fishing license required. All other fishing regulations still apply.

Learn more: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/fishandboat/fishing/regulations

You protect your child’s physical health. What about their mental health?

Check out these 7 ways to support your child’s emotional & mental wellbeing: https://ow.ly/JNrr50YAPEI
👶 IECMH for pros: https://ow.ly/YUeI50YAPEQ
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family resources: https://ow.ly/4NCt50YAPEH

This includes infant, toddler and preschool educators! https://www.uwadams.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Adams-County-Early-Childhood-Educator-Awards.pdf
Also, go to United Way of Adams County website homepage and click on the info button.

Join us for Positive Solutions for Families!

Positive Solutions is a free 7-session virtual training designed for families of preschool-aged children. This interactive series provides practical strategies to support children’s social-emotional development and strengthen positive parenting practices.

Dates: Tuesday/Thursday, 6 pm-7 pm | May 12-Jun 2, 2026

Register now: https://fcsn.org/event/positive-solutions-virtual-family-training-series-2026/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign&utm_content=ap_g52ryjf7jx

In PA, early learning programs participating in Keystone STARS have access to a free and powerful resource: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation. Learn how it is helping early educators build brighter, stronger futures for PA’s children: https://www.pakeys.org/iecmh/resources/