Holy Family Childcare and Development is currently in the process of apply for national accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children.  The staff is proud to say that active learning and not baby-sitting is what they're about.  The children not only learn their ABCs and numbers, but also learn colors, textures, music, science, and cultural diversity.  An in-house library and computer room meets their young imaginations.  Personal hygiene is encouraged with such things as potty training and hand washing.  Physical activities are accomplished through exercise, walks, running and jumping.  Also, the very young are involved in active learning through various things such as:  learning to eat with utensils, finding their nose, and rolling over.  The babies receive a special treat when two faithful Sisters of St. Joseph volunteer their time and love.  To replenish the children's energy, an afternoon nap is offered.  In addition to breakfast, a hot lunch and an afternoon snack are provided.

This past year the center gave back to the community through a charitable Thanksgiving food drive, a donation to St. Jude's Children Hospital, and by donating cribs to the Diocesan Pregnancy and Parenting Program.  The four and five year olds also make monthly visits to the Good Shepherd Nursing Home to entertain the residents with songs and laughter.

Besides attending monthly in-services, the staff considers education very important in helping to care for and educate the children entrusted to them.  Four staff members have degrees in Human Service-Child Development, Elementary Education, and Early Childhood; three are attending college, and eleven have either completed or are in the process of completing the WV two-year Apprenticeship Program in Child Development.

Through the help of the educated staff at Holy Family Child Care Center, the children progress in their developmental levels in an atmosphere of St. Joseph:  gentleness, peace, and joy.

Michele Forsythe