Mayor Carlos Gimenez reads to pre-K students at United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education

Today, Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez read to a pre-school class at the United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education in support of early literacy. For the story hour, he chose: Clifford The Firehouse Dog by Norman Bridwell and At the Firehouse by Anne Rockwell.

He read as part of the United Way Volunteer Reader Program, a pilot program that consists of 45 volunteers that share an hour of story time...









each week with nearly 600 children in 39 pre-K classrooms throughout Miami-Dade. The program is focused on building early literacy skills and instilling a love of reading.

“The United Way Volunteer Reader Program is a great way for residents to get involved with their community,” said Mayor Gimenez. “Promoting literacy and encouraging our youngest residents to read is a true win-win and will have a lasting impact.”

Research shows that children who learn to read well at an early age will not only read more independently, but also achieve more in math, social studies and science. They are also more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education. Investing in them pays off: the ROI includes higher graduation rates, better job skills, increased homeownership and less chance of criminal activities.

To learn more about United Way’s Volunteer Reader Program, make a pledge to read to children, donate a book and/or volunteer as a reader for phase two of the Volunteer Reader Program, visit www.unitedwaymiami.org/VolunteerReaderProgram.

About the United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education
The United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education is an innovative learning, teaching, and training initiative dedicated to elevating the quality of early care and education in Miami-Dade and beyond. The Center models proven best practices, and shares those practices with adult learners including parents, educators, and child care providers. The Center also works with business leaders and lawmakers to raise the standards of early childhood education, and support sustainable and lasting change. For more information, visit www.unitedwaycfe.org.

Minimize family stress this holiday season

The holiday season is here and although it is seen as ‘the most wonderful time of year’ it can bring about unwelcomed stress. In order for families to truly enjoy the season, it’s important for parents to consider their children’s activities, routines and nutrition, and remember how easily stress levels can rise if they are disrupted.

With the holidays come shopping, cooking, traveling and...









decorating among many other activities, and these hectic non-stop schedules can become overwhelming for children. Below are some ways parents can help their children relax and minimize stress during the holiday season.

A little exercise goes a long way. During the holidays, children tend to spend a lot more time in front of the TV, computer or video game console. Don’t let these electronics become their baby sitters. Children and parents who are stressed need some type of physical activity. Take a 30-minute break to play catch, shoot hoops or take a bike ride.

An apple a day… Aside from all the sweets that come with the holidays, parents are usually very busy and might not have time to make a nutritious meal. Plan at least one healthy meal every day, and fit in fruit snacks in between meals for a natural energy boost.

Remember routines. Children, but especially babies and toddlers, can easily stress when their daily routine is broken. If you’re hosting extra family members at home or are taking the little ones on long shopping expeditions and added events, they will get overtired and very cranky. Making time for an uninterrupted midday nap should do the trick, because a well-rested child will be much happier than one who is in desperate need of a nap.

Yes, it’s a laughing matter. Laughter is still the best way to beat stress, so don’t sweat the small stuff. Take time to wear a funny holiday hat or outfit and encourage the kids to do the same.

Create and keep family traditions. Family traditions offer comfort and excitement, because children know what to expect. Perhaps your family can bake holiday-themed cookies or create fun-faced pancakes early in the morning, before the adults get busy running errands.

The holiday season doesn't have to be a time of stress and exhaustion. Children will usually follow their parents’ lead, so remember to stay calm, take breaks, have fun and most importantly stay safe.

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