CRANFORD — Calvary Nursery School and Child Care (CNSCC) welcomed staff, children and families of Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School and St. Michael’s Early Childhood Program on Holly Street for their annual Block Party and Ice Cream Social on April 10 in celebration of the “Week of the Young Child.”

As part of the national celebrations held across the country, organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), these three programs from Cranford’s early-childhood community united for a special hands-on event featuring a petting zoo, Bubble Show, a “Celebration of Literacy” obstacle course run by Lauren Antolino, the head of Children’s Services at the Cranford Public Library, and the Cranford Township Police and Fire Departments with their vehicles for over 350 children to explore.

“We know how important early education is for future success. Cranford is blessed to have so many wonderful institutions to help our children learn, grow and have fun,” commented Cranford Mayor Brian Andrews. “Thank you to Calvary Nursery School and Child Care, Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School and St. Michael’s Early Childhood Program for recognizing the Week of theYoung Child and all you do every day for our community and families.”

“Experts tell us that 90 percent of all brain development occurs by the age of 5. The experiences our young children encounter during this time shape their future learning and development,” said Stacy Nick, director of CNSCC. “This fun event is a great way to recognize the importance of early learning for all young children and to bring Cranford together to recognize those who dedicate their lives to working with them.”

The “Week of the Young Child” recognizes the importance of early learning and early literacy and celebrates the teachers and policies that bring early-childhood education to young children.