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In response to the childcare crisis that is impacting not only Davie County but the nation, Smart Start of Davie County in partnership with Smart Start of Davidson County, will host an Early Care and Education Academy in September.

This is an opportunity for those wanting to enter the workforce in early care and education to get a jump start on certifications and requirements while enhancing knowledge of child development.

The free two-week Early Care and Education Academy will take place Sept. 16-19 and Sept. 23- 26  from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  Participants can take required trainings necessary for employment in a childcare center.

The trainings include, but are not limited to: Fire Safety, Health & Safety Training, and Playground Safety.  Participants will learn about developmentally appropriate activities and expectations, classroom management, and brain development. There will also be sessions on professionalism in childcare, job opportunities, networking, and next steps for those interested in furthering their education.

Participants must be able to complete background checks and fingerprinting.

The goal is for participants to finish the program with everything they need to be successfully employed by a local childcare center.

“The timing of the academy could not be more perfect as September has been declared by the state of North Carolina as Smart Start Month,” said Allison Gupton, community relations and education coordinator at Smart Start of Davie. “Smart Start is proud to be one of the 75 partnerships that serve North Carolina by supporting our community’s youngest learners, their caregivers, doctors, and teachers.”

Register by visiting https://bit.ly/ecea92024.

“Childcare is the workforce behind the workforce and the difference you make today in the life of a child will truly impact tomorrow,” she said.

Contact Smart Start of Davie at 336-753-2113, visit www.daviesmartstart.org or stop by our office at 1278 Yadkinville Road in Mocksville to learn more about resources for caregivers and families of young children.