The Family Connection:

GROTON

A Resource Guide for Groton Families WithChildren Ages Birth to Eight

Spring 2008

Table of ContentsTable of Contents

Emergency Service Agencies Page 1

Early Care Services Page 6 General Information Page 7 Licensed/School Programs Page 11 Licensed Family Home Care Page 20

Family Support Services Page 25 Food and Staples Page 35 Clothing Page 37 Housing/Shelter Page 37 Transportation Page 41

Health and Medical Services Page 46

Municipal and Government Page 51

Family Fun and Recreation Page 53

Parks, Playgrounds and Recreational Areas Page 68

Museums, Arenas, and Concert Venues Page 73

Groton Schools Page 77

1

Emergency ServiceEmergency Service AgenciesAgencies

2

City of Groton Fire Department 140 Broad StreetGroton, CT 06340445-2456

City of Groton Police Department 295 Meridian Street Groton, CT 06340445-2451

City of Groton Police SubstationBranford Manor Location115 Branford Avenue Groton, CT 06340446-1696

Groton Ambulance Association P.O. Box 824 Groton, CT 06340445-6925 449-0924

Provide emergency services to all ages as needed. Agency provides CPR and First Aid instruction as requested. Tours of facility, including ambulances, are available for schools, childcare centers, and other groups. Certified instructors.

3

Ledge Light Health District P.O. Box 909 943 North RoadGroton, CT 06340448-4882

Mystic Fire Department P.O. Box 338 Mystic, CT 06355572-7567

Mystic River Ambulance P.O. Box 64 West Mystic, CT 06388572-0581

Noank Fire Department P.O. Box 9202 Noank, CT 06340536-7366

Old Mystic Fire Department 295 Cow Hill RoadMystic, CT 06355536-2220

Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department 13 Fort Hill Road Groton, CT 06340446-5997

4

Town of Groton Police SubstationPoquonnock Bridge Location38 Central AvenueGroton, CT 06340441-6693

Town of Groton Police SubstationMilitary Housing Location92 Gungywamp RoadGroton, CT 06340

Town of Groton Police SubstationMystic LocationWater StreetMystic, CT 06355

Connecticut Bicycle Helmet Law:

LAW: All children under age 16 must wear a Helmet when riding a bicycle in Connecticut.

For more information, please contact

Connecticut SAFE KIDS

at http://www.ctsafekids.org

or 860-545-9988

or in New London County 860-442-0733.

Child Passenger Safety Laws in Connecticut(Effective October 1, 2005)

Public ACT 05-58LAW: Infants must remain rear-facing until they are both 20 pounds and at least one year old. Further recommended: Keep infants rear-facing until they meet the maximum height or weight requirements of the car seat when it is rear-facing and they are at least one year old and 20 pounds.

LAW: Toddlers must be in a car seat. Further recommend-ed: Children should remain in a car seat until they are 40 pounds. Additionally, don’t use a car seat that has been in a crash or is more than six years old.

LAW: Children must be in a booster seat (or car seat with harness straps weighted for children over 60 pounds) until the children are both over 6 years old and over 60 pounds. Children who ride in a booster seat must use a lap and shoulder belt. Further recommended: Children should con-tinue to ride in a booster seat until they are 4’9”.

LAW: Children, tweens and teens must be in a seat belt wherever they ride in the vehicle. Further recommended: Children should ride in the back seat until they are 13 years old. All people and objects should be properly restrained wherever they are in the vehicle.

5

For more information, please contact

Connecticut SAFE KIDS

at http://www.ctsafekids.org

or 860-545-9988

or in New London County 860-442-0733.

6

Early Care ServicesEarly Care Services

7

General Early Care Information

State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Child Care Licensing DivisionPO Box 340308 Hartford, CT 06134800-282-6063fax: 800-439-0437 http://www.dph.state.ct.us/BRS/Day_Care/day_care.htm

Information on all licensing requirements, tips for selecting quality programs, and listings of all licensed programs.

Care-4-Kids Program1344 Silas Deane Highway Rocky Hill, CT 060671-888-214-5437http://www.ctcare4kids.com/

This program offers childcare subsidies based on family income. Forms are available online.

2-1-1 Child Care1344 Silas Deane Hwy.Rocky Hill, CT 06067http://www.infoline.org

A confidential and free child care referral telephone service in Connecticut - just dial 2-1-1. Child care referral specialists are available to assist parents and child care providers in locating appropriate resources, child care openings and referrals.

8

LEARNEarly Care And Education Department44 Hatchetts Hill RoadOld Lyme, CT 06371http://www.learn.k12.ct.us434-4800 ext. 161

Working with communities, families and schools to ensure all children birth-age eight are learning and ready to succeed.

NAEYC – National Association for the Education of Young Children1313 L St. N.W. Suite 500Washington DC 20005 202-232-8777http://www.naeyc.org

Promoting excellence in early childhood education. Provides information for parents and providers on quality early care program standards and expectations. NAEYC accreditation is a nationally recognized voluntary accreditation program. All state funded child care programs are required to be accredited by NAEYC in Connecticut.

DCF Abuse and Neglect Hotline1-800-842-2288

9

Tips for selecting a quality EarlyTips for selecting a quality Early

Childhood Education program,Childhood Education program,

Child Care Center or School:Child Care Center or School:

Is the program licensed?

Call the licensing help desk at 860-509-8045to check or go to www.dph.state.ct.us

Is the program NAEYC accredited?

Visit NAEYC’s website at www.NAEYC.org

Visit the program when children are presentprior to enrolling your child. After enrolling pay unannounced visits at various times a day.

Make sure the staff members are friendly,smiling, and qualified.

Make sure there is adequate staff to provide careful supervision.

Look for clean, safe and well maintainedequipment, toys, and environment indoorsand outdoors.

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Ask for parent references.

Look for a thoughtfully plannedprogram of activities all throughoutthe day that will meet all of yourchild’s developmental needs.

Make sure the children are havingfun and are predominantly happysounding.

Do you feel welcome and comfortablein the program?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

*taken from Parent Guidelines for Choosing

A Child Day Care Program on the Connecticut

Department of Public Health website.

11

Licensed Early Care Centers and Public School Pre-K Programs

Cherished Children, LLC 801 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340448-3174

Children’s Nook 925 Old Buddington RoadGroton, CT 06340448-1984

6 weeks to 5 years Offering school-year and summer programs; 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. contact center for details.

Catherine Kolnaski Magnet School-Age Childcare500 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340449-5612

Offering before and after school care for students in Grades 1-5 enrolled at Catherine Kolnaski Magnet School. Program scholarships available.

Fairview Child Development Center 235 Lestertown Road Groton, CT 06340446-4337 fax: 448-3005 http://www.oddfellowsct.com

6 weeks to 6 years Full-day and extended-day programs available from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. NAEYC Accredited

12

Groton Early Childhood Development Center 591 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340449-8217

Provides childcare for Infant, Toddler and Preschool children living in the Groton/Noank zip code, using a School Readiness Sliding Scale to determine tuition. NAEYC Accredited

Groton Family Resource Center/Childcare500 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340445-2191 and 446-9362

Provides childcare for preschool children and ½ day kindergarten children who live in Catherine Kolnaski School district of Groton. Sliding Scale fees.

Groton Head Start 36 Central AvenueGroton, CT 06340448-2933http://www.tvcca.org

3 to 5 years A variety of full and part-time sessions. Home based program available for children 2 years 9 months. FREE Program; must meet income guidelines.

13

Groton Public Schools Special Needs PreschoolP.O. Box KGroton, CT 06340572-2150http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/centralOffice/pupil.html

3 to 5 year olds Offering a half-day program for preschool aged students with identified special needs. Slots are also available for typical peers. FREE Program.

Groton Public Schools Title I PreKP.O. Box KGroton, CT 06340572-2173http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/centralOffice/prek2.html

4 year olds Offering a half-day program designed to supplement a youngster’s progress in the area of school readiness. Students are selected to participate in the program based on screening scores, teacher recommendations, and residing within the appropriate school boundaries. School sites are selected based on district poverty level ranking. FREE Program.

14

Happy Times Nursery School Union Baptist Church119 High Street Mystic, CT 06355536-9871

3 to 5 year olds 2 1/2 hour programs of nursery school offering developmentally appropriate early childhood services. Morning and afternoon sessions available. 3 year old programs offered Tuesdays and Thursdays. 4 and 5 year old programs offered Monday, Wednesday, and yearly tutition fees, some scholarships available. NAEYC Accredited

Navy Child Development Program CDC#4 Sub Base NLONMWR, Box#14, Building CT-383 Groton, CT 06349-5014694-3215 Birth to school-age Programs are open to children of active duty military, Department of Defense (DOD) employees, reservist, or DOD contractors of Subase NLON. Offering a full range of preschool and early care services. NAEYC Accredited

15

Navy Child Development Program CDC#5 383 Highland Avenue - Building 386 Groton, CT 06340694-5967

Birth to school-age Programs are open to children of active duty military, Department of Defense (DOD) employees, reservist, or DOD contractors of Subase NLON. Offering a full range of preschool and early care services. NAEYC Accredited

Navy Child Development Homes Highland Avenue, Bldg. 386 Groton, CT 06340694-5965http://mwr.subasenlon.navy.mil/navy_child_dev_homes.htm

Navy Home based childcare program.

Navy School-Aged Care Program NautilusCommunity CenterGungywamp Road Groton, CT 06340694-5586http://mwr.subasenlon.navy.mil/sac.htm

Before and after school care for children from kindergarten through sixth grade. Runs for 42 weeks during the school year. Fees are determined by a sliding scale.

16

Noank Baptist Church Day Nursery School 18 Cathedral Heights Noank, CT 06340536-7129

3 to 5 year olds Traditional nursery school - play oriented setting. 3 day per week program offered Mon, Wed, Friday; 2 days per week offered Tues & Thurs.

Pfizer Kids Groton: Bright Horizons FamilySolutions40 High Rock Road Groton, CT 06340449-9446http://centers.brighthorizons.com/pfizerkidsct/

Birth to 12 years. This program is available to Pfizer employees only. Program offers Full-time kindergarten program, school-aged care, holiday and summer care. Facility includes meals services and on-site nurse. NAEYC Accredited

Precious Memories Preschool and Development Center195 Sandy Hollow Road Mystic, CT 06355572-9958

Birth to school-age Services available from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and include two snacks, lunch, natural juices and milk. Offering before and after-school care; year-round programs; and preschool sessions. Fees based on age group.

17

Riverfront Children’s Center 476 Thames Street Groton, CT 06340445-8151http://www.riverfrontchildren.org 3 months to school-age Full day, Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. Offering full year services, summer school-aged programs, before and after school programs, and school snowday programs. Sliding scale fee based on income and Care-4-Kids participation. NAEYC Accredited

Sacred Heart School Preschool Program 50 Sacred Heart Drive Groton, CT 06340445-0611 Preschool 3 and 4 years.

St. Andrews Presbyterian Church Preschool 310 Fort Hill Road Groton, CT 06340405-0478 3 to 5 year olds Preschool and Toddler programs offered Monday thru Friday. Four year olds attending three days per week (M-W-F) and three year olds attending two days per week (Tu-Th). Toddlers meet either Tu-Th or W-F. All preschool classes meet from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Toddlers from 9:15 to 11:45 a.m.

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St. Marks Toddler Play Group ProgramSt. Mark’s Episcopal Church15 Pearl StreetMystic, CT 06355572-0749

Stedfast Baptist Academy 1041 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340449-8526

Preschool program for 3 to 4 year olds. Scholarships available.

Stepping Stones Discovery and Development Center177 Pleasant Valley Road South Groton, CT 06340446-0441

6 weeks to 10 years old. Offering full and part- day early care services year-round. Before and after-school care available. Owned and operated by certified educators. NAEYC accredited

Susan’s Family Childcare 28 Hyrock Terrace Groton, CT 06340449-1974

2 to 5 years old Offering school-year and summer programs; 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. full and part-time slots available.

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Tollgate Christian Nursery School 66 Tollgate Road Groton, CT 06340445-8040http://www.grotonbiblechapel.org

2 to 4 year olds. 2 1/2 hour a day nursery school program including circle time, free play, snacks, music, and more. Monthly fees for 2 and 3 day a week programs.

Treasure Chest, Inc. P.O. Box 923410 Ward Avenue Noank, CT 06340572-1553

4 years and older. Offering a variety of childcare and education programs, including before and after school care sessions, beginning at 7:00 a.m through 5:45 p.m.

YMCA Small World Childcare Center 40 Central Avenue Groton, CT 06340448-6406 448-6406 Birth to 6 years Offering childcare services from 6:30 a.m to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, year round. Morning and afternoon snacks provided. Half-day programs available for preschoolers.

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Licensed Family Day Care Home Providers

Shannon Aguilar 50 Raintree CircleGroton, CT 06340326-5141

Naimbi Heyward 187 Laurelwood Road Groton, CT 06340449-9519

Karen Feliciano14 Griswold AvenueGroton, CT 06340448-2916

Susan Gerald28 Hyrock Terrace Groton, CT 06340449-1974

Tammy Jones2 Chestnut Hill Square Groton, CT 06340445-7296

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Michelle Kaniecki 113 Blueberry Hill Road Groton, CT 06340446-2492

Lisa Hylton 44 Newport Street Mystic, CT 06355536-3277

Annette Lapietra 34 Larchmont Terrace Mystic, CT 06355536-6703

Heather Keet 16 Wilson Lane Groton, CT 06340326-5555

Lori Saunders 9 Maple Drive Groton, CT 06340449-6953 and 449-8265

22

Kathleen Overton 18 Whittle Street Mystic, CT 06355572-8126

Donna Taylor (can only take NAVY families)26 Locust Circle Groton, CT 06340449-8101

Pamela Regnere 54 Ginger Drive Groton, CT 06340445-7655

Clara Sanabria 115 Chestnut Hill Road Groton, CT 06340405-1479

Tammy Shinn 54 Jefferson Drive Groton, CT 06340449-1939

23

Mary Louise Smith 326 Judson Avenue Mystic, CT 06355536-0630 (Before/After care only)

Amy Vandyne 30 Fleming Court Groton, CT 06340287-2919

Cynthia Weber 160 Dogwood Lane Mystic, CT 06355536-3052

Sonia Wood 57 Miner Street Groton, CT 06340405-8221

8 Safety Rules to Teach Children:8 Safety Rules to Teach Children:

1.1. I always check first with my parents or the person in charge before I go anywhere or get into a car, even with someone I know.

2.2. I always check first with my parents or a trusted adult before I accept anything from anyone, even from someone I know.

3.3. I always take a friend with me when I go places or play outside.

4.4. I know my name, address, telephone number, and my parents’ names.

5.5. I say no if someone tries to touch me or treat me in a way that makes me feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.

6.6. I know that I can tell my parents or a trusted adult if I feel scared, uncomfortable or confused.

7.7. It is OK to say no, and I know that there will always be someone who can help me.

8.8. I am strong, smart and have the right to be safe.

*taken from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children www.missingkids.com

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25

Family SupportFamily SupportServicesServices

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Apostolic Cathedral of Hope 157 Green Street New London, CT 06320437-7500Wednesdays, 2-4 p.m.

Bear That Cares 131 Cedar Grove Avenue New London, CT 06320444-7189

Catholic Charities & Family Services32 Huntington Street New London, CT 06320443-5328Mon-Fri, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Programs listed in this section provide a vari-

ety of emergency services, tangible resourc-

es, and general support to families. For a

full listing of churches, religious

groups, or civic organizations,

please refer to the Yellow Pages.

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Child & Family Agency of SECT New LondonDay Nursery7 Vauxhall Street New London, CT 06320442-2797http://www.cfapress.org

Child & Family Agency of SECT ECDC Site591 Poquonnock Road Groton, CT 06340449-8217http://www.cfapress.org

Children First GrotonC/O Groton Human Services2 Fort Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340441-6760

Working together to make Groton a better place for all young children and their families

CT Legal Services 153 Williams StreetNew London, CT 06320 447-0323http://www.connlegalservices.org/

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Early Connections Birth to 3 Program 401 West Thames Street, Suite 202 Norwich, CT 06360859-5528http://www.birth23.org

Birth-3 years old. Full array of early intervention services, including but not limited to developmental, speech, physical, and occupational therapists. All inquiries for services must call Infoline to make referral (800-505-7000)

Groton Family Support Center52 Litton AvenueGroton, CT 06340441-6790

Offers parents, caregivers and children the opportunity to come together for friendship, counseling and support services. Families of all types are encouraged to achieve and maintain healthy, positive relationships. Services include parent education, play and craft groups, family activities, workshops, home visits, counseling, support groups, information and referral. All services are free and confidential. Counseling available to Groton residents on a first come, first serve basis.

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Groton Social Services 2 Fort Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340441-6760http://www.town.groton.ct.us/depts/humansvcs/

Offers residents of the City and Town of Groton support in the form of direct assistance, case management, advocacy, crisis intervention and information/referral services to individuals and families who are in need of temporary assistance with housing, food and other basic necessities.

Groton Youth and Family Services2 Fort Hill RdGroton, CT 06340441-6780

Provides intervention services for at-risk children and youth and prevention services for children, youth, and families.

Help Me Grow1-800-505-7000

For help on your child’s learning, behaving and developing. Call to access Help Me Grow, the Connecticut Birth to 3 System, and Preschool Special Education Services

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HUSKY1-800-656-6684

Healthcare for Uninsured Kids and Youth

Joshua Center 20 Maple AvenueUncasville, CT 06382848-3098 and 848-1152 http://www.natchaug.org

6-18 years old Partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, extended day treatment program, and clinical day school program.

LEARNEarly Care And Education Department44 Hatchetts Hill RoadOld Lyme, CT 06371http://www.learn.k12.ct.us434-4800 ext. 161

Working with communities, families and schools to ensure all children birth-age eight are learning and ready to succeed.

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Mother’s Retreat, The Connection Inc. 542 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340405-2107http://www.theconnectioninc.org Birth to 5 years old Services provided to mothers and their children, intensive substance abuse, residential 6 month treatment facility. A holistic approach to addressing women with addiction (drug/alcohol) issues, addiction education, parenting, trauma, socialization.

Navy Fleet and Family Service CenterSubmarine Base NLP.O. Box 93 Groton, CT 06349694-3383http://www.subasenlon.navy.mil/

New London County Parent Aide Program UCFS47 Town Street Norwich, CT 06360892-7042http://www.ucfs.org/

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Pathways Center for Learning and Behavioral Health251 Westbrook Road Essex, CT 064261-860-767-12772 years and older Developmental, psychological, and educational evaluations.

Safekids New London County Car Seat Safety Check(By appointment only)Lawrence and Memorial HospitalNew London, CT 06320442-0733

Social Services - State of Connecticut 401 West Thames Street Norwich, CT 06360823-5000http://www.ct.gov/dss/site/default.asp

Stopping Men’s Violence - OIC 106 Truman Street New London, CT 06320447-1731http://www.oicnlc.org/

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Sylvan Learning Center Tutoring255 Route 12Groton, CT 06340445-4333

TVCCA - Thames Valley Council for Community Action, Inc.401 West Thames StreetNorwich, CT 06360889-1365http://www.tvcca.org/index.html

United Community & Family Services 153 Williams Street2nd Floor, Suite B New London, CT 06320889-2375

United Way of Southeastern Connecticut1868 Route 12Gales Ferry, CT 06335464-7281

The Women’s Center of SE Connecticut16 Jay StreetNew London, CT 06320447-0366 (Domestic Abuse Hotline)

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FIT FACTS from the AmericanFIT FACTS from the American Council On Exercise: The Top TenCouncil On Exercise: The Top TenFun Fitness Summer Activities forFun Fitness Summer Activities for Kids:Kids:

All year round children need to stay active, healthy and busy, especially when on break from school. Parents need to encourage their children to warm up properly and stretch be-fore each activity and teach them to never play through any type of pain or make winning the reason for playing a game or sport. Let them choose the activity and keep the focus on having fun. To keep kids moving, The American Council on Exercise suggests ten fun fitness activities:

1. 1. Soccer2. 2. Martial Arts3. 3. Bike Riding4. 4. Swimming5. 5. Basketball

Always be sure to gear up properly for anysport or game to keep kids injury free.

For more information, call 1-800-825-3636or go online to www.acefitness.org.

*Adapted from the American Council on ExerciseFit Facts.

6.6. Obstacle Course7.7. Dancing8.8. Board Sports9.9. Jumping Rope10.10. Ice/Inline Skating

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Food and Staples

Care and Share Kitchen Pleasant Valley Community of Prayer and Praise20 Grove Avenue Groton, CT 06340446-1616

Offering a free meal to all every Thursday, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Groton Food Locker2 Fort Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340441-6760

Any local family or individual who is in need of food is eligible to receive food from the food locker. Available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekly.

Groton Social Services and Youth ServicesBureau2 Fort Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340441-6760447-6780 (Youth Services)

MTC-MDA UAW Food Locker 18 Pleasant Street Groton, CT 06340445-8619

Thursdays 7 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appt for emergencies

New London Area Food Pantry 106 Truman Street New London, CT 06320443-6680

Mon, 2-4 p.m./Tue-Th, 10-noon

WIC – Women, Infants, and ChildrenTVCCA81 Huntington StreetNew London, CT 06320444-0006http://www.tvcca.org/services/wic.html

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Clothing

Baby Go Round 334 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340446-8174

Goodwill Store & Donation Center 664 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340448-6400

Twice is Nice 19 Roosevelt Avenue Mystic, CT 06355536-4634

Housing & Shelter Programs

AHEPA - Senior Housing 251 Drozdyk Drive Groton, CT 06340449-0291

Avery Heights Apartments 300 Brandegee Avenue Groton, CT 06340445-5133

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Bishop Court Apartments 60 Bishop Lane Groton, CT 06340448-3860

Branford Manor Apartments 37 Mather Avenue Groton, CT 06340445-6076

HUD subsidized housing; sliding scale rental fee.

Colonial Terrace Apartments 2350 Gold Star Highway Groton, CT 06340536-5999

Country Glen Apartments 600 Meridian Street Extension Groton, CT 06340449-9585

Covenant Shelter New London, CT 06320443-0537

Fieldside Apartments 23 Fieldside Drive Groton, CT 06340446-8088

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GMH Military Housing 235 Gungywamp RoadGroton, CT 06340441-2500

Groton Estates 260 Shennecossett Road Groton, CT 06340445-8519

Groton Towers 39 Broad Street Ext.Groton, CT 06340445-7456

LaTriumphe Apartments 300 Michelle Lane Groton, CT 06340449-9999

Ledges Apartments10 Wildwood RoadGroton, CT 06340448-6444

Mystic Area Shelter and Hospitality, Inc. Union Baptist Church119 High Street Mystic, CT 06355245-0222 http://www.cceh.org/MASH.htm

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Peppertree Apartments 278 Meridian Street Groton, CT 06340449-1219

Phoenix Apartments 369 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340445-5755

Poquonnock Village Apartments 1039 Poquonnock Road Groton, CT 06340446-0095

Shipco Property Management Co. 15 Gary Court Groton, CT 06340445-1475

Sutton Place24 Sutton Place Groton, CT 06340446-1950

Toll Gate Estates 1393 Gold Star Highway Groton, CT 06340446-1945

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Willow Pond Apartments 55 South Road Groton, CT 06340446-9171

Women’s Center of SECT16 Jay StreetNew London, CT 06320447-0366 (Domestic Abuse Hotline)

Transportation

Aloha Taxi 240 Hemstead Street New London, CT 06320442-5642

Amtrack27 Water StreetNew London, CT 06320800-872-2745http://www.amtrak.com

Blue Cab Company 176 Cross Road Waterford, CT 06385443-4303

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Curtain Medical Livery Service 174 Cross Road Waterford, CT 06385443-1655

Greyhound Bus Lines 45 Water StreetNew London, CT 06320447-3841http://www.greyhound.com

Harry’s Taxi Inc. 158 Montauk Avenue New London, CT 06320444-2255

Little LiveryTransporting young children691-0057

Norwich Taxi 192 Route 32North Franklin, CT 848-2227

Port City Taxi 33 Belden Street New London, CT 06320444-9222

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Shoreline East – CT Rail System1-800-ALL-RIDEhttp://www.shorelineeast.com/

Train services between New London and New Haven

Southeast Area Transit (SEAT) – Local Bus Service260 Route 12 Preston, CT 06365886-2631http://www.town.ledyard.ct.us/SEAT/SEAT.htm

Yellow Cab Company 176 Cross Road Waterford, CT 06385443-4321

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Healthy Eating and Fitness ForHealthy Eating and Fitness For Young Children:Young Children:

Eating healthy and physical fitness go hand-in-hand. The body is meant to be nourished and is built to move.

Try these tips to help your childreneat healthy:

1.1. Talk about it. Teach your children about the different food groups and how important it is to eat a variety of good foods.

2.2. Eat together as a family. Practice what you teach. Parents serve as role models for developing lifelong habits.

3.3. Limit or eliminate foods with sugar (candies, pastries, soft drinks, etc).

4.4. Give younger children small portions. Let them ask for more if they want more.

5.5. Give younger children 5 or 6 mini- meals a day. They have smaller stomachs. It may be an easier way to make sure they get a variety of foods throughout the day, and can prevent overeating and high calorie snacking.

6.6. Provide nutritious snacks (fresh fruits, low fat cheese, and cereal with low fat milk, etc)

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7.7. Limit eating at fast food restaurants.Fast foods are typically high in fat.

8.8. Don’t expect a clean plate. This can lead to overeating.

9.9. Try a variety of low-fat cooking recipes. Find healthy foods your children will love.

Try these tips to help your children get moving:

1.1. Let your infant roam around, safely, as much as possible. Limit time in strollers and playpens.

2.2. Make sure children get outside to play at least 20-30 minutes everyday, weather permitting.

3.3. Plan weekly family outings that involve being outdoors (biking, walking, Frisbee, swimming, etc).

4.4. Have a variety of fun equipment that promotes fitness (bouncing balls, basketballs, soccer balls, jump ropes, hula hoops, badminton, and bicycles, etc).

Taken from: childcareaware.org

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Health and MedicalHealth and MedicalServicesServices

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Backus Hospital326 Washington StreetNorwich, CT 06360823-6321

Charter Oak Walk-In Medical Center324 Flanders RoadEast Lyme, CT 06333739-6953

Child and Family Agency of SECT591 Poquonnock Rd.Groton, CT 06340449-8217

Child Guidance Clinic 75 Granite Street New London, CT 06355437-4550

Children’s Dental Associates190 Hempstead StreetNew London, CT 06320447-3216

Children’s Dentistry of Gales Ferry1527 Rte. 12Gales Ferry, CT 06355464-7204

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Coastal Counseling52 Bayberry LaneGroton, CT 06340405-0005

Community Health Center 333 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340446-8858

Community Health Center - Pediatrics 1 Shaw’s Cove New London, CT 06230447-8304

Early Connections 240 Oral School Road Mystic, CT 06355

Friends and Family Counseling Services1057 Poquonnock Rd.Groton, CT 06340405-8142

Gales Ferry Pediatrics 1527 Route 12 Gales Ferry, CT 06335464-7248

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Gold Star Pediatrics495 Route 184 Groton, CT 06340449-8882

Nutritional Services Unlimited11 Quarry Dock RoadEast Lyme, CT 06333739-4171

Mary Vallee, DDS925 Old Buddington Rd.Groton, CT 06340445-2820

Lawrence and Memorial Hospital365 Montauk AvenueNew London, CT 06320444-5125

Ledge Light Health District Putting on Airs Asthma Program943 North RoadGroton, CT 06340448-4882

Pequot Medical Center 52 Hazelnut Hill Road Groton, CT 06340446-8265

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Shoreline Allergy and Asthma Associates23 Clara DriveMystic, CT 06355536-2995

Shoreline Counseling Associates616 Gold Star HighwayGroton, CT 06340449-0200

UCFS United Community and Family Services400 Bayonet St.New London, CT 06320442-4319 or 892-7042 ext. 735

Visiting Nurse Association of SoutheasternConnecticut403 N. Frontage RoadWaterford, CT 06385444-1111

Women’s Care Medical Center 85 Poheganut Drive Suite #1 Groton, CT 06340448-6303

Women’s Center of Southeastern CT 16 Jay Street New London, CT 06320447-0366 (Domestic Abuse Hotline)

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Municipal andGovernmentGovernmentInformationInformation

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City of Groton Municipal Building 295 Meridian Street Groton, CT 06340446-4102

Groton Utilities 295 Meridian Street Groton, CT 06340446-4000

2-1-1 Infoline1344 Silas Deane HwyRocky Hill, CT 06067http://www.infoline.org/referweb/

Town of Groton Town Hall45 Fort Hill Road Groton, CT 06340448-4050 or 441-6640

Town of Groton Town Hall Annex134 Groton Long Point RoadGroton, CT 06340448-4050 or 446-5995

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Family Fun andFamily Fun andRecreation ActivitiesRecreation Activities

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All Out Defenses & Fitness, LLC 660 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 06320848-2050http://www.alloutdefense.com

America’s Game Baseball and SoftballTraining Facility 170 Cross RoadWaterford, CT 06385444-9687 or 444-8790 http://www.americasgame.com

3 years to Adults Offering baseball and softball programs, covering all aspects of the game. Six batting cages are available year round. Fixed fees vary in duration.

Barn For Artistic YouthAfter school Art classes for school agers35 West Main StreetNiantic, CT 06357691-0555

Big Brothers / Big Sisters of SECT 1595 Route 85 Montville, CT 06353437-3227

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Bill Memorial Library 240 Monument Street Groton, CT 06340445-0392

Birch Plains Golf Course and Driving Range119 High Rock Rd.Groton, CT 06340445-9918

Boy Scouts of America60 Darlin StreetEast Hartford, CT 061281-800-414-2433 ext. 259

Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern CT 30 Central Avenue Poquonnock BridgeGroton, CT 06340445-7667

Caruso School of Music94 State StreetNew London, CT 06320443-6810

Celebrity Cheer and Dance1434 Route 85Montville, CT 06353443-4324

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Centro De La Comunidad 109 Blinman New London, CT 06320442-4463

City of Groton Parks & Recreation 295 Meridian Street Groton, CT 06340446-4128 446-4109 http://www.cityofgroton.com

4 years and older Summer playground programs and school vacation activities. A variety of sports programs including soccer and basketball (6 yrs and older).

CT Defenders14 Stott AvenueNorwich, CT 06360887-7962

CT Songwriting AcademyMystic, CT 06355572-9285Guitar, Voice, Drama, etc.

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Dance Palace School of Mystic Ballet P.O. Box 429325 Mistuxet Avenue Mystic, CT 06355536-3671 572-8459 http://www.mysticballet.org

3 1/2 years and older Rhythm and movement classes, creative dance, all forms of ballet. Summer programs available. See website or call for details.

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center109 Pequotsepos RoadMystic, CT 06355536-1216

Eastern Connecticut Ballet 435 Boston Post Road East Lyme, CT 06333739-7899 739-7899 http://www.easternctballet.org

3 years to adult Wide variety of dance instruction. Three levels of pre-ballet, eight levels of ballet, pointe, jazz, modern, tap, natural stretch. Recreational classes and summer programs.

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Family Bowl120 Boston Post RoadWaterford, CT 06385443-4232

Four Seasons Indoor Golf515 Gold Star Highway Rte. 184Groton, CT 06340446-8799

Flip City 39 Wedgewood Drive Jewitt City CT 06351

Franco’s Extreme Laser Tag40 Boston Post RoadWaterford, CT 06385442-3000

Gabrielles Karate Kickbox Studio774 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340405-8247 405-8089 http://www.gabrieleskaratekickbox.com

3 years to Adult Karate classes for children and adults. Kickbox instruction for adults. Monthly tuition fees upon request. Certified instructors

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Galaxy Roller Rink210 Bridge Street Groton, CT 06340448-3882 or 446-2609

Year round roller and inline skating. Call for times of service.

Girl Scouts Of Connecticut New LondonService Center 21 Montauk Avenue, Suite 203 New London, CT 06320444-8195http://www.gsofct.org

Greatbrook 18 Hole Miniature Golf andBatting Cages850 Gold Star HighwayGroton, CT 06340448-7313

Groton Cinemas 6Groton Shoppers MartGroton, CT 06340445-7469

Groton Music Center441 Long Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340446-9540

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Groton Public Library 52 Newtown Road Groton, CT 06340(860) 441-6750

Hispanic American Services 43 Bank Street New London, CT 06320

Holiday Bowl27 Kings HighwayGroton, CT 06340445-6500

Hoyts Cinemas(phone express line)599-0400

Imperial Academy of Dance3 Church Street EastEast Lyme, CT 06333739-9940

Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut28 Channing Rd.New London, CT 06320442-8062

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Kay Pere Vocal and Piano InstructionMystic, CT 06355572-0629

Kartway1644 Rte. 12Gales Ferry, CT 06335

Kids Rule Sports Center2 Wisconson Ave.Norwich, CT 06360889-7853 info@kids-rule.org

Kente Cultural Center 219 Bank Street New London, CT 06320

Lee’s Toy and Hobby935 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340445-4411

Literacy Volunteers of SECT106 Truman Ave.New London, CT 06320443-4800

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Lydia DiScuilla School of Dance 23 Clara Drive Mystic, CT 06355536-6303

Mad Science376-9451

MBM Fun Center and Water Slide1225 Ocean Ave.New London, CT 06320443-8749 or 437-8618

Mike Turgeon Indoor Baseball School400 West Thames StreetNorwich, CT 06360887-6808

Monster Mini Golf658 Long Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340446-0006

Musicians Co-op of Mystic Musical Instruction44 Washington StreetMystic, CT 06355572-1490

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Mystic Arts Center 9 Water StreetMystic, CT 06355536-7601 536-0610 http://www.mysticarts.org 2 years to adult Art classes offered for ages 2-92 year round. Summer art camps, daytime and evening classes available. Tuition fees, scholarships available.

Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration55 Coogan Blvd.Mystic, CT 06355572-5955

Mystic Ballet325 Mistuxet AveMystic, CT 06355536-3671

Mystic Indoor Tennis90 Welles Rd.Mystic, CT 06355572-0632

Mystic Little LeagueGreenmanville Rd.Mystic, CT 06355536-0586

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Mystic Noank Library 40 Library Street Mystic, CT 06355536-7721

Mystic SeaportGreenemanville AvenueMystic, CT 06355572-5315

Mystic YMCA 1 Harry Austin Drive Mystic, CT 06355536-3575

Navy Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR)Submarine Base NLBuilding 164/ Box 14 Groton, CT 06349694-3695http://mwr.subasenlon.navy.mil/index.htm

Assorted recreation activities for military families.

New London County Cooperative ExtensionCenter 4-H Program562 New London TurnpikeNorwich, CT 06360887-1608 http://www.canr.uconn.edu/ces/fourh/

Norwich Municipal Ice Rink641 New London Tpke.Norwich, CT 06360892-2555

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Ron’s Guitars Music Center 785 Long Hill Road Groton, CT 06340445-0194 449-6926 http://www.ronsguitars.com 6 years and older

Music center lesson program offering 1/2 hour per week private lessons for guitar, bass guitar, drum and keyboard

Shennecossett Golf Course93 Plant StreetGroton, CT 06340445-0262

Spirited Soles Irish Dance Academy1495 Route 85Montville, CT 06353439-0192

SUBASE Youth Center 29 Hickory Drive Groton, CT 06340694-4702 http://mwr.subasenlon.navy.mil/syac.htm

The SUBASE Youth Center a 17,000 square foot building, provides kids with a youth lounge, gymnasium and other activity rooms. This fun place for kids is located on 29 Hickory Drive off Route 12 in Navy Housing.

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Thames Valley Academy Gymnastics 67 North Main Street Norwich, CT 06360886-4006 376-0120

2 years and older Offering boys and girls recreational gymnastics; girls competitive gymnastics; pre-school through high school instruction in an 8,000 square foot facility covering all olympic events. Annual registration fee.

Thames Valley Cheer Academy67 North Main StreetNorwich, CT 06360887-4051

The Dance Extension New London290 S. Frontage Road New London, CT 06320443-1154 443-1154 http://www.danceextension.com

2 years through Adult An assortment of rhythm and movement classes, dance form, ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop offered at various levels and ages. The center also has a non-profit performing company available for local performances. Monthly rate = $42.00; various semester tuition

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The Dance Studio 40 Boston Post Road Waterford, CT 06385

Town of Groton Parks & Recreation 45 Fort Hill Road Groton, CT 06340536-5680 or 536-5690 http://www.grotonrec.com Birth to Adult Provides a wide variety of programs, services and facilities to children and families. Programs include physical activity, socialization, creative expression and skill development in a safe, welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Fees vary. Scholarships available.

Yamashita International Karate 255 Rte. 12 Blg. #1Groton, CT 06340448-0315

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Groton Parks,Playgrounds, andPlaygrounds, and

Recreational AreasRecreational Areas

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Beebe PondFishtown Road, Mystic

Bluff Point State ParkDepot Road, Groton860-424-3200

Copp ParkGold Star Highway, Groton

Esker Point ParkGroton Long Point Road, Groton

Fort Griswold and MonumentMonument Street, Groton

Fort Trumbull State Park90 Walbach Street, New London444-7591

Farquhar ParkGales Ferry Road, Groton

Haley Farm State ParkBrook Street, Groton 860-424-3200

Mystic River ParkCotrell Street, Mystic

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Pequot WoodsSandy Hollow Road, Groton

Poquonnock River WalkwayRoute 1, Groton

Poquonnock Plains ParkFort Hill Road, Groton

Raheem Ali Carter Memorial ParkMidway Oval Drive, Groton

Spicer ParkSpicer Avenue, Groton

Sutton Park and Skateboard parkFort Hill Road, Groton

Washington ParkMeridian Street Extension, Groton

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The Important Role of Parents in a Child’s Learning to Read:

Reading books to your child is one of the most im-portant things to do to help your child learn to read. Learning to read does not begin the day your child enters school. It begins at home prior to the school years and extends well into the school years. Reading to your child at home will help with the understand-ing of how books work and will develop many of the concepts in reading to be successful in school. It will also result in your child building a stronger sense of language and vocabulary. By modeling your love of books and language, your child will become motivat-ed to be a reader.

It is important that you let your child help choose books and to talk about the pictures prior to reading the book. Other important things to do while reading the book include:

Have the child predict what is going to hap-pen in the story as you read it.

Stop to discuss the book in key areas while reading the book.

Ask your child if there are any connections the child can make with events happening in the story and the child’s life

Ask your child to join in if there is repetition of words or phrases in the story.

Use expression while reading so the story sounds real and not just like words on a page.

After reading point out letters of the alpha-bet, pictures, or words in the story.

Read the book many times so your child becomes familiar with the details and the language used in the book

Choose both fiction and non-fiction books

READ, READ, READ TO AND WITH YOUR CHILD EARLY IN LIFE AND OFTEN!

*Adapted from Groton Public Schools school

readiness materials.

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Museums, Arenas andMuseums, Arenas andConcert VenuesConcert Venues

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Best Production Company24 Chestnut StreetNorwich, CT 06360886-2378

Children’s Museum of SECT409 Main StreetNiantic, CT 06357691-1111

The Denison Homestead120 Peqoutsepos Rd.Mystic, CT 06355536-9248

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center109 Pequotsepos Rd.Mystic, CT 06355536-1216

DNA EpiCenter33 Gallows LaneNew London, CT 06320442-0391

Eugene O’Neill Theater Center305 Great Neck RoadWaterford, CT 06385443-5378

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Garde Arts Center325 State StreetNew London, CT 06320444-7373

Goodspeed MusicalsThe PlazaEast Haddam, CT 06423860-873-8664

Lyman Allyn Art Museum625 Williams Ave.New London, CT 06320443-2545

Mohegan Sun Arena1 Mohegan Sun Blvd.Uncasville, CT 063821-888-226-7711

Mystic Arts Center9 Water StreetMystic, CT 06355536-7601

Rentschler FieldEast Hartford, CT 06027860-610-4700

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Slater Memorial Museum108 CrescentNorwich, CT 06360887-2506

Submarine Force Museum – Nautilus1 Crystal Lake Rd.Groton, CT 06340694-3174

The Bushnell166 Capitol AvenueHartford, CT860-987-5900

Thomas J. Dodd Memorial StadiumNorwich, CT 06360887-7962

Yale Bowl and Yale FieldNew Haven, CT203-432-1400 or 203-777-5636

XL Center1 Civic PlazaHartford, CT 06103860-727-8010

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Groton SchoolsGroton Schools

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Catherine Kolnaski Magnet School500 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340449-5612http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/ck/

Charles Barnum Elementary68 Briar Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340449-5640http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/cb/

Claude Chester Elementary1 Harry Day DriveGroton, CT 06340449-5636http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/cc/

Cutler Middle School160 Fishtown RoadMystic, CT 06355572-5830http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/cm/

Fitch Middle School61 Fort Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340449-5620http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/fm/

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Mary Morrisson Elementary School154 Tollgate RoadGroton, CT 06340449-5655http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/mm/

Northeast Academy115 Oslo StreetMystic, CT 06355572-5863http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/na/

Pleasant Valley Elementary School380 Pleasant Valley RoadGroton, CT 06340449-5600http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/pv/

S.B. Butler Elementary School155 Ocean View AvenueMystic, CT 06355572-5825http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/sb/

Sacred Heart School50 Sacred Heart DriveGroton, CT 06340445-0611http://www.sacredheartgroton.org/

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Stedfast Baptist Academy1041 Poquonnock RoadGroton, CT 06340449-8526

Stonington Institute School428 Long Hill RoadGroton, CT 06340449-0611http://www.stoningtoninstitute.com/

West Side Middle School250 Brandegee AvenueGroton, CT 06340449-5630http://www.groton.k12.ct.us/schools/wm/

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First StepsFirst StepsThe Year Before Kindergarten*

Benefits: The year before Kindergarten you should already be laying the foundation for your child’s transition to Kindergarten. You can be-gin the process by:

Identifying the school that your child will be assigned to next year, or in some cases, choosing which school your child will attend.

Visiting the school or schools that your child might attend. Bring your child with you on those visits.

Obtaining the following information from the school:

a.a. A list of entry requirements (immunizations, documentation, physical, etc.)

b.b. An enrollment form.

c.c. School calendar and hours of operation.

d.d. Information about before and after school programs.

e.e. Transportation information (pick- up location, hours, telephone number of district transportation office, rules, etc).

Once your child’s school is finalized:

f.f. Date for Kindergarten registration and/or screening.

g.g. What meal options are provided, requirements for free and reduced lunches, and the cost of meals.

h.h. A description of the Kindergarten program.

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a.a. Obtain names of the principal, school secretary, Kindergarten teachers, librarian, etc. so you may begin talking about the staff in a positive way with your child.

b.b. Find out how you can be involved at school. If you can, volunteer to help out in the school.

Begin connecting with other families.

Provide opportunities for your child to become acquianted with other children so that he/she will see familiar faces on the first day.

*Adapted from First Steps The Year BeforeKindergarten Parent Tip #3, Terrific Transitions.

Funding for this resource guide has been made possible by a grant from

Th e William Casper Graustein Memorial Fund

“Education benefi ts bot h individuals andsociet y as a wh ole.”

The mission of the William Casper Graustein Memorial Fund is to improve the effectiveness of

education in fostering both personal development and leadership. The Fund’s grantmaking focuses

on Connecticut’s young children.

A special thank you goes out to community mem-bers, Children First Groton members, and all oth-ers kind enough to contribute their time, expertise

and resource information to this project.

GROTON