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Health & Fitness

Legislators Honored as 'Children's Champions' by the Early Childhood Alliance

Three members of the Norwalk state legislative delegation were honored at the State Capitol on Monday by the CT Early Childhood Alliance for their work to ensure that Connecticut’s children are health, safe, and ready for life-long success. The group included State Senator Bob Duff (D-Norwalk, Darien), who serves as Vice-Chair of the General Assembly’s Children’s Committee, along with Rep. Gail Lavielle (R-143) and Rep. Terrie Wood (R-141). In naming the legislators as “Children’s Champions”, the Alliance particularly cited their support for House Bill 6359, “An Act Concerning an Early Childhood System,” which would establish an Office of Early Childhood to manage the state’s school readiness, family resource center, child day care and other programs. “It is an honor to be recognized by the Early Childhood Alliance, an organization that does so much to help the children of our state. I look forward to the creation of a dedicated Office of Early Childhood, and the depth of focus it will bring to children’s issues, particularly to strengthening early childhood education,” said Sen. Duff. “Early childhood is the most critical period in a child’s development,” said Rep. Lavielle. “It’s the best time to build a solid foundation for good health, emotional well-being, and lifelong learning abilities. Children who are well prepared both intellectually and emotionally to enter school progress the fastest, and are best equipped to learn new material, make friends, and take advantage of opportunities as they grow and develop. I thank the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance for its dedication to young children, and I am proud to stand with this distinguished group of professionals who share my commitment to improving the lives of young people.” "I am honored to be recognized by the Early Childhood Alliance as a ‘Children's Champion.’ It's very much a pleasure to support legislation that provides a successful foundation for the most important early years for our children,” said Rep. Wood. “The legislators we chose to honor as Children’s Champions put young children front and center as they shape policy and engage with early childhood advocates to create the most effective early childhood policy for our state,” said Maggie Adair, Executive Director of the CT Early Childhood Alliance. The CT Early Childhood Alliance is a statewide membership and advocacy organization committed to improving developmental outcomes in the areas of learning, health, safety and economic security for children ages birth through eight.

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