parents university engages families
P
ittsburg Meadowbrook Mall was the site of the 25th Parents University, held on September 26. K-State Research and Extension’s Wildcat Extension District and area agencies host this annual event. Agencies work together to keep the event exciting, applicable, and fun for families.
This year there were 10 Play and Learn Stations with activities focusing on areas of childhood development.
• YMCA provided dance and music
• The Family Resource Center brought three huge tubs of Mega Blocks
• Head Start shared a large collection of musical instruments
• Crawford County Community Health hosted Dr Seuss’ Cat in the Hat
• Crawford County Mental Health/Via Christi took family photos
• Child Advocacy Center played a thought provoking game of “What If” with children
• Crawford County Historical Museum painted rocks with the kids to hide for the Facebook page Pittsburg Rocks
• EFNEP worked with the kids to make butterfly snack bags and share information about the food groups
• Parents as Teachers had tactile water beads and lots of beans and pasta to dump and pour
• Pittsburg Police Department provided child safety seat checks
A new addition to this year’s Parents University was the Diaper Cake competition. We had 20 entries from agencies, schools, organizations, and individuals. Attendees were asked to vote with their dollars to decide on a winner. The winner was the “Expectant Witch” from Via Christi. The organization raised nearly $300 to use towards purchasing diapers and wipes to help families in need.
We had 120 registered participants plus nearly 50 volunteers/agency members. The police department checked 10 safety seats and did an emergency replacement for two!
This long-standing program is one of Crawford County’s signature events. When visiting with participants I inevitably hear stories of second and third generation attendees. Though the event has changed over the years, it has long-standing tradition and impact.