Governors State University Family Development Center

What's going on in the Jr. Jaguar Children's Garden?

In celebration of Earth Day, join us this week, April 20-25, 2026, for a Story Stroll!

This outdoor experience invites readers of all ages to follow a grassy path around the pond, with each page of the book displayed on laminated signs. Enjoy a meaningful way to connect literacy with nature on campus.

This year’s featured book, Walking Together, 2023, by Elder Albert D. Marshall and Louise Zimanyi (text), with art by Emily Kewageshig, is shared with permission from Annick Press Ltd.

Sponsored by the Arboretum , the University Library, and the Family Development Center, this event is open to the public. Visit the Arboretum website for more information and resources: https://www.govst.edu/arboretum

Touch-a-Truck is always a Jr. Jaguar favorite! Thank you, University Park Professional Firefighters Local 3661, for visiting the FDC!

The Jr. Jaguars had a great time meeting with Dr. Ester!

PreK recently had their annual Glow Party.

While the children certainly had a blast, the teachers set up learning stations focusing on sensory exploration, fine motor, science, math, literacy, art, and gross motor.

The glow party proves that children can absolutely learn through play!

Our Family Service Advocate, Lura Brown, is the Illinois state flag bearer for the opening ceremony at the National Head Start Association Family Engagement Conference in California this week!

Math can be learned at any time of the day!

Daily Routines ⋆ DREME Family Math There are many opportunities for families to engage around early math in their daily routines. DREME Math Snacks inspire families to find and talk about math in everyday life. Like any healthy snack, Math Snacks are quick, easy, highly shareable, and perfect for any time of day. You could text Math....

Families, are you registered to vote?

Today is National Voter Registration Day!

As educators, our voices matter in shaping policies that impact our schools and communities. We must share our knowledge of early childhood to ensure that candidates have the best interests of children, families, and educators in mind.

Take a moment today to ensure you are registered to vote and ready to make a difference. Together, we can create positive change for education!

Register to vote: https://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/

Register at Starnet to attend this free toilet training webinar geared for parents!

Feel free to sign up for an opportunity to learn about toilet training that is offered our regional resource center Star Net.
Starnet Region VI

The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommendations for children’s use of “screen media.” Here’s what the Academy says is best for each age:

Birth through 18 months
Avoid all screen media—phones, tablets, TVs and computers. (It’s OK to video chat with grandparents and far-away friends.)

18 months to 2 years
It is OK to introduce young children to high-quality children’s media if you watch it with them and help them understand what they’re seeing.

2 to 5 years
Limit screen use to one hour a day of high-quality programs designed for children. Watch with your children; explain what they’re seeing and how it applies to the world around them.

Screen-Time Recommendations for Children Under Six Parents wonder whether screen time is educational, distracting, or both. Here’s how can you find high-quality content for your child.