Kindergarten transitions can be especially difficult for children, as moving from a familiar setting to a new, often larger setting can bring on many emotions and feelings of uncertainty. Partnering with the local school district to host a kindergarten transition event can help children and families feel more prepared for this new experience. Friendship Children’s Center of Rochester recently visited Rochester City School District School No. 45. for a kindergarten transition event. Joi McMurtry, the executive director, reflected on this experience.

In May, the Finger Lakes Quality Improvement Specialists, in collaboration with Monroe County Library's Children’s Services Consultant Tonia Burton, welcomed family and group family child care providers to the Maplewood Community Library for an amazing day of outdoor learning! The hands-on professional development event, titled "Nature Nurtures Literacy: Books, Bugs, & Backpack Learning," focused on enriching children's literacy experiences by embracing nature and the outdoors.