Merrick Head Start recently hosted a pumpkin decorating contest, and the classrooms brought incredible creativity and imagination to the event.

Room 211 took home first place with a pumpkin inspired by The Old Lady Who Swallowed the Fly, while Room 206 earned second place with a Snoopy pumpkin based on It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

All the classrooms participated enthusiastically, making the activity a fun and festive experience for children and their families. Events like this help foster creativity, teamwork, and community at Merrick Head Start, providing children with joyful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

For more information about PEACE, Inc. Head Start programs, visit: https://www.peace-caa.org/hs/

This October, children and families at PEACE, Inc. Head Start had fun with pumpkins. They painted, carved, and learned together.

At Roxboro Head Start, families joined their children to paint pumpkins. The pumpkins were donated by Tim’s Pumpkin Patch. Nurse Ryan talked to the children and parents about the differences between candy and medicine to help keep children safe.

At Merrick Head Start, Room 211 children and their parents carved and decorated pumpkins. Each child took home their pumpkin. In Room 106, infants and their parents painted and decorated paper pumpkins. These activities helped families spend time together and have fun while learning.

At Sumner Head Start, Classroom 104 explored pumpkins in a hands-on way. Children touched and scooped the pumpkins. They also made a Fruit & Pumpkin Dip together.

PEACE, Inc. Head Start pumpkin events are a fun way for families to learn, create, and enjoy time together.

To learn more about our Head Start and Early Head Start programs, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

PEACE, Inc. Genesee Head Start is excited to share two special projects happening at our school. Tim Gardner, Room 4 teacher assistant, helped with creating a new walkway made of stepping stones from all four classrooms. Each classroom contributed a stone, and one special stone honors our beloved friend, co-worker, and “work mom,” Ms. Toni Blackmon. This new walkway provides students and visitors with a colorful, meaningful path to enjoy every day.

On the other side of the building, near the parking lot, students and families can meet Roscoe the snake. Thanks to Samantha Olson, Room 4 teacher, children and their special friends painted rocks during our September Male Involvement Event to create Roscoe’s body. Each rock was decorated with bright colors and unique designs, making Roscoe a fun and growing part of the school.

The next time you visit Genesee Head Start, stop by to see Roscoe and feel free to add your own painted rock. We hope Roscoe will continue to grow and bring joy to everyone who passes by.

To learn more about Head Start and Early Head Start, visit: www.peace-caa.org/hs

In awarness of Fire Prevention Month, Genesee Head Start welcomed local firefighters for a special visit with students and staff. The firefighters engaged the children in a fun and educational experience, reading a story, discussing important fire safety tips, and giving the students the exciting opportunity to explore one of their fire trucks up close.

The visit offered hands-on learning that reinforced fire safety lessons in a way children could easily understand. Students were able to see the firefighters’ gear and ask questions about the work firefighters do in their community.

Each child left the event with a fireman’s hat and a sticker, making the day both memorable and meaningful. Events like this help instill important safety habits while encouraging curiosity, respect, and admiration for community helpers.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start program, visit here

At PEACE, Inc.’s Liverpool Head Start site, the sound of gentle coos and caring chatter fills the room as children embrace their newest friends: baby dolls. The activity, called Baby Doll Circle Time, was recently introduced by Child Behavioral Specialist Beth Chiasson, and it’s already capturing hearts.

As the children cuddle, feed, and care for their dolls, they are doing more than having fun. They’re learning vital social and emotional skills. From practicing empathy to building attachment and nurturing abilities, these moments help lay the foundation for healthy relationships that can last a lifetime.

This initiative is one of many ways Head Start and Early Head Start programs support early childhood development in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Learn more about these programs and how they help children thrive at: www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

October is National Head Start Awareness Month, a time to recognize the impact of the Head Start program in New York. Head Start provides early childhood education, health services, and family support to low-income families, ensuring that every child has the foundation they need for success in school and in life.

In Central New York, PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start program has been serving families for over 50 years. Our comprehensive services include:

• Early Childhood Education: Play-based learning that fosters cognitive and social development.

• Health Services and Refferals: Regular screenings and access to medical care.

• Nutrition: Nutritious meals to support healthy growth.

• Family Engagement: Resources and support to empower parents and caregivers.

These services are provided at no cost to eligible families, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

To learn more about our Head Start program or to apply, visit PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start Program

The PEACE, Inc. James St. and Sumner Head Start locations recently hosted a heartwarming “Dad, Bring Your Child to School Day,” and the turnout was nothing short of incredible. Students beamed with excitement as they welcomed their dads—and moms—into the classroom, sharing in fun activities, laughter, and meaningful moments that made lasting memories.

The event highlighted the power of parental involvement, and the overwhelming support from families didn’t go unnoticed. “Your presence means more than you know,” organizers shared in gratitude. With such a strong community response, it’s clear the program is growing—and fast!

For families interested in joining the Head Start family, enrollment information is available at https://www.peace-caa.org/hs.

The first day of school wasn’t just for the big kids—PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start classrooms are back in session, welcoming children ages 0 to 5 for a new year of learning, play, and discovery. With a strong commitment to nurturing the whole child, the Head Start program goes beyond early education by providing comprehensive support through health services and a focus on family well-being. Dedicated staff work closely with parents to ensure every child has the tools and support they need to thrive. Here’s to a successful and enriching school year for all our Head Start families!