From infants to toddlers to preschoolers, each stage of early childhood brings new accomplishments and joys in the life of a child. A free program titled “2,000 Days in the Life of Your Child” is aimed at giving parents the tools to raise their children to be healthy and eager to learn. It’s scheduled for Friday, October 24, 11:30 a.m. at the Grundy Center Community Center, 705 F Avenue in Grundy Center, sponsored by Grundy County Memorial Hospital.

There are approximately 2,000 days between birth and the first day of kindergarten. Researchers in early childhood development know that the first 2,000 days have a lifetime impact on a child’s well-being, ability to learn, and overall health. The Executive Director of the Iowa Chapter of the Academy of Pediatrics, Tess Barker, will share with parents how a child’s earliest experiences determine how their brains are wired, lay the groundwork for future health, and form the foundation of the social and emotional skills needed for academic and life success.

The program from Barker will be followed by a brief presentation on ‘Healthy Food for Healthy Children’ by Grundy County Memorial Hospital dietitian Crystal Petersen, RD LD, and the event will wrap up by 1:00 p.m.

Reservations need to be made for the “2,000 Days in the Life of Your Child” event so lunch quantities can be determined. In addition, free child care will be provided for those who reserve a child care spot when they contact the hospital with their reservation. Phone 319-824-5085 or email erin.schildroth@unitypoint.org by October 21 to make a reservation for this free event. The “2,000 Days in the Life of Your Child” presentation is made possible in part with a Community Health Needs grant from the Grundy County Memorial Hospital Foundation.