ROCKINGHAM — Discovery Place Kids Rockingham hosted its annual Countdown to Kindergarten event, giving rising kindergarteners an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming school year through hands-on activities, community resources and interactions with local organizations.
The event focused on essential kindergarten and early learning skills, with children completing a Passport to Kindergarten, participating in literacy activities and receiving free school supplies.
Children also had the opportunity to meet community helpers, local heroes and mascots, make a healthy snack and explore back-to-school resources.
Richmond County Libraries, the Richmond County Health Department, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Rockingham Police Department, Rockingham Fire Department, Richmond County Partnership for Children and Rockingham Parks and Recreation participated in the event.
Richmond County Schools provided a school bus for children to explore as part of the experience.
Sparky with the Rockingham Fire Department and FAT CAT with the State Employees’ Credit Union also made appearances.
“We’re glad we can provide this opportunity for our community in a safe environment where families and children can learn and have fun,” said Director Angela Watkins.
Watkins said the event is also intended to help make the transition to kindergarten less intimidating for children who may be entering a school environment for the first time.
“Hopefully we’re building excitement because, as you know, kindergarten can be a little scary. It will be their first time away from their parents for some kids, and so if we can make that transition easier and help them see the positive in it, how much fun they may have— that’s what we hope to accomplish.”
Watkins said Discovery Place Kids Rockingham held Countdown to Kindergarten before the COVID-19 pandemic, and this year marks her fourth time hosting the event since becoming director.
Upcoming events at Discovery Place Kids Rockingham will include Winterville in November and December, followed by the museum’s annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration at the end of December, giving children an opportunity to ring in the new year early.