JCFEC gets down on the farm

Participants in a recent Parents as Teachers field trip to J.B. Gay and Son dairy farm, are from left, first row: Andrew Velazquez, Christan Mills, Erica Robinson, Jacob Swingle, Adan Crockett, Miche'al Frison, Edwin Reyes and Alan Reyes; second row: Francisa Gonzales, Irish Sampson, Jaylen Bynes, Destiny Young, Ja'Kweon Lee, Barbara Carter, Belinda Saxon, Rochelda Frison, Kaitlin Branch, Tramenkia Branch and Judy Reyes; and third row: Roderick Campbell, Shanette Jones, Pam Dwight, Bernestine Childs, Melissa Bynes, Othesie Dorsey, Nicole Young, Allen Swingle and Mary Young. (Photos contributed)

Parents as Teachers (PAT) is a parent education and family support program serving families throughout pregnancy until their child enters kindergarten, usually age 5. At a recent parent group meeting, fifteen families from the local PAT program made a visit to the J. B. Gay and Son Dairy Farm in Thrift. Mr. & Mrs. Collin Matthews currently lease the farm and gave the group a grand tour of the facility. County extension agent and tour coordinator, Wade Parker, was on-hand, as well, and shared interesting tidbits about the amazing advancements in dairy farm management. The highlight of the trip was the petting cage where children were able to reach out and touch a two-day-old calf. Families spent quality time together and learned about different things that happen on the farm. The children learned first hand what type of products we get from cows. After the tour everyone enjoyed a glass of cold milk, cheese, and yogurt. The PAT program provides certified parent educators who are trained to translate scientific information on early brain development into specific when, what, how and why advice for families. By understanding what to expect during each stage of development, parents easily capture the teachable moments in everyday life to enhance their child's language development, intellectual growth, social development, and motor skills.

From left, Allen Swingle, Jacob Swingle, Destiny Young and Miche'al Frison enjoy observing a calf.

Any individual or family interested in participating in PAT, please call Erica Robinson or Pam Dwight at the Jenkins County Family Enrichment Resource Center, (478) 982-8004.

Collin Matthews and son enjoy the tour.