Cindy Anderson, Well Child Center, Director of Development

"Well Child Center is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families through education, counseling, and services in the areas of childhood nutrition and pediatric dental health. Prior to 2012, our education was geared to parents and focused on nutrition and best dental practices. Our partnership with EPEL broadened our education component to include literacy and school readiness. At every visit, our child patients receive a book to take home. Parents-to-be are given books and encouraged to read to their baby in utero. Although this was met with some skepticism at first, new parents now excitedly share that when their babies were read the same book after birth, they “recognized” the book!

Most children do not look forward to dental appointments, but the books help ease their fears. Bilingual book baskets are also in our waiting rooms to encourage parents to read to their children during wait times. With EPEL’s guidance, we are in the process of enhancing our waiting rooms with educational toys that focus on early literacy. Working together as a community toward a common goal has benefitted, not only local families but enhanced our city’s sense of collaboration and purpose in making Elgin a great place to be a child. All communities should be so lucky!"