UNICEF hosts workshop on media for infants and young childrenYangon, 07 April 2005 – This week UNICEF hosted a Workshop on Holistic Early Child Development and Media for Infants, Young Children and their Families in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. During the week, participants learned about early childhood development concepts, and developed a range of prototype media for children. Their work is being exhibited this morning at the Summit Parkview Hotel. This week’s workshop has brought together cartoon animators, creative radio and television talent, story writers, musicians, singers, photographers, illustrators, childcare professionals, health and social workers, and development professionals in Myanmar. The workshop has been led by Ms. Barbara Kolucki, a renowned international expert in the field of early childhood development. “One of the goals of this workshop was to help develop materials that would reach families living in difficult circumstances or families with low literacy skills,” said Ms. Kolucki. “Sometimes parents think they need money, a great deal of time, or a lot of education to be a ‘great parent’. Do you know what the best toy in the entire world for any child is? It is the body of a loving caregiver. Babies love faces. Voices sing songs and tell stories. Eyes light us and can show love. Fingers and hands can play games. And our bodies can become a horse, an elephant – or an airplane for our child. ANY parent can do this.” The very first days, months and years of children’s lives have a lasting impact on their future development. Quality books, songs, television and radio programs, and other media for children can provide a positive stimulus for infant and young children’s development during this crucial time. “The participants in the workshop have created magical media for young children, including books, posters, radio and TV spots for young children that are simple, creative and culturally appropriate,” said Ms. Kolucki. “It is the right of every child to have access to materials like this, and the most talented producers of media for children around the world have learnt that if one creates magic for children, grown-ups will enjoy and learn from it as well. So, we can reach two audiences at the same time – and influence their hearts as well as their minds.” At the end of this week’s workshop, participants are discussing means of further nurturing media for infants and young children in Myanmar, and developing implementation strategies to reach more families throughout the country. *************** *************** For further information please contact:
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