By: Myya Robinson, Mississippi Press Correspondent
MOSS POINT, Mississippi — Learning opportunities for children can be found everywhere we look, whether in the grocery store or on a farm. Moss Point’s Riverfront is even more of an educational experience thanks to a new program with the United Way of Jackson and George Counties.
Volunteers worked at the Riverfront Friday to construct an outdoor interactive early learning trail called the Born Learning Trail.
“We got a grant from the Moss Point Police Department for about $1,400,” said Donna Stewart, United Way. “We also got a grant from Chevron and Moss Point’s Excel by 5 Program.” Stewart says Born Learning is a national program through United Way and has several components. The interactive trial is one of those components.
The Moss Point trail runs from one end of the Riverfront to the other and consists of 10 signs, each including a different activity. The signs encourage caregivers to follow the child’s lead, building the child’s curiosity and confidence and reinforcing the learning already under way.
“It’s another opportunity for parents to remember what they already know, or learn something new about things they could do for children,” said Debby Renfroe, Excel by 5 state board member and Moss Point Excel by 5 Coalition member. “I think parents really want to do the very best for their children. Sometimes they just need some new ideas.”
Renfroe says the early years are most crucial to a child’s brain development. The trail is designed for children 0-5 years, but can appeal to any age. Renfroe says she can envision families enjoying the experience together.
“Older children can do it with their younger siblings. It’s a great family learning experience.”
Families in Pascagoula and Lucedale are already enjoying a Born Learning Trail. In Pascagoula, the trail can be found at the Beach Park and in Lucedale, at the City Park. The sites were constructed about three years ago thanks to a grant from the O’Keefe Family Foundation.
“We have gotten wonderful feedback from the other two sites,” said Richard Lucas, United Way of Jackson and George Counties board president. “A lot of parents use it, and the kids are learning, but having fun at the same time.”