Unique Early Language Project Launch

An exciting and innovative learning program for young children and their families will be officially launched today in Dartmouth.

The TLC³ program is designed to help parents and other grown-ups connect with young children. The program promotes early language and learning, which are key for healthy child development. Providing these skills before they start school will help give children a head start.

"We're proud to be involved with TLC³," says Community Services Minister Francene Cosman. "This project has great potential to be a model for programs in other areas of the province."

The TLC³ program also builds on the department's other prevention programs that are designed to help children and families in the early stages of development.

The TLC³ Nova Scotia launch at the Dartmouth Family Resource Centre will feature Sheree Fitch, children's author and storyteller. This event is an opportunity for the public to see the centre, meet the staff and to hear about this innovative project. Today's launch begins at 11:30 a.m. at the centre, 96 Highfield Park Rd.

TLC³ Nova Scotia is one of six TLC³ projects in Canada sponsored by the Lawson Foundation and the Hincks-Dellcrest Institute of Toronto. The Nova Scotia project is offered through the Dartmouth Family Resource Centre, in partnership with the Dartmouth Preschool, and in collaboration with Dalhousie University and the Department of Community Services.

The project will serve children up to the age of six in the northend of Dartmouth. The project offers parent education programs, parent-tot interactive programs, parent workshops, a preschool program, and speech-language pathology consultations.