By Liz McBreen
The participants were returning for a second year after their debut performance at the senior center in 2001. The children sang and performed a holiday play that reflected the diversity of the center and the community to which it belongs. "It was a multicultural show, including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas," said Florence Walker, executive director and owner of the Meacham center. "It's important for the children to learn about different ethnicities, even if it is only a little part."
The child-care center was founded in April of 1998, and this year 62 children are taking part in the activities it offers. They range in age from 18 months to 6 years, and pre-school and nursery school are offered to the older children.
The Child Care and Learning Center welcomes children from Elmont and surrounding areas to take part in its daily activities. "We want to have a well-rounded schedule for the children, so we include hands-on active learning, structured activities as well as free play," said Walker. "Another goal is to teach the children how to get along with their peers."
The Learning Center plans to dazzle the seniors of Elmont again this year. According to Walker, the children, teachers and seniors were looking forward to the show in December. "The teachers here love to give back to the community," she said, "and this really is a good way to give back."
