NORWICH – Mayor Christine Carnrike issued a proclamation at the Common Council meeting Tuesday night declaring the week of April 8 to 12 ‘Week of the Young Child’ in the City of Norwich.

The National Association for the Education of Young Children has sponsored the Week of the Young Child every year since 1971 to shed light on the importance of supporting early childhood education and providing resources to educate young kids.

In kicking-off of the Week of the Young Child, Creative Works, Inc. and The Place will sponsor a free family event at The Artist’s Palette from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 6. The event serves to promote the different resources available to children and families in the community by bringing together local organizations and resources over an afternoon of games, art projects, face painting and more.

Program coordinator Rachel Ballin said, “The purpose of the proclamation and event for me is to encourage all citizens to work to make an investment in early childhood in our community, and to help every one of our children be able to grow, learn and thrive, to the best of their ability.”