Jolly Holiday Lights, a cherished Central Iowa tradition, is set to shine brightly once again this year. After two decades of spreading holiday cheer in Des Moines under Make-A-Wish Iowa's management, a new era begins with Winterland Inc. taking the reins. This transition not only ensures the continuation of the beloved lights but also provides a significant boost to Make-A-Wish Iowa's wish-granting efforts.

Why the Shift and the Impact

CEO Sara Kurovski expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to focus on wish-granting while Winterland Inc. steps in to maintain the holiday tradition. The 2023 season presented challenges that made it difficult for the nonprofit to manage the event alone. However, with Winterland Inc.'s involvement, the lights will continue to light up the sky and raise funds for kids.For every ticket purchased this year, $1 will go directly to Make-A-Wish Iowa. With 300 wishes waiting to be granted statewide and 80 in Central Iowa alone, this contribution is set to make a substantial impact. It allows Make-A-Wish Iowa to move forward without the upfront costs, putting them in a stronger position to fulfill more wishes.The drive-thru display, which opens Friday at 5:30 p.m. and remains on through Jan. 4, offers a convenient and festive way for families to enjoy the holiday lights. Tickets are available online and at the gate, making it accessible to everyone.

The Legacy Continues

Madelyn Graham, the marketing and sales representative of Winterland Inc., emphasized their excitement in continuing the legacy built by Make-A-Wish. The partnership between the two organizations ensures that the magic of Jolly Holiday Lights remains in Iowa. Graham is happy to keep the beloved tradition alive and provide families with a memorable holiday experience.The lights themselves have become a symbol of the holiday season in Central Iowa. They bring joy and wonder to children and adults alike, creating a sense of community and togetherness. With Winterland Inc. at the helm, this tradition will continue to thrive for years to come.

Benefits for the Community

Not only does Jolly Holiday Lights raise funds for Make-A-Wish Iowa, but it also brings people together. Families can gather in their cars and drive through the display, sharing the holiday spirit with one another. It's a time-honored tradition that has become an integral part of the Central Iowa holiday season.The event also provides a boost to the local economy. Visitors to the drive-thru display spend money on tickets and perhaps even grab a bite to eat or a souvenir. This helps support local businesses and contributes to the overall well-being of the community.In conclusion, Jolly Holiday Lights is set to light up the sky and hearts of Central Iowa once again. With the support of Winterland Inc. and the dedication of Make-A-Wish Iowa, this beloved tradition will continue to bring joy and make a difference in the lives of children. Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to experience the magic of Jolly Holiday Lights this holiday season.

Learning French while nurturing one's mother tongue language skills presents a significant challenge. Allophone children frequently encounter learning and communication hurdles in kindergarten, which can have a detrimental effect on their educational path. Nevertheless, promising solutions are on the horizon.

Unlock the Potential of Preschool Education for Allophone Children

Learning French and Mother Tongue Simultaneously

1: Learning French along with developing language skills in one's mother tongue is no simple feat. It demands a great deal of effort and dedication from both children and educators. Allophone children, in particular, face unique difficulties as they navigate the educational system. However, with the right support and resources, they can overcome these challenges and thrive. 2: The process of learning multiple languages simultaneously requires a deep understanding of language acquisition and development. Educators must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide appropriate instruction and support to allophone children. This includes creating a language-rich environment that encourages language exploration and interaction.

Preschool Education: Bridging the Gap

1: According to a study led by Sylvana Côté, preschool education services play a crucial role in bridging the gap between children with French as their mother tongue and those for whom French is a second or even third language. Preschool provides a unique opportunity for children to interact with their peers and educators, which helps them develop essential language and social skills. 2: Professor Côté, from the School of Public Health at the Université de Montréal (ESPUM), is at the forefront of this research. Her work highlights the importance of preschool education in preparing children for school and beyond. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, preschool can help allophone children feel confident and ready to learn.

Learning to Communicate

1: The findings of the study are clear. Allophone children who attend daycare or pre-kindergarten show significant improvements in cognitive development, social and emotional skills, and communication abilities. This is partly due to the exposure they receive to a diverse group of children and educators. 2: The Early Development Instrument, a Canadian tool used internationally, was used to measure children's readiness for kindergarten. Teachers played a crucial role in completing the questionnaires and providing valuable insights into the children's experiences. This data helps us understand the impact of preschool education on allophone children and how we can better support their learning.

Addressing Social Inequalities

1: Previous studies have shown that quality daycare services benefit all children, regardless of their economic background. However, there is still a long way to go in reducing social inequalities. Quebec's subsidized Early Childhood Centers (CPEs) were introduced to address these issues, but only 30% of children have access to them. 2: The researchers adjusted their findings to account for families' financial situations, and they found that the best services are often in affluent neighborhoods. This highlights the need for increased investment in preschool education in disadvantaged areas to ensure that all children have equal opportunities to succeed.

Academic Persistence

1: The best predictor of academic persistence is mastering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills by kindergarten. Children who lack these skills are at a higher risk of dropping out of school. Preschool education can help address this issue by providing a comprehensive approach to learning. 2: By focusing on the development of these essential skills, preschool can set children on a path to success. It helps them build a strong foundation for learning and prepares them for the challenges they will face in school and beyond.