Great Start Collaborative
Mission
Support the early childhood system so all children THRIVE.
Vision
Provide a Great Start for every child focusing on the state's early childhood outcomes.
Michigan's early childhood outcomes
1. Children are born healthy;
2. Children are healthy, thriving, and developmentally on track from birth to third grade;
3. Children are developmentally ready to succeed in school at the time of school entry; and
4. Children are prepared to succeed in fourth grade and beyond by reading proficiently by the end of third grade
Great Start Family Coalition
The Great Start Family Coalition (GSFC) is a group of parents and caregivers who work together to make Mecosta and Osceola Counties a supportive place for families with young children. Parent Voice is crucial and instrumental to the work of the Great Start Collaborative (GSC). Parents are children's first and most important teachers!
Meeting Schedule
October 22nd
10-11am at Angels of Action, Big Rapids
6-7pm Virtual via Zoom
February 25th
10-11a at Angels of Action
6-7pm Virtual via Zoom
March 25th
10-11a at Angels of Action
6-7pm Virtual via Zoom
April 22nd
10-11a at Angels of Action
6-7pm Virtual via Zoom
May 27th
10-11a at Angels of Action
6-7pm Virtual via Zoom
Parent Cafes
Are you looking to connect with other parent facing the same challenges as you? Parent Cafes are a fulfilling way for parents to talk, listen, and support each other as we discuss the joys and challenges that come with parenting. Parent Cafes help build strong families using The Five Protective Factors.
Upcoming Parent Cafes
October 15th 10-11a
The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City
October 23rd 10-11a
The Corner Cup, Remus
November 19th 10-11a
The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City
November 20th 10-11a
The Corner Cup, Remus
December 17th 10-11a
The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City
December 18th 10-11a
The Corner Cup, Remus
The Bridge Coffee Shop Parent Cafe
Mom Power
Parenting young children is the most one of life's most rewarding and challenging experiences! Mom Power is a 10-week strengths-based workshop. During the workshop moms will have the opportunity to connect with other mothers, take time for self-care, and learn parenting techniques that strengthen the parent child relationship.
Virtual Group
Mondays from 10-11:30a
October 7th-December 16th
Talk, Read, Sing!
Parents can help their children develop strong language skills through everyday interactions. Check out this tip sheet from Too Small to Fail to learn more about things you can do every day at home and in the community to build your child’s language skills: Tip Sheet
