JRC Learning Center dedicates new playground equipment
CANTON TWP. − It took just moments after the ribbon-cutting for the preschoolers at the JRC Learning Center to acquaint themselves with their new playground equipment.
Like ducklings to water, the little ones climbed, slid, ran and yelled for joy over their big new toy.
The equipment was installed at the JRC Myrna Pastore Campus at 3300 Parkway St. NW, which also houses an adult day care center. The playground was dedicated Thursday.
In 2021, the nonprofit campus underwent a $6 million expansion and upgrade. The Learning Center opened last October.
JRC CEO Julie Abiecunas said the new equipment will foster learning through play by enhancing kids' motor skills, healthy habits "and things that go with our program so well."
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"Play is such a huge component of early childhood education," she said. "It's such a huge piece of their education. They learn through imagination, expression and cooperation."
The JRC Learning Center serves children 6 weeks to 5 years old. A second Learning Center is located at 2213 14th St. NE in Canton.
Learning Center Director Rene Ury said the new equipment will enhance the children's gross motor skills.
"It's such a wonderful asset to our play," she said. "It's a fun way for them to enjoy playing together and learning how to take turns. Many memories have been made on the playground."
The new equipment was donated by Huntington Bank.
"Our purpose at Huntington is to look out of all people, and children certainly are part of that," said Huntington Bank Community Greater Canton President Sandy K. Upperman. "This is in keeping with JRC's efforts to reach all children in their development, and this is exactly what this represents."
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Joe French, a JRC board member and CEO of Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health Services, said the five-star preschool offers families a safe and positive option.
"Trusting someone while you go to work is not easy," he said. "This is a safe place for kids to play and just be themselves."
To learn more visit www.jrccares.org or call 330-454-3471.
Reach Charita at 330-580-8313 or charita.goshay@cantonrep.com.
On Twitter: @cgoshayREP
This article originally appeared on The Repository: JRC dedicates new playground equipment for preschoolers
