Mayor Brandon Johnson, Department of Family and Support Services, And Chicago Early Learning to Celebrate The Month of the Young Child with Sold-out, First-ever “Chicago’s Largest Playdate” At Maggie Daley Park
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor's Office Hosts First-Ever "Chicago's Largest Playdate" Event for Month of the Young Child

Chicago's youngest residents and their families are in for a treat this Saturday, April 11, as the Chicago Mayor's Office, Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS), and Chicago Early Learning come together to present "Chicago's Largest Playdate." This free event, held at Maggie Daley Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., is a citywide celebration in honor of the Month of the Young Child.

Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his excitement for the event, stating that investing in early childhood is crucial for building stronger and safer communities across Chicago. He believes that this event will not only connect families to essential resources but also celebrate the joy, learning, and development that comes with play.

The event will feature various activity stations including arts and crafts, games, coloring, and more. Representatives from Chicago Early Learning will also be present to assist parents in planning and registering for preschool in the upcoming school year.

Cristina Pacione-Zayas, Mayor's Office Chief-of-Staff, emphasized the importance of early childhood in shaping a child's future. She believes that this event brings that understanding to life by creating a space for families to connect and support their children's development through play-based learning. Pacione-Zayas also expressed her pride in partnering with Chicago Early Learning and DFSS to bring this enriching community-building event to life.

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The response from the community has been overwhelming, with over 1000 RSVPs received this week. City officials are thrilled to see such a positive reception for an event dedicated to honoring Chicago's youngest residents.

DFSS Commissioner Angela Green shared her excitement for welcoming hundreds of young children to Maggie Daley Park for a day filled with smiles, laughter, connection, education, and creativity. In addition to the fun activities planned for kids, various City divisions and departments will also be present to provide parents with information on additional programs and services available to them and their families.

De Carla Burton, Owner and Director of Jump Smart Learning Academy, expressed her support for the event as a member of the Supporting Professionals Network Association. She believes that events like this not only support children's development but also recognize the hard work of families, educators, and community-based programs in building strong foundations for the future.

The Children's Museum, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Chicago Department of Aviation, and other local organizations will also be hosting giveaways and activities while offering additional resources for families.

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The event schedule includes registration from 10 to 10:30 a.m., followed by storytime featuring "Little Brown Boy + Girl" from 10:30 to 11 a.m. A speaking program with city officials and raffles will take place from 11 to 11:20 a.m., followed by a dance party from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event will continue with a parade at 12 p.m., followed by a visit from South Paw and raffle at 12:30 p.m. Grab-and-go lunches will also be available during this time.

In addition to these scheduled activities, there will be all-day activities such as crafts, photobooths, coloring walls, resource tables, and a calming station from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To ensure that families from all over the city can attend the event, 300 free CTA passes have been granted to participating families.

For more information about "Chicago's Largest Playdate," please visit their website. This event promises to be an exciting day filled with fun and learning for Chicago's youngest residents and their families.

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