In an effort to place more emphasis on the importance of family, locals are invited to attend an issues forum on infants and toddlers.

The event is called “Minding Our Future: Investing in Healthy Infants and Toddlers.”

“It is vital that our community recognize the importance of family and quality care for our children while they are young,” said Jessie Stephens of the Children’s Policy Council Coalition. “We know that once our children enter school, teachers imbed learning and values into our students, but we, parents and community members, must do this before they enter kindergarten.

“Children are sponges,” she said. “They are soaking everything into their developing minds at a rapid pace. If we can encourage learning, reading, positive emotional development and healthy lifestyle habits during the early years of life, our families, schools and communities will benefit tremendously. It all starts in the home.”

The David Mathews Center will facilitate the forum.

Stephens said citizens will have the opportunity to weigh carefully the attractions, weaknesses, costs and consequences of differing perspectives on productive ways to approach this issue.

Three approaches will be examined:

• Develop capable and caring parents, guardians, and caregivers;

• Create healthy and thriving communities; and,

• Provide access to high quality comprehensive services for all children.

The event will be held Oct. 20, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., at the Covington County Extension Office.

To reserve your spot, call 222-1125 by Oct. 19, at noon.