Last week, Lawrence County continued what has become an annual tradition in observing the Week of the Young Child.

This weeklong event looks to not only celebrate the young children throughout Lawrence County and the country, but educate them as well.

The event got its beginning in 1971 and looks to bring focus on those children and families along with the programs offered that will allow them to begin to learn and develop.

The Lawrence County Early Childhood Academy provides these services at 11 locations throughout the county.

During the course of last week, students were able to participate in several special events like learning about making healthy food choices, reading, field day and visits from various Lawrence County law enforcement and emergency personnel.

These events are not only fun for the children, but lay an important foundation for the educational journey.

For the community, working to ensure these opportunities continue to be available for our youngest residents should be a top priority.

While many of these children may still be too young to fully comprehend each aspect of the events, getting them excited while learning is one of the most important things we can do as a society.