Funds will support Baby Scholars Program: An Intensive Program to Improve Kindergarten Readiness

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry announced today it has received a $7,500 gift from RBC Bank to support Baby Scholars, a six-class program that targets high-risk families and provides mothers with information to teach their children basic literacy skills and core concepts such as counting, sorting and pattern-building.

Led by the Museum’s Director of Education, Robin Berlinsky – who holds a Master’s Degree in teaching literacy skills to young children – the program employs academic best practices through interactive sessions all designed by first grade and kindergarten teachers from around the country.  Working alongside two area non-profits, Florence Crittenton and Jaiden’s Place, each class will teach mothers that they already possess the necessary tools to be an effective parent and their child’s first teacher.  These mothers become empowered to ensure their children are ready for kindergarten and that they sustain long-term learning.

“We are proud to support an organization devoted to early childhood development and are excited to offer an expanded Baby Scholars program in conjunction with the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry,” said Alicia Smith McCory, Senior Relationship Manager for RBC Bank.  “For us, it’s more than just giving funds; it’s about building great strong community relationships and we’re thrilled to continue to be involved with CML!”

Denis Chirles, CML Executive Director, says “RBC Bank has been a generous supporter of the Museum.  Their gift exemplifies the importance RBC Bank and their leadership places in supporting early childhood development and in being a committed partner to the children and families of our Lowcountry community.”

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.  Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Admission is $7 per person and free for children less than 12 months of age.