About this About this guide

This is the fourth edition of Albemarle Smart Start

Partnership’s Community Resource Guide, designed to help parents with young children learn more about the region’s resources for families. This guide includes information about the counties we serve – Bertie, Camden, Currituck, Gates and Pasquotank.

We worked hard to make this edition as accurate and up-to-date as possible, but it’s always a good idea to call before making plans, as times, locations and other information may have changed.

We appreciate the help and cooperation we received while putting this updated edition together. We hope our readers will find valuable information and learn more about the resources that serve our region’s children and families.

For additional copies, stop by the offices of Albemarle Smart Start Partnership, 1403 Parkview Drive in Elizabeth City. You may also call (252) 333-1233, (Elizabeth City) or (800) 262-8314 (toll free). The guide may also be viewed and downloaded from www.albemarlessp.org. Visit us on Facebook for up-to-date information on programs, services and local events - www.facebook.com/albemarlesmartstart

Albemarle Smart Start Partnership

Albemarle Smart Start Partnership is part of North Carolina’s statewide Smart Start initiative, which has the goal of making sure every child in North Carolina enters school healthy and ready to succeed.

In northeastern North Carolina, Smart Start funds support programs for children between birth and age five, their families and child care providers. The Partnership offers a variety of programs, and supports programs offered by other agencies. These programs are accompanied by the Smart Start logo.

How to reach us: The Elizabeth City office is in the Edgewood Center at 1403 Parkview Drive. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (252) 333-1233, send a fax to (252) 333-1201, e-mail smartstart@albemarlessp.org or visit us on Facebook www.facebook.com/albemarlesmartstart

What’s Inside

Welcoming your little one

Tips for a healthy pregnancy 3 Breast is best, but... 5 Breastfeeding resources 7 Advice for new parents 8 Feeling overwhelmed? 9

Parenting Resources Need help finding child care? 12 Choosing quality child care 14 Child Care Subsidy Scholarship 16 Parenting Programs 17 Fathering is child’s play 18 Resource Lending Libraries 20 Cooperative Extension 21 Children with special needs 22 Family Support Network 23 Preschool Programs for children

with special needs 25 Additional resources 27

School Readiness

Ready for kindergarten 31 Preschool programs 33 NC-PreK 34 Contact information for schools 35 Transition to kindergarten 36

Community Assistance Help in a Crisis 39 County departments of social services 42 Food Bank of the Albemarle 45 Housing assistance 53 Employment assistance 54 Educational opportunities 56 Child support 57 Health Care Resources

Albemarle Regional Health Services 60 Mental health & substance abuse services 66 Area hospitals 64 Other health care resources 66

Places to go and things to do Visit your local library 70 County attractions 71 Recreation Centers 75 Parks and Recreation Departments 75 Outer Banks attractions 77 Hampton Roads attractions 79

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Tips for a healthy pregnancy From Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has information about healthy pregnancies at http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/pregnancy_gateway/index.html

One of the best things a mother can do for her child is to take care of herself before the baby arrives. Here are some tips to help new moms have a healthy pregnancy, resulting in a healthy infant.

• Visit a doctor or clinic as soon as you think you’re pregnant, and keep your prenatal care appointments.

• Avoid exposure to toxic substances and chemicals, such as cleaning solvents, lead, mercury, some insecticides and paint fumes.

• Don’t smoke. Smoking during pregnancy increases the chances of premature birth, certain birth defects and infant death, and is one of the risk factors for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

• Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine.

• Avoid saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms while you are pregnant.

• Ask your health care provider about prescription or over-the-counter drugs before you take them.

• Get plenty of rest. Resting on your left side provides the best circulation to your baby and helps reduce swelling.

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• Stay active. Light to moderate exercise strengthens the abdominal and back muscles, which can improve posture.

• Stay hydrated. Drink extra fluids (water is best) throughout pregnancy to help your body keep up with the increases in your blood volume.

• Eat a healthy diet that includes whole grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, protein foods or meat. Foods that are low in fat and high in fiber are important to a healthy diet.

• Take prenatal vitamins to ensure that you are getting enough vitamins and minerals, including folic acid and iron.

• Wash your hands throughout the day and avoid contact with rodents, under-cooked or raw meat, and cat litter. Wear gloves while gardening.

Medical conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, and high blood pressure should be kept under control. Discuss with your doctor all prescribed and over-the-counter medicines and supplements you are taking. Frequent urination during pregnancy is normal, but if you experience burning as well, tell your doctor.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following: pain of any kind, strong cramps, uterine contractions at 20-minute intervals, vaginal bleeding, leaking of amniotic fluid, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, constant nausea and vomiting, trouble walking, swelling of joints, or if your baby has decreased activity.

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Yes, breast is best, but what about ... Most expectant moms know that breast milk is the

perfect food for babies. Babies get the benefit of increased immunity, and mothers are saved the time and expense of preparing formulas and bottles.

In addition, breastfeeding helps the mother’s uterus return to normal size quickly, and making milk uses lots of calories, so it’s a great way to lose the extra weight gained during pregnancy.

However, almost all new mothers have concerns about breastfeeding. Here are some common worries, along with suggestions for dealing with them:

Concern that baby isn’t getting enough to eat: Sometimes, babies do seem hungrier than usual. However, as long they are having adequate output, which is about six to eight wet diapers and three or four bowel movements every 24 hours, frequent nursing is probably due to a growth spurt. If your baby isn’t having adequate output, talk to your pediatrician or a lactation specialist for assistance. Worry about pain and discomfort: Although mothers have been breastfeeding their babies since the beginning of the human race, not all babies and mothers are pre-programmed with the proper techniques. However, new mothers can learn to minimize discomfort by contacting a lactation specialist or health care provider.

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Don’t wait until you experience a problem – learn all you can about breastfeeding and decide who to contact for support before your baby arrives. Fear that some people may think breastfeeding is “unseemly.” If you run into this attitude, you may choose to just slip off and find some privacy, as stress can make breastfeeding more difficult. To discreetly breastfeed your baby, try draping a receiving blanket over your shoulder, making a little tent for your baby and your breast. Make short shopping trips and scope out dressing rooms with a chair for resting or breastfeeding. Be sensitive to others’ feelings, but don’t compromise your beliefs. North Carolina General Statute 14-190.9 states that a woman may breastfeed in public. Concern that the baby’s father or other caregivers may feel left out. There are many ways others can participate in an infant’s day-to-day routine — bathing, rocking, soothing, reading stories, playing and singing songs are just a few ways for others to bond with your baby. Let the others in your child’s life know how important they are to you and the baby. Worry that you just can’t do it. Don’t worry but don’t be afraid to ask for help.

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Breastfeeding resources Healthy Homecoming: This program is offered through Albemarle Health (hospital). A registered nurse, who is also a certified lactation specialist, makes home visits to new mothers to make sure mother and baby get off to a good start. For more information, call (252) 384-4745. Albemarle Health (a Vidant Health Partner) Albemarle Health provides Childbirth and Breastfeeding Support for families to meet the needs of expecting parents throughout all stages of their pregnancy; all programs are currently free of charge. Breastfeeding and Childbirth classes are offered. For more information call 252-384-4455 or look online at: http://albemarlehealth.org/community-programs-calendar.php#edu.

New mothers are also welcome to call the hospital at (252) 384-4745. WIC/Nutrition Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a nutrition education and food supplement program for children birth to age 5 and women who are pregnant and breastfeeding. Clients must meet eligibility requirements. For detailed information, call (252) 338-4446 or visit www.arhs-nc.org and look under programs.

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Advice for new parents From Prevent Child Abuse America

Being a parent is the most difficult, yet most important and satisfying work you will ever do. During the busy days that make up the first weeks of parenting, remember to take good care of yourself as well as the new baby. Here are some tips for the early weeks.

Get as much rest as possible. Sleep when the baby sleeps and moms and dads can take turns sleeping.

Eat nutritious meals. If friends offer to help, let them bring you dinner or do your grocery shopping.

Talk with other parents. You will learn about caring for your baby, and you will meet other parents who share your interests and concerns.

Don’t expect too much from yourself. Eventually you will get back to a routine.

Call your doctor or clinic with any questions or concerns you may have; it can save you from worry.

Visitors can be helpful, but don’t let them interrupt your rest or your family time together.

Dads – don’t let mothers have all the fun. Spend lots of time caring for and playing with baby.

Have fun with your baby. The early weeks can be the basis for a lifetime of loving and sharing!

Tell your older children each day that you love them.

When you need a break, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

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Feeling overwhelmed? Nearly all parents have times when they feel they just

can’t take it anymore. Lack of sleep, feeling trapped in a house crowded with baby paraphernalia and an infant who just won’t stop crying can make even the best parents feel like lashing out. Here are some ideas to help keep your cool when you and your baby are having a bad day:

• Take a deep breath, and another and another.

• Remember HALT: Don’t get too Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired. Sometimes, all it takes to cure a foul mood is a sandwich and a glass of milk.

• If you find yourself getting frustrated and angry, call for help. Ask a friend, neighbor or relative to take care of the baby while you take a break.

• Make it a priority to spend time with other adults. After the first few weeks, babies are very portable.

Postpartum depression is very real. If you find yourself unable to get a handle on feelings of sadness or anger, call your doctor or a mental health professional.

Need help now? Call your health care provider or the emergency number for your county’s department of mental health. To learn more about preventing child abuse call Kids First at (252) 338-5658 or call Albemarle Health at (252) 335-0531.

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Need help finding child care? If you plan to enroll your child in child care, first learn all you can about choosing a high-quality child care center or family child care home.

Child Care Resource and Referral A good place to start a search for child

care is Albemarle Smart Start Partnership’s Child Care Resource and Referral program. A consumer education and referral specialist can give parents information about the importance of high-quality child care and an idea of what to look for when visiting child care facilities. With one phone call, parents seeking child care

in Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Gates, Hertford, Northampton, Pasquotank, and Perquimans counties can speak to someone who can provide information and referrals to area child care facilities that have openings. It’s important to note that these

are referrals, not recommendations. However, staff of Child Care Resource and Referral can give parents the information they need to make informed decisions. In addition, staff of Child Care Resource and Referral can help parents understand North Carolina’s star-rated license system. In order to earn a higher rated license (on a scale of one to five), a child care facility must have an

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environment that enhances the development of young children, along with qualified teachers who have completed college level coursework in child development or early childhood education. Child Care Resource and Referral has programs to help child care providers meet these higher standards. Pre-licensing assessments, technical assistance, training, site visits and consultations, professional development activities and financial supplements are available to help early care professionals do the best job possible when caring for the area’s children.

For more information and help finding child care in call (252) 333-3205.

For more information about Child Care Resource and Referral and other Smart Start programs, visit our Web

site: www.albemarlessp.org.

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Choosing quality child care In families where parents work full time, children

may spend more of their waking hours in the care of others than they do with their parents. In a high-quality child care center working parents and guardians can feel confident that their children are safe, well cared for, learning, and having fun.

Child Care Resource and Referral can give parents the information needed to make informed decisions about child care as well as provide a list of facilities that have openings.

When you visit each facility, here are a few general things to keep in mind.

• Does the playground look like a safe but fun place to play?

• Does the facility look like a good place to leave your child?

• When you walk inside, do you see happy children engaged in a variety of activities?

• How well do the teachers get along with the children? Do they seem to like young children and enjoy working with them?

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• Does the facility have books, toys, blocks to stack, art activities, centers for dramatic play, music, science and math?

• Does the facility have clear rules and expectations for the children to help them learn to get along?

• Do you agree with the discipline policy?

• Is the focus on learning through play? For young children, play is learning.

• Does the environment have opportunities for children to explore, create and learn about their world through all of their senses?

• Does the facility have enough space for play, group activities, meals and naps?

For very young children, early experiences set the stage for their future growth and brain development. A high-quality child care center can enhance your child’s future potential for learning. If you know you’ll

need child care, it’s a good idea to start your search early. Once you make a decision on where to enroll your child, be sure to visit often and stay involved.

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Child Care Assistance Need help paying for child care? Child care subsidy may

be available from your county’s department of social services. See page 42.

Child Care Subsidy Scholarship

Families living in Bertie, Camden, Currituck, Gates and Pasquotank may be eligible for Albemarle Smart Start Partnership’s Child Care Subsidy Scholarship. Families with children birth up to Kindergarten who have working parents or parents enrolled in school may apply. Strict eligibility requirements must be met. For more information about how to apply please call 252-333-1233.

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Parenting Programs Parents as Teachers Parents as Teachers is a free, in-home program for expectant mothers and parents of young children from birth to kindergarten. The program is offered in Bertie, Camden, Currituck, Gates and Pasquotank counties through Albemarle Smart Start Partnership. Families who enroll in the program receive monthly or twice monthly visits from a trained parent educator. During these visits parents are given information about child development and engage in activities appropriate to their child. These activities enhance the child’s language, intellectual, motor and emotional development. The program also includes free yearly health and development screenings and referrals to community resources. Group connections are offered throughout the year for parents to connect to one another. For more information, call (252) 333-1233 or send an e-mail to pat@albemarlessp.org.

A Parents as Teachers program is also offered on Knotts Island at Knotts Island Elementary School. For more information, call (252) 429-3327.

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Fathering is child’s play By the dads @ www.fathers.com With fathers, sensitivity in play is the best predictor of long-term attachment, even surpassing the security that a mom provides for an infant or toddler. Sensitive play is key for your child’s development. This should be easy, because play often comes naturally for dads. In other words, goofing off with your kids is a good thing. • Make time for play with your

kids. It needs to be a real priority.

• Maintain a positive tone. Give your “disciplinarian dad” character a break.

• Talk as you play. Ask open-ended questions. Get your children involved in thinking and being creative.

• Follow their lead sometimes. Watch and see what magic develops.

• Play with your kids this weekend. Play a game; build a Lego tower or a squadron of paper airplanes.

• Be physically active with your kids. Physical involvement leads to playful interaction.

• When playing with your child, put yourself on her level – on your hands and knees or even up in a tree – even if it means playing with dolls or singing songs.

• If your child wants to do the same things over and over again, just do it!

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Fatherhood resources Fathers in Focus This program, operated by the Choanoke Area Development Association, is designed to promote responsible fatherhood, strengthen families and enhance nurturing environments for children. Case management, community services, educational workshops and support services are available. The program is offered in Bertie County. For more information call (252) 332-2692

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Resource Lending Library The resource lending library operated by Albemarle Smart Start Partnership Child Care Resource and Referral offers an easy, economical way to keep young children busy and learning. Library members may check out toys, puzzles, games, books, and a variety of other items developed specifically for young children. The library also has resources for adults. Books, magazines and videos covering a range of topics relating to parenting and child development may be checked out. Annual library membership is available to families and

child care providers for a nominal fee. The resource lending library is located in the Partnership’s office in the Edgewood Center, 1403 Parkview Drive. Library hours are from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For information about area public libraries, see page 70.

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Cooperative Extension North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s Family and Consumer Education program offers parenting resources and programs. In addition, the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education programs help teens and adults learn to prepare healthy meals while stretching their food dollars. Cooperative Extension also offers programs promoting healthy diets and physical activity along with information on energy conservation, budgeting and financial management, employability skills, managing stress and other topics. Not all offices have the same programs. Here’s the contact information for area Extension offices: Bertie County 106 Dundee Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-5317 Camden County 120 NC Highway 343 N Camden, NC 27921 (252) 331-7630 Currituck County 120 Community Way Barco, NC 27917 (252) 232-2261

Gates County 112 Court Street Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 357-1400 Pasquotank County 1209 McPherson Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-3954

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Children with special needs For many parents, learning that their child has special needs can be devastating. Most families with an exceptional child come to accept and cherish their child’s uniqueness over time and soon discover that plenty of help is available. All Smart Start programs are available to children with special needs. Other services for children with special needs and their families include:

Children’s Developmental Services Agency Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA) provides evaluation and early intervention services for children with developmental delays or certain medical and neurological conditions associated with developmental delays. Children may be referred to CDSA by a physician, teacher, therapist, parent or guardian with concerns about their child’s development. Any child between birth and age 3 is eligible for an evaluation based on a developmental concern or certain medical/neurological conditions. Early Childhood Intervention services are provided for children from birth to age 3 who are eligible for the program. These services provide support and resources for both the child and the parent. Evaluation and Early Intervention service coordination are offered at no cost to families. Private insurance and Medicaid are billed. Some services are subject to sliding scale-based fees. The CDSA office in Elizabeth City serves 10 counties

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across the area and has satellite offices in Dare and Hertford counties. For more information, contact:

Children’s Developmental Services Agency 1417 Parkview Drive P.O. Box 189 Elizabeth City, NC, 27909 (252) 338-4044 and (800) 466-9264 www.beearly.nc.gov

Family Support Network For support following a diagnosis of a child’s disability, contact the Family Support Network (FSN) of Northeastern NC The network offers programs and resources to help parents navigate the maze of referrals, evaluations, Individual Education Plans (I.E.P.) and special circumstances that become part of the daily routine for families of a child with special needs.

Parent to Parent Support Program: This program offers families who have just learned their child has a special need an opportunity to talk one-on-one with a parent who has a child with a similar disability. Parent to Parent Support is available for families of children with special needs who would benefit from support from someone who has been there.

If you would like a Parent to Parent match or are interested in becoming a trained support parent, call (252) 333-1233 or send an e-mail to fsn@albemarlessp.org

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Support Group Meetings: The Family Support Network also hosts support group meetings, where parents can share their experience, hopes and fears and offer support for each other. Support groups are held monthly and serve most counties in northeastern North Carolina. For meeting times, call (252) 333-1233 or visit www.albemarlessp.org.

Advocacy: The Family Support Network staff can help parents access services, offer information about additional resources, and serve as an advocate, including attending I.E.P. meetings. Services are available to parents and service providers of a child with special needs or who is at risk for special needs.

FSN of Northeastern North Carolina Albemarle Smart Start Partnership 1403 Parkview Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 333-1233 fsn@albemarlessp.org

Family Support Network services are offered to residents of Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Gates, Hertford, Perquimans and Pasquotank counties. Families in Bertie and other North Carolina counties can learn about services in their area by logging onto www.fsnnc.org or calling (800) 852-0042.

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Preschool programs for children with special needs

Early intervention is crucial for children with special needs. In many cases, a child’s long-term well-being and success depends upon how early he or she receives services such as speech, occupational or physical therapy. Children with special needs also benefit from:

• a structured environment, • learning opportunities to enhance their strengths and

work on or conquer weaknesses, • contact with their peers of all ability levels.

In North Carolina, all 3-, 4- and pre-k 5-year-old children with disabilities are entitled to a free and appropriate public education, which is mandated through the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This includes an evaluation; a Handbook of Parents’ Rights; services provided in natural environments that are like those used by children without disabilities; an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), special education and related services (such as speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, transportation, etc.). There is also a process for appealing decisions about educational services or placement. In North Carolina, more than 15,000 children between 3 and 5 receive services through the Public School Part B preschool program. Special education services must be provided by a Birth to Kindergarten or Preschool Add-On licensed teacher. Related services must be delivered by appropriately licensed personnel.

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Services are flexible and may be provided in private schools, child care centers, family child care homes, public schools, developmental day programs, Head Start programs, state-operated programs, and university/community college-affiliated early childhood programs. Children who have been served in the infant-toddler program and who are eligible for the special needs preschool program should have a seamless transition between programs and have an Individualized Education Plan in place by their third birthday. Preschool programs for children, from age 3 until they start kindergarten, are blended with Title I, Even Start, Smart Start, and More at Four funding. More than 70 percent of the preschool children with disabilities are served in settings with their non-disabled peers. To learn more about preschool programs for exceptional children in counties served by Albemarle Smart Start Partnership, call:

Bertie County: (252) 794-2260

Camden County: (252) 335-0831

Currituck County: (252) 232-2223 or (252) 453-0010

Pasquotank County: (252) 335-2981 or (252) 335-5553

Gates County: (252) 357-3315 or (252) 465-4091

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Additional resources Governor Morehead Preschool Services for children birth to 5 who have visual impairments. P.O. Box 2346 Elizabeth City, NC 27906-2346 (252) 338-5060 www.governormorehead.net Office of Education Services Early intervention programs for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. P.O. Box 306 Hertford, NC 27944 (252) 426-1053 http://www.ncoes.net/ or www.ncpublicschools.org BEGINNINGS Education and support to empower parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. P. O. Box 17646 Raleigh, NC 27619 (919) 850-2746 or (800) 541-4327 www.ncbegin.org

Epilepsy Foundation of NC 1920 W. First Street, Suite 5541A Winston Salem, NC 27104-4220 (336) 716-2320 or (800) 451-0694 www.epilepsyfoundation.org

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Family Support Network of North Carolina UNC Chapel Hill 325 Pittsboro St. / C.B. 3550 Chapel Hill, NC 27599 (919) 966-2841 www.fsnnc.org

Greenville TEACCH Center (Autism support) 108-D West Fire Tower Road Winterville, NC 28590 (252) 830-3300 www.teacch.com

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities 1825 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 700 Washington, D.C. 20009 (800) 695-0285 www.nichcy.org

Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center 907 Barra Row, Suites 102/103 Davidson, NC 28036 (800) 962-6817 www.ecac-parentcenter.org

NC-Technical Assistance Preschool Project Campus Box 8040 The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC 27599-8040 (919)962-3801 www.fpg.unc.edu/~PFI/

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Ready for kindergarten means more than ABCs

From the North Carolina Partnership for Children

It’s never too early to start thinking about school readiness for your child. Mom’s healthy habits during the prenatal period can impact early brain development and help lay the groundwork for a healthy childhood. After birth, families can provide opportunities for their child to participate in positive early learning and development experiences. These positive experiences include:

The consistent presence of at least one caring, supportive adult

Positive interaction on a consistent basis with that caring adult

Effective, consistent and positive discipline

Opportunity to learn through exploration

Support in mastering skills at their own pace and in their own style

Exposure to developmentally appropriate toys, books and games

Opportunities to interact with other children socially.

Children who have had these early learning experiences demonstrate improved problem solving skills, motivation and academic achievement once they reach school.

How can you tell if your child is ready to be successful as he/she takes this big step? Kindergarten teachers in one

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North Carolina town ranked the skills and behaviors they believe 5-year-olds need to begin school ready to succeed.

Ninety-five percent of teachers ranked healthy, rested and well-nourished children as the number one quality of successful kindergartners.

Children should be able to verbally communicate their needs, wants and thoughts.

They need to demonstrate self help skills, such as dressing themselves.

More than half of the teachers rated the following as essential to school readiness:

Vision, hearing and dental problems are detected and addressed.

A child knows his name and has a basic awareness of self, family and community.

A child can follow basic rules and routines.

So, while letter recognition, knowledge of animals and sounds, big and little, up and down, are important to know, it is more important that your child is socially,

emotionally, and physically ready to tackle the pressures of school.

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Preschool programs to help prepare children for school

Quality child care centers, family child care homes, preschool programs offered by churches and other agencies, along with caring adults who spend time with young children help prepare children for kindergarten. In addition, these federal and state programs are designed to prepare low income and at-risk children for school success.

Head Start

Head Start is a federally funded, comprehensive preschool program designed to meet the emotional, social, health, nutritional, and psychological needs of children aged 3 to 5 and their families. Children are provided breakfast, lunch and a snack, and receive free medical and dental care. Services are also provided to meet the special needs of children with disabilities. Eligibility for this free program is based on income and other factors. Head Start programs in Camden, Currituck, Gates and Pasquotank counties are administered by the Economic Improvement Council, Inc., 712 Virginia Road, Edenton. For more information, call (252) 482-4495. Head Start programs in Bertie County are administered by the Choanoke Area Development Association, Inc., 120 Sessoms Drive, Rich Square. For more information, call (252) 539-4155.

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NC-PreK NC-PreK is a free, state-funded, voluntary pre-kindergarten program designed to prepare at-risk 4-year-olds for success in school. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, numbers, physical and fine-motor development and problem solving. This program serves children who are four years old by August 31 of each program year and will be entering kindergarten the following year. Factors that put children at risk for poor school outcomes include low income, limited English, identified disability, chronic health conditions and developmental or educational need. Children of active duty military families are also eligible. Priority is given to children not served in other child care programs.

Title I Preschool Programs

Title I Preschools are offered through county school systems to help prepare young children for school. Most North Carolina Title I Preschools serve 4 year olds only. Programs follow the school calendar and school day, and are staffed with both a licensed teacher and a teacher assistant. The learning experiences offered in a Title I Preschool promote growth in all developmental domains, including language, literacy, math, physical, emotional, and social development. Contact your county’s school system for more information about NC-PreK and Title I Preschool programs.

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Contact information for schools

Bertie County Schools 222 County Farm Road Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-3173 www.bertie.k12.nc.us Camden County Schools 174 North 343 Camden, NC 27921 (252) 335-0831 www.camden.k12.nc.us Currituck County Schools 2958 Caratoke Highway Currituck, NC 27929 (252) 232-2223 www.currituck.k12.nc.us

Gates County Schools 205 Main Street Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 357-1113 http://coserver.gates.k12.nc.us/gatescounty Elizabeth City/ Pasquotank County Schools 1200 Halstead Blvd. Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-2981 www.ecpps.k12.nc.us

Considering home schooling? Visit the NC Division of Non-Public Education -- www.ncdnpe.org, and the North Carolinians for Home Education site, www.nche.com. Locally, the Albemarle Homeschool Support League offers group activities. For more information, visit www.ahsl.org.

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Steps for a successful transition to kindergarten

Visit the school your child will attend months before the actual start of classes. Spend time looking at books in the media center and playing on the playground, too!

Ask for a school calendar so you can familiarize yourself and your child with school hours and holiday schedule. Talk to school personnel about what an average kindergarten day includes.

Participate in kindergarten orientation and registration. These often occur in the fall or spring before a child is expected to enter kindergarten. This is a great way to ask questions and meet other parents going through the same transitions.

Gather the required forms needed for kindergarten registration. These include: your child’s birth certificate, proof of residence, completed kindergarten health assessment and immunization record, and, if needed, custody papers.

Talk about the transition to kindergarten as a positive step in your child’s development. Parents that exhibit a positive attitude about kindergarten help lessen some of the anxiety your child will probably feel.

Check out children’s books about kindergarten from your local library and read them at home.

When you let go of your child’s hand on the first day of school, don’t let her see you cry!

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Community assistance

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Help in a crisis If you find yourself in a crisis or difficult situation you can’t deal with alone, the following agencies may be able to help:

Albemarle Crisis Center This agency offers pregnancy testing, education and counseling, along with assistance with maternity and baby needs. Teens are offered assistance with family, school and decision making. For more information, contact:

Albemarle Crisis Pregnancy Center 420 North Hughes Boulevard Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-1655 www.albemarlecpc.org

Albemarle Hopeline This agency serves victims of family violence, sexual assault and teen dating violence in Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Gates, Perquimans and Pasquotank counties. Hopeline offers free individual and group counseling, emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis counseling telephone line, educational programs, courtroom advocacy and volunteer training. In an emergency, call 911. For information, contact:

Albemarle Hopeline P.O. Box 2064 Elizabeth City, NC 27906-2064 Office: (252)338-5338 or (252) 338-1646 Currituck Office: (252) 453-8116 24-hour Crisis Line: (252) 338-3011 www.albemarlehopeline.org

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In Bertie County, call the sheriff’s department at (252) 794-5330 for information about shelters and other assistance to victims of family violence. Kids First Kids First offers treatment services for children who have been abused and neglected, at no charge to families. Services include therapy, support services for non-offending caregivers, prevention education and training for professionals who work with children. For more information, contact:

Kids First 808 W. Ehringhaus Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-5658 www.kidsfirstcac.net

The Salvation Army The Salvation Army provides food and clothing to families and individuals in need, and some assistance with utility bills. After a fire or other catastrophe, the Salvation Army provides clothing and furniture. In addition, the Salvation Army hosts an Angel Tree Christmas program which provides gifts for children from families in need. Referrals are accepted from the department of social services, or parents may contact the Salvation Army directly.

The Salvation Army 602 N. Hughes Boulevard Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-4129

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The American Red Cross The American Red Cross provides food, clothing and shelter to families after a fire, and greatly expands its services after a natural disaster. In addition, classes are offered in disaster preparation classes, CPR and First Aid, lifeguarding and babysitting. For more information, contact: The American Red Cross 905 Halstead Boulevard Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-2185 New Beginnings Homeless Shelter New Beginnings is a male only shelter that sleeps seven. For more information, visit the shelter at 112 Herrington Road in Elizabeth City. Tabernacle of Faith Shelter Tabernacle of Faith is an outreach shelter and women. The shelter is located at 515 S. Road Street in Elizabeth City, or call (252) 331-1397.

Did you know exposing children to domestic violence is child abuse? Learn how to end it.

Call Albemarle Hopeline’s office, (252) 338-5338, or 24-hour crisis line, (252) 338-3011.

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County Departments of Social Services

The North Carolina Division of Social Services, a part of the N. C. Department of Health and Human Services, serves each of North Carolina’s 100 counties through a local department of social services office. The Division of Social Services offers programs and benefits to North Carolina residents who meet certain eligibility requirements.

The following programs offer assistance to families:

Medicaid: Medicaid offers families with children younger than 18 access to health care services, provided they meet certain eligibility requirements. Families enrolled in the program may seek health care from public and private health care providers at a nominal cost.

Health Choice for Children: Families who make too much money to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford rising health insurance premiums are able to get free or reduced-price comprehensive health care for their children.

Child Care Subsidy: Child care subsidy helps parents afford child care by providing subsidized child care services to eligible families through a voucher system. The program helps eligible parents pay for the same quality of child care available to others in the community.

Energy Assistance: Several programs provide assistance to low-income households, including heating and air conditioning repair and replacement, along with help with weatherization. In an emergency, there may be a one-time cash payment to help eligible families pay their heating bills.

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Food and Nutrition Services: Formerly known as food stamps, this program helps eligible low-income households buy the food they need for a nutritionally adequate diet.

Work First Cash Assistance: Work First is North Carolina’s Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program. Eligible parents and certain relatives of children younger than 18 may receive cash assistance and employment services.

Adoption Services: Children needing homes are matched with families wanting to adopt. Adoptive parents receive assistance and support, which may include financial assistance.

Child Placement Services: Child Placement Services provides temporary homes for children in DSS custody; supervises children in foster care; offers counseling and support to keep families intact when possible, and recruits, screens and trains foster parents.

Child Protective Services: Child Protective Services strives to ensure safe, permanent, nurturing families for children by protecting them from abuse and neglect while attempting to preserve the family unit.

Before visiting social services, it’s a good idea to call and find out what documents you need to bring, and find out if an appointment is necessary

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Contact information for county department of social services

Bertie County 110 Jasper Bazemore Ave.

P.O. Box 627 Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-5320 Camden County 117 NC 343 North P.O. Box 70 Camden, NC 27921 (252) 331-4787

Currituck County 2793 Caratoke Highway Currituck, NC 27929 (252) 232-3083

Gates County 122 Main Street P.O. Box 185 Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 357-0075

Pasquotank County 709 Roanoke Avenue Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-2126

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Food Bank of the Albemarle When money is tight, many people decide that to keep the lights on and the rent paid, they’re forced to skimp on groceries. If you find yourself in that situation, you’re not alone. In northeastern North Carolina, one in every five people lives in poverty, which is 5 to 10 percent higher than the national average.

Nearly everyone falls into hard times at some point, but no matter what your circumstances, your family doesn’t have to go hungry.

The Food Bank operates a food pantry, which provides food, advocacy and referrals to qualified individuals. Recipients are also given assistance in advocating for themselves with other agencies. A demonstration garden is on site to show different methods of gardening and to supply clients with fresh produce.

Most of the Food Bank’s food pantries require that you bring a driver’s license or other form of identification with a valid address. If a valid address is not shown on the identification, bring a copy of a utility bill or other document that shows your address.

For more information about the Food Bank, call (252) 335-4035 or visit www.afoodbank.org.

Below are locations of area food pantries, which may also offer other types of assistance. Programs are only open specific hours and days of the week. Please call to find out the times for each location.

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Food pantries Bertie County All God’s Children UMC 1144 Hexelena Rd Aulander, NC 27805 (252) 345-1077 Askewville Community Food Pantry 101 Askewville Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-3830 Good Shepherd Food Pantry 1008 King Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-3478 Hazel Privott Community Outreach 1324 NC Highway 11 S Aulander, NC 27805 (252) 345-0859 Lewiston-Woodville Resource Center 108 S Main Street Lewiston-Woodville, NC 27849 (252) 794-5640 or 348-2010 Metropolitan Church of God 112 W Main Street Aulander, NC 27805 (252) 398-6711 Mt. Ararat Baptist Church Food Pantry 305 Cowtrack Road Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 348-2844

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Mt Olive Baptist Church Food Pantry 2246 Governors Road Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 348-2644 Saint John’s 2nd Baptist Church 948 NC Highway 561 W Aulander, NC 27805 (757)471-2798 St Luke’s Missionary Baptist Church 102 St Luke Church Rd Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-5192 Camden County Camden Food Pantry 197 S. Highway 343 Camden, NC 27921 (252) 335-3775 Mobile Food Pantry South Mills 1389 NC Highway 343 N South Mills, NC 27976 (252) 335-5667 Mt Zion Church of God in Christ 118 Highway 343 S Camden, NC 27921 (252) 267-3197 New Sawyers Creek Baptist Church 312 Sleepy Hollow Rd Camden, NC 27921 (252) 336-4378

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Northeastern Community Development Corporation 154 Highway 158 E Camden, NC 27921 (252) 338-5466 Currituck County Animal Lovers Association League 204 Airport Rd. Maple, NC 27956 (252) 457-0011 Brothers Keepers of the Albemarle 570 Caratoke Hwy Moyock, NC 27958 (252) 435-2540 Fellowship Baptist Church Food Pantry 102 Moyock Commons Dr. Moyock, NC 27958 (252) 435-6453 Lower Currituck Food Pantry 6480 Caratoke Highway Grandy, NC 27939 (252) 457-1315 Pilmoor Memorial Food Pantry 192 Court House Road Currituck, NC 27929 (252) 232-2136 Gates County Ballard’s Grove Baptist Church 730 Highway 137 Eure, NC 27935 (252) 642-4070

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Damascus Road Worship Center 739 Highway 173 Eure, NC 27935 (252) 357-0321 Gates Emergency Ministries 252 Highway 32 South Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 337-6599 Mobile Food Pantry Gates Co. 205 Main Street Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 333-881 Pasquotank County Albemarle Food Pantry 109 Tidewater Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27906 (252) 335-4035 Albemarle Hopeline 1802 W Ehringhaus St Elizabeth City, NC 27909 Tel: 252-338-5338 Albemarle Resource Center 400 East Elizabeth Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 333-1202 Albemarle Teen Challenge 203 West Main Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-8363

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American Red Cross 1409B Parkview Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-2185 Animal Shelter Pasquotank-Camden 100 Wilson Street Elizabeth City, NC 27906 (252) 338-5222 Central Elementary School 1059 Highway 17 South Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 337-6616 Church of God of Prophecy 788 Trinkaloe Road Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 331-7608 Daybreak Adult Daycare 1407 Parkview Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-4375 Father Unity Ministry 620 Crooked Run Road Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (757) 472-2501 First Baptist Church 300 East Main Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-3904

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Foreshadow Academy 1459 Weeksville Rd Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 370-0413 Girls Inc of the Albemarle 304 S Road Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-7346 JC Sawyer Elementary School 1007 Park Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 339-4518 New Beginnings Solid Foundation 1112 Herrington Rd Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 267-6348 Newbegun UMC Food Pantry 2119 Nixonton Road Weeksville, NC 27909 (252) 334-7364 Northeast Coalition to End Homelessness 508 S Road Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 202-8115 or 335-7901 Northside Elementary School 1062 Northside Rd Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 339-4518

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Pasquotank Elementary School 1407 Peartree Rd Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 339-4518 PW Moore Elementary School 606 Roanoke Ave Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-2981 River City CDC 303 W Ehringhaus Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 331-2925 Salvation Army 602 North Hughes Boulevard Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-4129 Samuel Chapel Outreach 1146 Trinkaloe Road Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-6504 Sheep Harney Elementary School 200 W Elizabeth Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 339-5418 St. Stephen Soup Kitchen 513 W Cypress Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-5003 or 338-6825

Want to help? Call the Food Bank, (252) 335-4035, to donate or volunteer.

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Housing Assistance The following agencies offer housing assistance, which may include public housing, low-income rental assistance, housing counseling, weatherization programs and assistance to those who live in substandard housing.

Choanoke Area Development Corporation CADA Community Services Center (Bertie County) P.O. Box 570 1001 S. King Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-3107

Economic Improvement Council Inc. (EIC) 712 Virginia Road P.O. Box 549 Edenton, NC 27932 Phone: (252) 482-4495 In Camden County, call (252) 338-7720; in Currituck County, call (252) 232-2882 and in Pasquotank and Gates counties, call (252) 335-5493.

Elizabeth City Housing Authority P.O. Box 1485 440 Hariot Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-5411

Northeastern Community Development Corporation P.O. Box 367 154 U.S. Highway 158 East Camden, NC 27921 (252) 338-5466

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Need help finding a job? The Northeast Workforce Development Board oversees the JobLink Career Centers in 10 northeastern North Carolina counties, including Camden, Currituck, Pasquotank and Gates.

The JobLink system provides services to employers and job seekers. Services for job seekers include employment and training services, including basic job keeping skills, help with improving basic education skills and occupational skills training. Job search and job placement assistance services are also available.

North Carolina Employment Security Commission Provides job referral and placement, counseling, services for veterans, unemployment insurance and other services. The center also has a career resource room. Employment Security Commission / JobLink 422 McArthur Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 331-4798 Choanoke Area Development Association / JobLink 1001 S. King Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-5616

Employment Security Commission 300 N Virginia Road Edenton, NC 27932 (252) 482-2195

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Employment Security Commission Jobs Line: Call Tuesday-Saturday (800) 768-5627

Find a job online: www.ncesc.com

Computers for job searches are available at all JobLink Centers and Employment Security Commission offices. Local libraries also have

computers, where patrons may access the Internet.

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Educational opportunities Northeastern North Carolina has many educational opportunities for adults, from basic skills, G.E.D. and adult high school programs through College of the Albemarle and Martin Community College, to four-year degree programs and beyond through Elizabeth City State University.

College of The Albemarle P.O. Box 2327 1208 North Road Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909-2327 (252) 335-0821 www.albemarle.edu

Elizabeth City State University 1704 Weeksville Road Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-3400 www.ecsu.edu

Martin Community College, Bertie Campus P.O. Box 35 409 W. Granville Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-4861 www.martincc.edu

Mid-Atlantic Christian University 715 N. Poindexter Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 334-2000 www.macuniversity.edu

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Child support and legal assistance

Child Support Enforcement Child Support Enforcement assists in establishing child support orders and collecting child support. For more information, customer service, voice response assistance and location information contact: NC Child Support Enforcement (800) 992-9457 or visit www.ncdhhs.gov/dss/cse Legal Services of Coastal Plains P.O. Box 564 610 East Church Street Ahoskie, NC 27910 (800) 682-0010 NC Lawyer Referral Service – (800) 662-7660

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Albemarle Regional Health Services

Albemarle Regional Health Services, which provides public health services to Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Gates, Perquimans and Pasquotank counties, has a variety of programs to help families and children access medical care. Below is a partial list of services available. Before you go, call your county health department for clinic hours, to find out if an appointment is necessary, and what documents, if any, you should bring with you.

Immunizations: Immunizations are provided to children and adults to prevent communicable diseases such as polio, flu, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, and hepatitis. Many vaccines are free to children under 19 years of age.

Child Health Services: Primary child health services are provided to detect problems so that appropriate interventions can begin as early as possible. Health services for children include:

Pediatric Primary Care: Pediatric Primary Care, provided by a physician, is available in some counties.

Child Service Coordination: This program focuses on the total well-being of the child. Local agencies work as a team to insure that the optimal level of care for each child is achieved.

Health Check: This program is designed to guarantee that Medicaid-eligible children receive all recommended child health services.

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Dental Health: Dental screenings, education and treatment are offered to children, birth through age 21, who have been referred by a school, parent or medical professional.

Albemarle Pediatric Asthma Coalition: Services provided by a registered nurse who is a pediatric asthma care manager. Comprehensive education and care are offered to children or adolescents with asthma and their families.

Children’s Developmental Services Agency: Provides services for children between birth and age 5 who may have special needs. (252) 338-4044.

WIC/Nutrition: Women, Infants and Children is a nutrition education and food supplement program for children birth to age 5, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. For more information, call (252) 338-4446.

Women’s Preventive Health: Women’s Health Services helps women choose the number and spacing of children and maintain optimal reproductive health. The most current contraceptive technology is provided.

Maternal Health: Prenatal Health Care Services are provided to reduce infant mortality and ensure that all pregnant women receive the highest level of heath care. Patients receive nutrition education, medical and social work intervention, and childbirth preparation and parenting education. Albemarle Regional Health Services also offers a High Risk Perinatal Clinic and Maternity Care Coordination.

Albemarle Regional Diabetes Care Program: The Diabetes Self Management Training program is for individuals living with diabetes and their families. Individualized counseling, nutrition education, disease management, and evaluation

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are offered. The center is in Elizabeth City and serves patients from throughout ARHS’s region of care.

Adult Health: Comprehensive physical assessment and clinical services are provided for all adults to detect and prevent chronic diseases.

Bertie County Health Department 102 Rhodes Avenue Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-5322

Camden County Health Department Camden Medical Park - Building B 160 U.S. 158 East Camden, NC 27921 (252) 338-4460

Currituck County Health Department 2795 Caratoke Highway Currituck, NC 27929 (252) 232-2271

Gates County Health Department 29 Medical Center Road Gates, NC 27937 (252) 357-1380 Pasquotank County Health Department 711 Roanoke Avenue Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 338-4400

Check your local phone book to contact private health care professionals.

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Mental Health Care Services East Carolina Behavioral Health LME serves 19 counties in northeastern North Carolina and can help with mental health, developmental disabilities and substance abuse services. Evaluations, counseling and assistance accessing other mental health, developmental disabilities and substance abuse services, including referrals, are among the services provided. East Carolina Behavioral Health works in partnership with people who face significant challenges related to substance abuse, mental illness, and/or developmental disability. Contact information can be found on line at http://www.ecbhlme.org/ or by calling 1-877-685-2415. Alcoholics Anonymous Call (252) 338-1849 or (800) 350-2538 for contact information and meeting schedules or visit http://www.aanortheasternnc.org Information about Ala-non Family Groups may also be available by calling the above numbers. Narcotics Anonymous: Contact the Carolina Region of Narcotics Anonymous at (888) 370-6262 or visit www.crna.org. Need help for a mental health issue now? Call 911, the emergency number for your county’s mental health center, or go to your local

hospital’s emergency room.

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AREA HOSPITALS Albemarle Health (a Vidant Health Partner) 1144 North Road Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-0531 www.albemarlehealth.org

Vidant Bertie Hospital 1403 South King Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-6600 www.vidanthealth.com

Chesapeake Regional Medical Center 736 Battlefield Boulevard North Chesapeake, VA 23320 (757) 312-8121 www.chesapeakeregional.com

Vidant Chowan Hospital 211 Virginia Road Edenton, NC 27932 (252) 482-8451 www.vidanthealth.com Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters 601 Children’s Lane Norfolk, VA 23507 (757) 668-7000 www.chkd.org

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Martin General Hospital 310 S McCaskey Road Williamston, NC 27892 252-809-6300 www.martingeneral.com Vidant Medical Center 2100 Stantonsburg Road Greenville, NC 27835 (252) 847-4100 www.vidanthealth.com

Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital 500 Academy Street Ahoskie, NC 27910 (252) 209-3000 www.vidanthealth.com Sentara Healthcare Mailing Address: 6015 Poplar Hall Drive Norfolk, VA 23502 (800) 736-8272 www.sentara.com The Outer Banks Hospital 4800 S. Croatan Highway Nags Head, NC 27959 252-449-4500 or (toll free) 877-359-9179

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Other health care resources Bertie County Rural Health Association provides health care services and offers financial assistance for patients who have been pre-approved. Call for days and hours of operation. Bertie County Rural Health Association is next to Bertie Memorial Hospital.

Bertie County Rural Health Association 104 Rhodes Avenue Windsor, NC, 27983 (252) 794-3042

Vidant Family Medicine Located inside Bertie Memorial Hospital, Vidant Family Medicine offers family medical services for patients from birth through senior citizens, and offers some financial assistance.

1403 S. King Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-6775

Gateway Community Health Center Gateway Community Health Center provides primary care services for all ages. Medical specialists through Albemarle Health and laboratory services and x-rays are also available.

Gates County Medical Center 501 Main Street Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 357-1226

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Community Care Clinic The Elizabeth City Community Care Clinic, in partnership with Albemarle Health, offers primary care and prescription assistance to people who cannot afford or do not quality for other programs. Community Care Clinic 918 Greenleaf Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 384-4733

ECSU Drug Information Center Licensed pharmacists and fourth-year pharmacy students can answer questions about side effects and drug interactions of prescription medications. Free general health consultations are also available with a pharmacist. ECSU Drug Information Center 122 Pharmacy Complex 1704 Weeksville Rd Elizabeth City, NC 27909 24 hour appointment line (252) 335-2449

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Visited your library lately? The Albemarle region’s public libraries offer books and much more to area families. Local libraries also offer video and DVD rentals, books on tape and CD, music CD’s, internet access computers for educational and information use, and word processing computers. Libraries usually offer programs for toddlers and preschoolers, along with summer reading programs for school-age children.

Currituck County Public Libraries 4261 Caratoke Highway 1123 Ocean Trail Barco, NC 27917 Corolla, NC 27927 (252) 453-8345 (252) 453-0496 126 Campus Drive Moyock, NC 27958 (252) 435-0680 Gates County Public Library 115 Court Street Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 357-0110

Lawrence Memorial Public Library 204 E. Dundee Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-2244

Pasquotank-Camden Public Library 100 E. Colonial Avenue Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-2473

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Gear up for an adventure Everyone needs a little adventure, especially young children. Here are some family friendly places to visit for fun and learning. For residents of northeastern North Carolina, most aren’t too far from home. But before you pack up to go, make a call or visit your destination’s Web site to find out about days and hours of operation, along with admission fees and other information. Here’s a partial listing of fun sites in and around the Albemarle Region:

Bertie County Attractions

Livermon Recreational Park and Mini-Zoo 102 N. York Street, Windsor. Park, playground and petting zoo. (252) 794-5553

Cashie Wetlands Walk 101 York St. - across from Livermon Park, York Street, Windsor. An 1,800-foot handicapped accessible walkway to the Cashie River with a fishing pier. (252) 794-5553

Historic Hope Plantation Four miles west of Windsor, 132 Hope House Road. Restored home of former North Carolina Governor David Stone (1770-1818). Admission fee. (252) 794-3140; www.hopeplantation.org.

Roanoke/Cashie River Center 112 W. Water Street, Windsor, near the junction of U.S. 17 Business and King Street. Interprets the natural and cultural history of the lower Roanoke River area. (252) 794-2001; www.partnershipforthesounds.org

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Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge Five different tracts of land along 70 miles of the Roanoke River; two satellite tracts in other river basins. Informal trail systems, including the Charles Kuralt Trail; some trails are only accessible by boat. Wildlife observation areas available seasonally. www.fws.gov/roanokeriver/

Camden County Attractions

Camden County Heritage Museum 117 N. NC 343, Camden. Former Camden County jail, circa 1910; restored cells open to the public, changing exhibits. (252) 771-8333.

Dismal Swamp State Park Begins near the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center off U.S. 17. Boardwalk and hiking/biking trails (252) 771-8333. http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/disw/main.php

Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center 2356 U.S. 17 N. and on the Dismal Swamp Canal in South Mills. Boardwalk, boat slips, picnic tables, rest rooms. Center offers gift shop, information about the region and educational displays. (252) 771-8333 www.dismalswamp.com

Currituck County Attractions

Currituck Outer Banks NC 12 north of Duck. Miles of beach, some accessible by four-wheel drive only. Visit the Corolla wild horses that live on the northern Outer Banks. www.corollawildhorses.com; www.currituckchamber.com.

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Currituck Heritage Park NC 12 in Corolla. Whalehead Club, with tours available year-round (fee), the Currituck Beach Lighthouse (fee), boat ramp, pedestrian

footbridge, picnic tables and a gazebo overlooking Currituck Sound. www.whaleheadclub.com; www.currituckbeachlight.com.

Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education Corolla, between the historic Whalehead Club and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Exhibit hall, auditorium and waterfowl decoy gallery; educational programs and activities. (252) 453-0221; www.ncwildlife.org.

Gates County Attractions

Merchants Millpond State Park U.S. 158 between Sunbury and Gatesville. Park is home to towering bald cypress trees with massive trunks and hanging growths of Spanish moss. Canoe rentals, educational programs, fishing, picnic areas and camping. 176 Millpond Rd., Gatesville, NC (252) 357-1191 www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/memi/main.php

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Elizabeth City/Pasquotank County Attractions Museum of the Albemarle 501 S. Water Street, Elizabeth City. Showcases the history of the Albemarle Region. (252) 335-1453; www.museumofthealbemarle.com Port Discover 611 East Main Street, Elizabeth City. Exhibits, activities and interactive experiences. (252) 338-6117; www.portdiscover.org. Downtown Waterfront Market South Water Street, Elizabeth City. Locally grown produce, arts, crafts and music. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, May through October (252) 338-0169 www.downtownwaterfrontmarket.com Elizabeth City State University Planetarium 1704 Weeksville Road, Elizabeth City. Open to the public 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Evening hours and shows during special occasions. Shows are free; registration is required. (252) 335-3759; www.ecsuplanetarium.org.

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Recreation Centers Albemarle Family YMCA The Albemarle YMCA offers a fitness center, exercise studios and an indoor pool, along with a ChildWatch Center, a play zone, a family activity center, and summer camps and year-round programs for children.

1240 N. Road Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 334-9622

Bertie County YMCA The Bertie County YMCA offers sports programs, health and wellness programs and activities.

1102 N. King Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-9622

County Parks and Recreation Most county parks and recreation departments offer sports programs, activities for children and adults, and maintain county parks. Although Gates County doesn’t currently have a parks and recreation department, it does have a community center that offers recreational activities.

Bertie County Parks and Recreation 101 W. School Street Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-5363 http://www.co.bertie.nc.us/

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Camden County Parks and Recreation 117 North NC 343 Camden, NC 27921 (252) 338-1919 ext. 239 http://www.camdencountync.gov/ Currituck County Parks and Recreation 130 Community Way Barco, NC 27917 (252) 232-3007 http://www.co.currituck.nc.us/ Elizabeth City Parks and Recreation 200 E. Ward Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 335-1424 http://www.cityofec.com Pasquotank County Parks and Recreation 983 Simpson Ditch Rd Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252) 337-6600 http://www.co.pasquotank.nc.us/ Gates County Community Center 130 West 158 Gatesville, NC 27938 (252) 357-0677

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Outer Banks Attractions The North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island www.ncaquariums.com (800) 832-3474 374 Airport Road in Manteo. Programs and activities year-round. Admission fee Roanoke Island Festival Park www.roanokeisland.com (252) 475-1500 Manteo’s downtown waterfront. The Elizabeth II, a 16th-century representative sailing ship, interactive history exhibits, special performances. Admission fee. Jockey’s Ridge State Park www.jockeysridgestatepark.com (252) 441-2588 U.S. 158, milepost 12.5, Nags Head. Largest natural living sand dune on the East Coast. Hang gliding, kite flying, hiking, museum, picnic facilities and programs. Wright Brothers National Memorial www.nps.gov/wrbr (252) 473-2111 Milepost 7.5, U.S. Highway 158, Kill Devil Hills. Sixty-foot granite memorial stands atop a 90-foot dune paying tribute to the first successful manned, powered flights.

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Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education www.ncwildlife.org (252) 453-0221 In Corolla between the Whalehead Club and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Exhibit hall, auditorium and waterfowl decoy gallery, educational programs and activities. Cape Hatteras National Seashore www.nps.gov/caha/ (252) 473-2111 1401 National Park Drive in Manteo. Beaches, lighthouses and water sports. Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center www.nativeamericanmuseum.org (252) 995-4440 Hwy 12, Village of Frisco Nationally recognized collection of Native American artifacts. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site National Park Service www.nps.gov/fora/ (252) 473-5772 P.O. Box 675; off of Hwy 64 on Roanoke Island in Manteo. Protects and preserves known portions of England's first New World settlements from 1584 to 1590.

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Hampton Roads Attractions

Virginia Air & Space Center 600 Settlers Landing Road in Hampton. Exhibits and activities, a five-story IMAX theater. (757) 727-0900; www.vasc.org.

Children’s Museum of Virginia, Portsmouth 221 High Street, Portsmouth. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium. (757) 393-5258; www.childrensmuseumva.com

Nauticus Maritime Center Exhibits, interactive activities, exotic aquarium life, touch pools and shark petting. The USS Wisconsin is berthed next to Nauticus and is open for main deck tours.

One Waterside Drive, Norfolk, VA

(800) 664-1080; www.nauticus.org.

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach. Aquariums, live animal habitats, touch tanks, hands-on exhibits, an aviary and more. Dolphin and whale watching trips. (757) 385-FISH (3474); www.virginiaaquarium.com.

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The Virginia Zoological Park 3500 Granby Street in Norfolk. Creatures from around the world, programs for young children through senior citizens. (757) 441-2374; www.virginiazoo.org.

To learn more about good places for family outings, talk with friends and neighbors, surf the Web and check your

local newspaper’s calendar of events section.

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Albemarle Smart Start Partnership

1403 Parkview Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27909

252- 333-1233

800-262-8314 (toll free) 252-333-1201 (fax)

www.albemarlessp.org

www.facebook.com/albemarlesmartstart