Head Start students learn about water safety
Parents were invited to join their children in an end-of-the-year event held May 20 at Marion County Head Start, 203 S. Third, Marion.
With summer drawing near, they learned many aspects of water safety.
Instructor Jane O'Connor said the whole event was triggered by a gift of life jackets from Marion County Health Department.
"We based the event around it," she said.
Sondra Mayfield, coordinator of Marion County Safe Kids chapter, said she and Margo Kinman distributed 28 life jackets. The jackets were provided through a grant. Kids' safety kits also were distributed.
Neal Whitaker, park ranger at Marion Reservoir, brought a jet ski, and a teacher brought a boat.. The kids had fun sitting in them and steering.
Whitaker also provided coloring books and led kids in songs about water safety.
Outside games were provided by Head Start, followed by an inside sack lunch, due to hot weather.
The children were provided with drawstring bags with which to carry home the items they received during the special event.
