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A Special Anniversary For Children

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 5, 2008

Twenty-five years ago, several advocates for children huddled at the University of South Florida to discuss how to better help children with special needs early on, when nurturing and stimulation are so critical.

The discussions, led by Luanne Panacek of USF and Donna Glausser of Head Start, resulted in the creation of the Early Childhood Council of Hillsborough County, which brings together 40 social service agencies to address the physical, social and emotional health of youngsters.

These children - some disabled - face daunting odds. They command little political influence.

But the council gives voice to their needs and strives to find pragmatic ways to help them.

Funded by the Children's Board, which Panacek heads, the council partners with the school district and other public and private groups to provide services needed by the children and their parents.

For instance, it provides free screenings to detect development problems, which enable a child to get help before problems become acute. The state Department of Education has recognized the screenings as a "best practice." The council helps train workers who care for children with special needs.

By identifying - and addressing - problems early, the Early Childhood Council is giving children the best chance to succeed.

The Early Childhood Council's labors usually go unrecognized, but its anniversary provides a reminder of the importance of giving all children the tools they need to overcome the obstacles they face in life.

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