TIFTON, GA — Tift County Schools, in partnership with Southwell and Affinity Pediatrics, is excited to announce a collaborative effort designed to support early literacy and child development for the youngest learners in the community.
As part of the initiative, families attending one-year-old wellness checkups at Affinity Pediatrics will receive special literacy and development packets that include a children’s book along with a developmental card filled with helpful parent tips and activities that encourage learning at home.
Tift County Schools has created developmental milestone cards for every age group from birth through five years old. These cards provide families with valuable information about child development, important milestones, and practical ways to support growth, learning, and school readiness during the early years.
“We know that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers,” said Carla Hall, Southwell's Director of Medical Clinics. “By providing families with simple tools, books, and developmental resources early in a child’s life, we can help create strong foundations for literacy, learning, and overall development. We are proud to partner with Tift County Schools to support children and families in our community.”
Superintendent Natalie Gore said the partnership reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to supporting children long before they enter a classroom.
“At Tift County Schools, we believe learning begins at birth,” Gore said. “This partnership allows us to connect with families early and provide meaningful resources that help children develop the foundational skills needed for future success. We are grateful for the collaboration with Southwell and Affinity Pediatrics as we work together to support our youngest learners and their families.”
This initiative is part of Tift County Schools’ continued focus on early literacy, family engagement, and preparing children for lifelong success. Through partnerships with families and community organizations, the district remains committed to ensuring every child has opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive from the very beginning.
For more information about Tift County Schools’ Birth to Five initiatives and early literacy resources, visit https://www.tiftschools.com/page/early-literacy