Young Children: Priority One is the ongoing service program of Kiwanis International, addressing the needs of children prenatal through age five. All clubs are urged to carry out at least two projects each year—one addressing a local children’s need and one supporting the Worldwide Service Project to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders.

Projects to help young children may address:
Maternal and Infant Health – Projects include immunizations, lead-poisoning prevention, and educating future mothers about the dangers of smoking or drinking while pregnant.

Child Care and Development – Clubs can support projects like literacy development and Reading is Fundamental, support of childcare and Head Start centers, playground improvement or construction, educational play, and inter generational programs.

Program Education and Support – This includes parenting fairs and education programs, prevention of shaken baby syndrome, play day programs, and support of Parents Anonymous.

Safety and Pediatric Trauma – Projects range from support of pediatric trauma centers and Children’s Miracle Network hospitals to distribution of the home-safety checklists and prevention of scald burns.

Awards
Kiwanis International provides a Young Children: Priority One award banner patch.

Downloadable YCPO Resources