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Mayor Mathews to Proclaim April 12-17 “Week of the Young Child”

(Kennesaw, GA) — The Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History is marking the national Week of the Young Child this year with weeklong activities, crafts, games and stories. To mark the occasion, the city of Kennesaw is proclaiming April 12-17 the Week of the Young Child in the city.

Mayor Mark Mathews will proclaim the event at the regular meeting on Monday, April 5, which will be attended by Judy Parker. Parker is the early childhood educator at the Museum. “It's very exciting,” Parker said. “Early education is important in development and success in later life, and the Museum has been dedicated to that, with the development of our programs like Mommy & Me and Make It & Take It.” Parker stated that she is encouraged that Mayor Mathews and the City are commemorating the occasion in such a big way.

“I can't wait to see our area children out at the Museum,” she said. “There are different activities going on daily, plus it's a great reason for families to come out and see the Museum on their own as well.”

The proclamation will be made at the 6:30 PM Council meeting in the City Hall Council Chambers, and Parker herself will be on hand for the occasion.

During the Week of the Young Child, the first child age eight or younger in a family gets in free, while all subsequent children (eight or younger) in the same group receive half-priced admission. “It's going to be a lot of fun,” Parker stated. “With different activities and surprises going on every day, the Southern Museum will definitely be the destination of choice for children ages eight and younger, and their caregivers!”

A Smithsonian Institution affiliate, the Southern Museum features collections of rare Civil War weapons, uniforms and other personal items; an exciting exhibit about The Great Locomotive Chase, including a short movie; and a full-scale replica of a locomotive factory that helped rebuild the South after the war. The Museum is also home to the Jolley Education Center, with 8,000 square feet dedicated to the education and entertainment of young children. The Education Center offers interactive stations, including an authentic telegraph, diesel train simulator and a replica village of 19th century downtown Kennesaw. It also features an adjacent preschool playroom with train sets, books, puzzles, Legos and a climb-on train. The Southern Museum is located 20 miles north of Atlanta, off I-75 at exit 273. Admission is $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors, $5.50 for children ages three through 12 and free children two and under.