At the Greater Ridgecrest YMCA’s Early Learning Readiness program, learning comes to life through creativity, exploration and play. Recently, our young learners rolled up their sleeves and dove into a hands-on literacy activity, practicing letter formation using shaving cream. With big smiles and curious minds, children traced letters with their fingers, strengthening early writing skills while engaging their senses in a fun and memorable way.
Sensory-based learning activities, such as writing in shaving cream, play a key role in supporting early literacy and development. By combining touch, movement and visual cues, children are better able to recognize letters, understand shapes and build muscle memory needed for writing. Sensory play also helps strengthen fine motor skills, improves focus and encourages problem-solving, all while allowing children to express themselves freely.
Early learning experiences like this are critical during a child’s most formative years. Research shows that 90% of brain development occurs before age five, making early childhood education a powerful foundation for lifelong success. Additionally, children who develop strong literacy skills in their early years are more likely to read proficiently by third grade, an important milestone linked to higher graduation rates and long-term academic achievement.
This commitment to early childhood literacy extends beyond the YMCA. Recently, our President and CEO, Christian Engle, traveled to Tallahassee for Advocacy Days, working alongside local and state leaders to ensure continued support and investment in early learning and literacy programs that help children thrive.
Christian shared, “Every child deserves an opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Whether it’s practicing their letters through sensory play or having a caring and safe adult read to them while building confidence and curiosity, these early moments positively shape each child in our program.”
Most importantly, these early experiences help set kids on a path toward success, ensuring they are prepared not just for kindergarten, but for a lifetime of learning.
By investing in early education and child literacy, the YMCA continues its commitment to strengthening families and building brighter futures, one letter and one joyful learning moment at a time. To learn more about our child literacy programs or to support the Y, click here.