Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.
Skip to main content

Navy CYP CARES Materials

Programs: 24/7 Centers, Child Development Center, Family Child Care, School Age Care, School Liaison, Youth Program
Resource Type: Marketing and Communications
Published: 01/25

Happy New Year! As we kick off 2025, we are excited to focus on Engagement as our C.A.R.E.S. principle for the month of January. Engagement plays a vital role in creating collaborative, positive environments within our programs, and it is essential for fostering strong relationships with the children, youth, families, and coworkers who make up our Navy Child and Youth Program (CYP) community.

What is Engagement? Engagement is about actively involving everyone—children, youth, families, and coworkers—in ways that allow them to contribute, be heard, and collaborate. It’s about building connections, supporting one another, and creating an atmosphere where people feel valued and motivated to participate.

How Can We Incorporate Engagement Across the Enterprise? Here are some practical ways to actively engage across our programs in the month of January:

  1. Family Involvement:
    • Family Feedback & Conversations: Start the new year by reaching out to families for their input on program offerings. Use surveys, one-on-one meetings, or informal conversations to gather feedback and suggestions for future activities or improvements. This helps families feel their voices are valued.
    • Family Nights & Events: Organize family engagement events such as "Family Fun Days" or "CYP Open Houses" to encourage families to actively participate in program activities, meet staff, and connect with other families.
  2. Child & Youth Engagement:
    • Activity Planning & Input: Actively involve children and youth in the planning of their activities. Ask them what they would like to see and do in the program. This could include input on curriculum activities, field trips, or recreational activities.
    • Youth Leadership Opportunities: Create spaces for older children and youth to take on leadership roles within activities, fostering teamwork, responsibility, and a sense of ownership.
  3. Coworker Collaboration:
    • Staff Meetings & Idea Sharing: Foster a culture of collaboration among staff by encouraging open discussions during meetings. Brainstorm ways to improve program activities and services together, ensuring everyone’s input is valued.
    • Cross-Program Collaboration: Encourage collaboration across different program areas. For example, create opportunities for different age groups or departments to work together on shared activities or projects.
  4. Engaging the Wider Community:
    • Partnerships with Local Organizations: Start the year by identifying potential partnerships with local businesses, schools, or community organizations. This can enrich the program and provide opportunities for field trips, guest speakers, or community service activities.
    • Volunteer Opportunities: Engage families and the wider community by inviting them to volunteer in activities or support events, strengthening the sense of community and collaboration.

Starting the Year Off Strong: As we begin 2025, let's make engagement a central part of everything we do. This year, our goal is to ensure every child, youth, and family feels they are an integral part of our CYP community. By engaging everyone around us—whether through active communication, inclusive activities, or collaborative planning—we can build a thriving, positive environment that will make this year our best one yet.