Community Bridges finds innovative ways to help children learn on the Central Coast

Watsonville, Calif. (KION)- For over four decades, Community Bridges has served the purpose of providing resources to people in Santa Cruz.

One of the most successful programs offered is the Early Education Division. It’s here where lessons are taught that go beyond the classroom. Maria Hurtado, the Program Manager for the organization, says it’s essential to find ways to keep children engaged in the classroom.

"The children always are playing because that’s our goal that children learn by playing, so all the activities that the teacher set up for them has a goal," said Hurtado.  

Whether it’s a song or an outside activity, teachers develop interactive learning techniques to get kids up and moving physically and mentally.   

The pandemic brought on many challenges to families. With that came a gap in children’s learning abilities. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the early years of education for children are critical and necessary for a child’s learning and development.   

But that’s where community bridges are ready to get to work.   

Lisa Hindman Holbert, the Program Director for the Early Childhood Division, says the interactive learning style will also help kids later on in life.

"A lot of the skills we teach are lifelong. How do you say no to somebody when you don't want them to do something, and how do you enter a group when you might be a  little bit shy to enter the group, so really facilitating setting up the environment for them,"  

One teacher makes it her goal to keep kids engaged. Margarita Castro sings, reads books, and plays with her students.   

"Every kid is different, and I learn from them, and they learn what I teach,” said Castro.  

If you want to be like Margarita and teach, you’re in luck. The program needs more educators.

"At least a commitment to take six units of early childhood development. Cabrillo's a great program. That's where a lot of staff have gone. I went to Cabrillo, and many of our team have associate degrees in our early childhood education."  

 Margarita is a prime example of this.   

"My goal was I want to be a teacher. I'm going to prepare in Cabrillo to be a teacher," said Castro.

Six centers in total are offered and made affordable for families. Information on the website gives you an insight into more of the programs offered.  

  "My learning never stops, and I hope that’s what we can include with our team, the staff here, and also the children and the families we serve."