Kids’ teddy times

YOUNGSTERS last week dug out their favourite teddy bears for a special event to launch a new draft families and children’s strategy.
The Shire of Yarra Ranges launched the new plan as part of Children’s Week at Lillydale Lake.
The Help Shape the Future for Children strategy was developed earlier this year in consultation with more than 300 kids and parents.
Mayor Len Cox said the strategy would provide the council with an opportunity to plan for the future of the children across the shire.
Lyster Ward councillor Samantha Dunn praised all the parents and teachers that were involved in developing the plan.
“Studies have shown the importance of investing quality in early years services,” she said. “This plan will enable us to have a strategic plan for the development and coordination of early education, care and health services, activities and developments for young children.
The strategy is now available for comment and the shire is calling on all parents to have their say by 4 December.
The plan is available on the shire’s website at www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
Following the launch of the strategy local youngsters enjoyed a teddy bear picnic concert.