Children's week observed at City Hall

The 17th annual Children’s Week is being observed by the city of Sarasota with artwork created by some of the city’s youngest citizens on display in the lobby of City Hall, 1565 First Street.

The display is open to the public 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday through Friday, Feb. 24.

“It’s so nice to have the children’s artwork in the lobby,” said Mayor Suzanne Atwell, in a news release.“Seeing their hand drawings with phrases like ‘Love Me,’ ‘Protect Me’ and ‘Teach Me’ is a testament to the innocence of children and the importance of always safeguarding their future.”

Children's Week unifies more than 200 community events and activities throughout the state with thousands of parents, children, legislators, professionals, community leaders and concerned citizens getting together to share valuable knowledge and information about children's issues.

Local preschoolers across Sarasota County submitted artwork to the Early Learning Coalition and The Florida Center for the display at City Hall. The children designed colorful paper cutouts of their hands, with each hand representing the unique and important voice of each child. It emphasizes the need for all children to receive the programs and services necessary to nurture them and prepare them for school and life.

Children's Week will be celebrated locally through the Partnership for Children collaboration of more than 25 local agencies including the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, Children First, The Florida Center, Safe Children Coalition and many more. For more information, contact Karen Massa with the Early Learning Coalition at 556-1600, ext. 106.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].