University Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Support Early Childhood Learning

Faculty and staff members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Alabama A&M University recently supported early childhood learning and mental health through a donation of books, games, and teacher appreciation items to the University’s Child Development Center.

Fifteen sorority members participated in the service initiative, donating approximately 40 children’s books and 20 developmentally appropriate games for children ages 3 and 4. The materials were intentionally selected to promote social-emotional learning, including emotional expression, kindness, sharing, coping skills, and self-regulation. They also provided gift cards to teachers and staff in recognition of their commitment to student growth, care, and early development.

Established in 1947, the Child Development Center serves as a laboratory center within the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. The center provides early childhood education for children ages 2 to 4 while supporting the University’s mission of teaching, research, and service. Serving approximately 40 children from diverse backgrounds, the CDC emphasizes hands-on learning, character development, and a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Teachers and staff expressed appreciation for the donation, while students responded with excitement as they explored the new books, games, and activities designed specifically for their age group.

“This initiative is a meaningful way to support early childhood development while serving with sisterly love,” said Dr. Tonya Davis, chair of the Department of Psychology and Counseling. “As faculty and staff, it is important that we contribute in ways that strengthen both children’s academic foundations and their emotional health.”

The project aligns closely with Alabama A&M University’s Communiversity mission, which emphasizes meaningful, reciprocal partnerships between the institution and the communities it serves. Beyond early learning, the donated materials are designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health by strengthening pathways for teachers, parents, and students to engage in meaningful conversations and practical implementation around emotional wellness.

The books and games also function as intentional conversation starters for families, helping parents build confidence in discussing emotions, modeling healthy emotional expression, and reinforcing social-emotional growth at home. A unique component of the project allows families to exchange or rotate the books and games, fostering shared ownership, continued engagement, and sustained impact beyond a single point of distribution.

Davis organized the initiative in collaboration with Dr. Lydia Davenport, director of Alabama A&M University Teacher Certification. Together, they coordinated the selection and presentation of culturally affirming and developmentally appropriate materials to enhance the center’s learning environment.

The donated books included “I Am Enough,” by Grace Byers; “The Day You Begin,” by Jacqueline Woodson; “In My Heart: A Book of Feelings,” by Jo Witek; “All Are Welcome,” by Alexandra Penfold; and “Hands Are Not for Hitting,” by Martine Agassi. Games and activities included “Sunny and Stormy Day!” by Peaceable Kingdom, Lakeshore Social-Emotional Match-Ups, Feelings Flips, emotion-matching games, puppets and mindfulness-based learning tools that support emotional awareness and self-regulation.

Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. plan to continue partnering with the Child Development Center through future activities and outreach efforts. The center also welcomes community donations. Individuals interested in contributing can contact Dr. Ethel G. Jones, chair of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences.