HATTIESBURG – All children, families and educators are provided an opportunity for education and access to learning materials at the Mississippi State University’s Resource and Referral Agency in Petal.

The referral agency is part of the Mississippi Child Care Resource and Referral Network, offered by MSU’s Extension Service. There are 12 referral agency sites, including the one in Petal, which serves Lamar, Jones, Wayne, Covington, Forrest, George, Greene, Stone, Pearl River and Perry counties.

The agency offers a resource library full of books for families and children of all ages, including books to help parents encourage their children’s understanding of the world. Also available are educational toys, CDs, video collections, and arts and crafts materials. The agency works with parents to help them choose quality childcare and assists teachers with Early Learning Guideline and Creative Curriculum training.

“We serve not only Petal, but the surrounding area including, Hattiesburg,” said Niki Thompson, training coordinator at the referral agency. “It is essential that teachers add variety to their daily instruction and provide children with appropriate material and activities to carry out their curriculum goals. We provide in-person training and interaction with on-site training coordinators and resource technicians.”

The Referral Agency is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Call (601) 584-4704 for more information or to schedule a visit.

Writer: Karen Templeton