A weeklong series of events designed to promote childhood early development was launched yesterday.

The Week of the Young Child welcomed teachers, caregivers, children, parents and passers-by to an opening ceremony on the steps of City Hall.

Diallo Rabain, the education minister, told the crowd it was important to foster development during the first eight years of children’s lives.

He said: “It is our responsibility to instil our children with the tools they will need to navigate the world around them, support them when they falter and uplift them when they succeed.

“After all, it is what we adults instil in our children that provides them with the necessary tools they need to soar.”

Preschool pupils gave musical performances at the opening ceremony and there were speeches from teachers and youngsters.

The weeklong event was organised by the Bermuda Association for the Education of Young Children.

Today will encourage healthy eating and fitness at both home and school with Be Fit Tuesday.

Schools will be encouraged to “work together, build together, learn together” on Wednesday through the organisation of play dates with neighbouring schools.

A “Mommy and Me Workout” will be held from 6pm to 7pm on Wednesday at Warwick Preschool, at $10 for adults, with children admitted free.

Guests are asked to bring their own towels. Creative art for children will be celebrated on Thursday.

Schools were also asked to sign up for an inter preschool sports on May 2.

• For more details on events, contact Shunna Muhammad at baeycbda@gmail.com, or call 335-5089