Early Childhood Convening Exceeds Expectations

​The Alliance hosted its 3rd Early Childhood Convening on January 11. There were about 70 participants representing families, early childhood coalitions, early childhood Regions, family resource centers, head start, child care programs, early childhood funders and state leaders.

​The convening began with a look back at the different milestones in each person's life or organization and to reflect upon their work up to today. Participants then considered what they would celebrate in early care and education in two years. Christina Lachance, Director of the Council for Thriving Children, shared the revised Strategic Plan for Early Childhood and engaged in a robust Q and A. After lunch, the partners in each Region sat together to discuss the early childhood work happening in their Regions and communities, providing an opportunity for conversation and connection. Participants could then select to be in a discussion about the childcare workforce, business models, family access, or the health and well-being of staff and families. There was a rich sharing of what is currently happening in the field, where there is connection and where new connections could be made. A meeting summary will be shared with participants to help guide the work ahead.