Children’s Institute shapes early childhood policy, secures public investments for early childhood programs and services, and works with school communities to strengthen early learning for children and teaching practices for educators.
Our Work
At Children’s Institute, we work to improve the lives of children from prenatal to grade 5 who experience institutional or systemic barriers to opportunity in Oregon: children from low-income families, children of color, disabled children, dual language learners, and children in rural areas.
Our research, policy and advocacy, learning initiatives, and community partnerships all aim to keep kids healthy and safe and prepare them to be active, engaged learners.
The Latest
Children’s Wellness – Oregon Values and Beliefs Center
Is Oregon the best place to be a kid? If not, how can we improve childhood and parenting experiences in the state?
Early Childhood Coalition Announces 15 Policy Priorities
Children’s Institute (CI) is elated with the Oregon Legislature’s creation of a new Senate Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health. The Committee not only aligns with CI’s support of early childhood education, it does so in an original way.
Senate Committee Offers Fresh Take on Early Childhood Health
Children’s Institute (CI) is elated with the Oregon Legislature’s creation of a new Senate Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health. The Committee not only aligns with CI’s support of early childhood education, it does so in an original way.
Events
Early School Success Spring Cross-Network Convening
Early School Success Spring Cross-Network Convening
(Invitation-only event) The Spring Cross-Network convening aims to bring together Early School Success partner districts...
See what’s happening at Children’s Institute
We were live at the @koin6 studio this morning! @kaliforchildren and @senatorlisareynolds talked about the Momnibus package and how these policies are critical for moms/birthing parents, babies, and families. Sending gratitude to @koinnewsamextra for having us on today 🫶🏾
Our Choose Children Day of Action this Monday in Salem was a testament to the power of cross-sector collaboration to push forward policies that will ensure Oregon`s youngest children have what they need in health (doulas!), education (child care!), and family support services (relief nurseries!). Scroll through this photo series from yesterday to see the powerful statements from our cross-sector partners and early childhood advocates.
“This was a rallying cry for the legislature and the executive branch in support of early childhood. It’s just what we needed. Well done.”
Sue Miller, Chair, Early Learning Council-OR DELC
#earlychildhoodeducation #earlyliteracy #momnibus
Choose Children Day of Action is an event urging Oregon legislators to choose children across sectors this legislative session, including health, education, and family support services. This means ensuring families have access to specialized health care during and after pregnancy, child care providers can ensure kids in their care have access to nutritious food, and that at birth, children and families have access to early literacy (among others!). #orpol #orleg #oregon #esrlylearning#choosechildren
We are highlighting this excellent OPB piece highlighting the need to fund early childhood issues, such as childcare! Thank you, Alex Baumhardt! (SEE ARTICLE LINK IN OUR BIO. It`s the linktr.ee link.)
@opbphoto #childcare
Happy Valentine’s Day!
PBS offers an awesome activity for this day of love to help your child:
* Identify shapes and colors.
* Use hand-eye coordination.
* Strengthen fine motor skills.
* Practice gratitude and mindfulness.
See link in our bio!
#valentinesday #love #earlylearning #momlife
Black Leaders in Early Childhood Education
This month, we`re highlighting Black leaders who gave their hearts and careers to raise up young children. This week, we`re shining a light on Ron Herndon.
Longtime #Portland residents: Do you have memories about Mr. Herndon that you would like to share? Can you tell us how an amazing Black leader has changed your life for the better? Share your thoughts in the comments!
#blackleaders #blackhistory #changemakers #earlychildhood #ronherndon
Tune in to The Early Link Podcast
The Early Link Podcast highlights national, regional, and local voices working in early childhood education and the nonprofit sector. The podcast is written, hosted, and produced by Rafael Otto, Children’s Institute’s director of communications.Subscribe
