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

5 Things We Heard (and Felt) at the 2025 ESS Spring Cross-Network Convening

5 Things We Heard (and Felt) at the 2025 ESS Spring Cross-Network Convening

On May 16, at our Early School Success(ESS) Spring Cross-Network convening, participants brought care, creativity, and clarity as they explored what it takes to build more equitable, student-centered systems – together. Here are five things we heard – and felt – at the convening…

Events

Learning Lab

Learning Lab

Date February 25, 2026Time 9:00 am

This interactive site visit showcases effective early literacy in action, while the host school receives real-time feedb...

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See what’s happening at Children’s Institute

Did you hear? Registrations for the 2025-2026 Early School Success Academy are now open.🎉🥳 Don’t miss your chance to join a dynamic network of educators and school leaders dedicated to shaping the future of early learning. Register today. Link in bio.

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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.

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