The High Plains Early Childhood Collaborative is pleased to announce its second annual celebration of the Week of the Young Child®, April 4-11, 2026. This special week coincides with the national Week of the Young Child® celebration organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
The Week of the Young Child® is an annual celebration that focuses public attention on the needs of young children and their families and recognizes the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs. First established by NAEYC in 1971, this week highlights that the early childhood years (birth through age 8) lay the foundation for children’s success in school and later life.
The High Plains Early Childhood Collaborative is excited to celebrate Week of the Young Child® and invites the community to participate in the celebration through a variety of themed, child-focused activities all week long. All activities are free of charge.
• Music Monday (April 6): Free admission to the North Platte Area Children’s Museum from 5:30pm-7pm. Sponsored by Lincoln County Rooted in Relationships.
• Tasty Tuesday (April 7): DIY Yogurt Parfaits and slime kits at Buffalo Early Learning Center from 5:30pm-7pm. Sponsored by North Platte EDN, North Platte Sixpence, and Head Start.
• Work Together Wednesday (April 8): Building Block Party at Hope Esperanza from 1-2:30pm. Sponsored by Hope Esperanza & Nebraska Extension
• Artsy Thursday (April 9): Art & Ice Cream at Double Dips from 5:30-7pm. Sponsored by C4KLC and Healthy Families America (HFA) with the Prairie Arts Center
• Family Friday (April 10): Decorate family polaroids at the North Platte Public Library from 11am-12pm or 4pm-5pm. Sponsored by the North Platte Public Library.
• Baby Fest (April 11): All New, Expectant, or Hopeful Parents are invited to learn about services, support, and baby products at Mid-Plains Community College from 10am-12pm.
Hosted by WIC.
• Kids in the Park (April 11): Hands-on activities, Fun Jumpz, and resources at Cody Park from 2pm-5pm. Free food. Sponsored by C4KLC