The Connecticut Children’s Collective, partners with local early childhood collaboratives from across the state that are doing amazing, innovative, system-changing work. In 2023 we started a new series, the Collective Spotlight. We will talk with directors, staff, parents, and community members who have created, improved, or brought awareness to programs and services that will better serve the children and families in their community, as well as the entire state. By sharing and learning from others, we begin to break down silos, and form a stronger, more forward moving, and innovative community of practice.

ALL of our LECCs are dedicated, hardworking, professionals who are committed to improving the lives of children. They all deserve a spotlight, and the Collective intends to shine one on them. This month, March, we illuminate Manchester. Please click here to watch an interview with Barbara Vita, Director of Early Childhood Initiatives for the CT Network for Children and Youth and the Coordinator of the CT Children’s Collective, Donna Farr, School Readiness Liaison for the Manchester Early Childhood Collaborative, and Caitlin McNamara, the Early Childhood Specialist for the Manchester Youth Service Bureau, as well as a member of the Office of Early Childhood’s Parent Cabinet. Donna and Caitlin will be sharing how they have been working together with parents to create a new program: Parent’s Cafe.