Across the country, kindergarten has been changing. Insights drawn from classroom observations shared through Education Week and the work of Susan Engel give us a helpful window into what children are experiencing today—and why our partnerships matter so much.

One way to help is to learn about the supports and programs available to help families who are in crisis. Sharing information about local food banks, how to enroll in food and cash benefits, and sharing information about supports and services that a family might need helps to strengthen families and protect children.

Families can now apply for Preschool Promise (PSP) for the 2026–27 school year. This free, high-quality preschool program helps children build the skills they need for kindergarten and beyond—at no cost to eligible families.

Car Seat Basics is a free e-learning course that takes about 60 minutes to complete. Learn to keep children safe in cars as they grow by completing all or specific modules on rear-facing and forward-facing car seat use, as well as booster seat and seat belt use.

Hop into spring with our 2026 Local Easter Event Guide! 🐣 Discover egg hunts, crafts, family activities, and more happening across Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties.

Whether you are financially planning ahead, catching up after the holidays, or trying to make sense of tax season, free and low-cost resources are available to help with both financial literacy and tax preparation. This includes help understanding tax credits, finding reliable filing options, and building knowledge that supports long-term stability and financial resilience.

LBCC’s Live & Learn program offers engaging parent-child classes for families with newborns through preschool-aged children. Classes are organized by your child’s age and focus on supporting early development through songs, games, and hands-on activities. Parents gain practical tools to encourage their child’s growth while enjoying meaningful time together.

The WesternU Oregon Rural Health Care Equity Fair is a free community event on May 2, 2026, at the River Center in Lebanon offering health screenings, youth sports physicals, physical therapy checks, nutrition education, and local resources for families.

The Early Learning Hub of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties, in partnership with Pollywog, has released the Final Community Asset Mapping Report. This report reflects the voices and experiences of families and community members across 15 communities in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties, providing a detailed picture of local strengths, resources, and service gaps affecting children and families.

The OPEC Training Academy is offering two free learning opportunities designed to support personal and professional growth. Community members are encouraged to register and share these opportunities with others who may be interested.