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Full STEAM Ahead in Championing Young Futures!

Collaborative for Children’s Collab Kid University transformed Rice University into a vibrant STEAM playground for curious young minds. On April 11, 2026, more than 700 children, parents, families, and educators gathered to explore, discover, and create together. Designed with young learners ages 3–6 in mind, the event welcomed all ages to share in the excitement of hands-on learning and playful discovery.

This experience emphasizes the critical developmental window between ages 3 and 6, a time when nearly 90% of a child’s brain develops. Collab Kid University supports that “absorbent mind” stage by promoting curiosity, building confidence, and encouraging hands-on exploration through STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).

What Happens at Collab Kid U?

Full STEAM Ahead Activations

At Collab Kid U, we expose the next generation of Houston’s scientists, high-tech innovators, and problem-solvers to captivating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics stations. With several unique play-based STEAM experiences per STEAM category, young minds will embark on a Full STEAM Ahead learning adventure on one of the nation’s most future-forward campuses. Our youngest citizens use their natural curiosity to explore coding, climate solutions, life sciences, renewable energy, robotics, visual arts, and more.

Parents and children will earn stickers for every challenge they pursue in helping prepare Houston’s future through the lenses of the brightest young minds. After their journey into an exciting future filled with possibilities, our youngest innovators can take a graduation photograph with their earned Collab Kid U diploma—a tangible testament to their Full STEAM Ahead accomplishment.

Diverse Learning Opportunities

Vendors, carefully chosen from our collaborative network, host unique activations aligning with their STEAM expertise.
Future career fun and creative problem-solving activities were led by regional STEAM experts, innovative volunteers, and creative instructors from Collaborative for Children and Laboratory experts of Rice University.

Parent Testimonials "We expected to walk around, try a few activities, and head out, but we ended up staying the entire time. Every station felt thoughtfully designed for young kids, and nothing was too advanced or overwhelming. She still talks about the ‘robot table’ and getting her diploma at the end." “My daughter didn’t want to leave.” — Parent of a 4-year-old

Parent Testimonials "What stood out was how hands-on everything was. My son wasn’t just watching demonstrations; he was building, testing, and asking questions. Seeing that happen on a college campus like Rice made the experience feel special without being intimidating." “It was exciting to see my child exploring real STEAM concepts through play.” — Parent of a 5-year-old

Parent Testimonials "There was no pressure to rush from station to station. We followed my child’s curiosity, collected stickers, and moved at our own pace. As a parent, I appreciated how welcoming it was, and as a bonus, we got some great photos from graduation that actually meant something to our family." “Collab Kid U felt fun, not forced.” — Parent of a 3-year-old

Make a Donation to Collaborative for Children

Special Thanks to our 2026 Collab Kid U Supporters

(Want to become a 2027 Collab Kid U supporter? Email: Communications@Collabforchildren.org)

IN THE NEWS

Collab Kid U 2026 Photo Gallery

Collab Kid U 2024 & 2025 Photo Gallery

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Collaborative for Children’s Mission and Vision

MISSION:

We meaningfully improve the quality of early childhood education and care for Greater Houston’s children through those most influential in their lives.

VISION:

All children in Greater Houston have the high-quality early learning opportunities they need to achieve their full potential.

By purchasing a ticket and participating in Collab Kid U, you consent to the use of photos and videos taken during the event for promotional purposes.

Learn More About Us Donate Now

Support a Collab Kid! Building critical thinking skills is vital for all children, but not all children have the same early learning opportunities. You can help make sure all Houston-area kids become Collab Kids with a donation. Donate Here

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