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The toddler years are a critical time for brain development. By age three, a child’s brain is already 80% developed. During this window, playful learning experiences can shape how children think, solve problems, and interact with the world. At Collaborative for Children, we design early childhood education programs that turn everyday moments into powerful learning opportunities.
Our Centers of Excellence and Collab-Lab mobile classroom use certified ECE curriculum to support brain development through STEAM activities, emotional growth, and hands-on exploration. Whether your child is stacking blocks or singing songs, they’re building the skills they’ll need for school and life.
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Collaborative for Children’s expert-designed activities are aligned with neuroscience and certified early childhood education standards. These activities are simple, fun, and built to support:
– Cognitive development through sorting, matching, and problem-solving games
– Language skills through storytelling, singing, and conversation
– Emotional growth through pretend play and social interaction
Our downloadable activity cards help parents turn daily routines into brain-building experiences. For example:
– Match socks by color and size
– Sing songs with hand motions
– Build towers with blocks and count each piece
– Explore nature and describe what you see, hear, and feel
These activities are used in our Centers of Excellence and shared with families through Collab-Lab visits.
Download the I Wonder Parenting Handbook
Not every family has access to a child care center. That’s why Collaborative for Children created Collab-Lab—a mobile classroom that brings early learning directly to communities. Collab-Lab offers free activity cards, expert guidance, and interactive experiences that help parents support brain development at home.
See where the Collab-Lab will be next!Toddlers develop critical thinking, memory, and problem-solving skills through play. These skills form the foundation for academic success and emotional resilience. Collaborative for Children ensures that every child care provider, educator, and parent has access to tools that support brain development from birth to age five.
Our goal is to help every child become a confident, curious learner—ready for school and beyond.
Resources for familiesQ: What kinds of activities help my toddler’s brain grow?
A: Simple activities like stacking blocks, singing songs, sorting toys, and pretend play all support brain development. The key is to engage your child in playful learning.
Q: Do I need special toys or tools?
A: No. Everyday items like socks, kitchen utensils, and books can become brain-boosting tools. Collaborative for Children provides free activity cards to guide you.
Q: Can I get help even if my child isn’t in a child care center?
A: Yes. Collab-Lab visits and online resources are available to all families in Greater Houston. We believe every child deserves access to high-quality early learning.
