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The energy at Parker Williams Library was electric as Collaborative for Children proudly unveiled the newly enhanced Collab-Lab, a mobile classroom designed to promote curiosity and build 21st-century skills in young children. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a major milestone in early childhood education for Greater Houston, drawing enthusiastic supporters, educators, donors, and families eager to witness the future of learning on wheels.
The Collab-Lab is more than a classroom, it’s a mobile innovation hub. Outfitted with interactive robots, augmented reality sandboxes, Vibe boards, Hatch tables, and a suite of hands-on learning activities, the upgraded Collab-Lab delivers immersive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) experiences to children ages 0–5. These tools are proven to enhance cognitive development, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), STEAM learning in early childhood encourages inquiry-based exploration, helping children build vocabulary, critical thinking, and collaboration skills. By integrating these disciplines into playful, real-world scenarios, the Collab-Lab prepares children for academic success and lifelong learning.
This transformation wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our partners. We extend heartfelt thanks to Save the Children, 900lbs of Creative, and Parker Williams Library for their commitment to educational equity and innovation. Their collaboration ensures that children in underserved communities have access to high-quality learning experiences that foster resilience and readiness for the future.
Early childhood is a critical window for brain development. Mobile classrooms like the Collab-Lab bring certified early childhood education (ECE) curriculum directly to neighborhoods, eliminating barriers to access. Unlike drop-in daycare facilities, Collaborative for Children’s approach emphasizes child care centers of excellence, where trained educators deliver structured, play-based learning aligned with developmental milestones.
The Collab-Lab also support dual-generation learning, engaging both children and parents in the educational journey. Families receive guidance on creating learning-rich environments at home, reinforcing skills taught in the Collab-Lab.
Dr. Melanie Johnson, CEO of Collaborative for Children, shared her excitement at the event:
“The Collab-Lab is a game-changer. It brings the future of education to the present, right into our communities. We’re not just teaching children, we’re empowering families and building a foundation for lifelong success.”
