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In Greater Houston, where only 45% of children are kindergarten-ready, Collaborative for Children is leading a transformative movement to ensure every child, regardless of background or ability, has access to high-quality early learning. Under the leadership of President and CEO Dr. Melanie Johnson, the organization is redefining what early childhood education looks like in underserved communities.
“Early childhood education is foundational to help prepare neurodivergent children for the education system and the workforce,” Dr. Johnson shared in a recent interview. Her words reflect a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and innovation in the earliest years of learning.
Houston’s child care landscape has long struggled with disparities. Many families, especially in low-income neighborhoods, face limited access to certified early learning centers. Drop-in daycare facilities often lack the structured curriculum, trained educators, and developmental focus needed to prepare children for lifelong success.
Neurodivergent learners, children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences, are especially vulnerable. Without tailored environments, these children may struggle to engage, learn, and feel safe.
Collaborative for Children has built a network of 125 certified child care centers of excellence across Greater Houston. These centers meet rigorous standards for curriculum, educator training, and inclusive practices. Each site is supported by certified early childhood education (ECE) coaches who work directly with teachers and parents to create developmentally appropriate, sensory-friendly classrooms.
These centers are more than just places to learn—they’re hubs of innovation. Children engage in STEAM-based curriculum that includes coding, robotics, and hands-on science activities designed to build 21st-century skills. This approach ensures that children are not only school-ready but future-ready.
“We want our children to be strong in literacy and numeracy, but also in digital literacy and executive function,” Dr. Johnson emphasized.
Collaborative for Children recognizes that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Parents play a critical role in early education, especially in the first five years when 90% of a child’s brain development occurs.
Through workshops, coaching, and digital tools, the organization helps parents become active participants in their child’s learning journey. From building routines to understanding developmental milestones, families are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to support learning at home.
Dr. Johnson’s leadership has brought national attention to Collaborative for Children’s work with neurodivergent learners. Classrooms are designed to reduce sensory overload, use visual cues for transitions, and foster smooth routines. These adjustments aren’t just helpful—they’re essential.
“It can take a long time to build the infrastructure necessary in a place like Harris County,” Dr. Johnson said. “But it’s worth it.”
The organization’s inclusive model ensures that every child—regardless of ability—can thrive. This is especially critical in Houston’s Complete Communities and child care deserts, where access to quality education has historically lagged.
Unlike drop-in daycare facilities, Collaborative for Children’s Centers of Excellence are rooted in research-based curriculum, certified educator training, and measurable outcomes. Each center is part of a larger ecosystem focused on school readiness, social-emotional development, and long-term academic success.
Drop-in centers may offer convenience, but they often lack the structure and intentionality needed to support early brain development. Collaborative for Children fills that gap with purpose-driven programming and community partnerships.
What is a child care Center of Excellence?
A Center of Excellence is a certified early learning center that meets high standards for curriculum, educator training, and inclusive practices, especially for neurodivergent learners.
How does Collaborative for Children support parents?
The organization offers workshops, coaching, and digital tools to help parents support learning at home and advocate for their child’s unique needs.
What makes Collaborative for Children different from regular daycare?
Unlike drop-in daycare, Collaborative for Children centers use certified ECE coaches, STEAM-based curriculum, and inclusive classroom strategies to ensure school readiness and long-term success.
