Standing for Our Youngest: Early Learning Pasco and Hernando Counties at Children’s Week at the Capitol
Hudson, Florida (Thursday, February 26) – It was an energetic and inspiring time in Tallahassee during Children’s Week, highlighted by the meaningful Celebration of the Hands exhibit representing the children we proudly serve across the State of Florida. Each year, during the legislative session, thousands of attendees including legislators, public officials, nonprofit organizations, business leaders, children’s advocates, teachers, students, and families attend Children’s Week Florida events and activities at the State Capitol.
Our Executive Director, Dr Steve Knobl, joined fellow child advocates in continuing to champion early learning, elevating the importance of strong investments and policies that support our youngest learners and the families who depend on these essential programs.
We are grateful for the opportunity to engage with legislators and government leaders who recognize the critical importance of programs like School Readiness, ensuring access to quality care and education for all children which includes the children we serve in Pasco and Hernando Counties!
A special thank you to ELCPH Board Member and Pasco County Commissioner District 4, Lisa Yeager for being an integral part of these important discussions. We sincerely appreciate the time spent with Molly Grant, Executive Director of the Association of Early Learning Coalitions (AELC) as we reviewed and discussed budget priorities that support and strengthen early learning initiatives. Your leadership and commitment to our youngest learners make a meaningful difference in advancing quality early education in our community.
In the midst of all the advocacy and important conversations, ELC Pasco & Hernando Executive Director, Dr. Knobl enjoyed a truly magical moment—reading to the senator’s children and grandchildren right inside the Senate Chamber!
What a delightful privilege to share a special Storytime at the Capitol, bringing the joy of books and imagination into such a historic space. Sometimes the sweetest moments of Children’s Week are found in turning pages and sparking little smiles! 📚✨
(Photos include Pasco County Commissioner, District 4, Lisa Yeager; Molly Grant, Executive Director, AELC; ELCPH Executive Director Steve Knobl, Ph.D. and Florida Senator Danny Burgess)
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Children’s week: We deliver the message that every child should be healthy, ready to learn, and able to achieve their full potential. Children’s Week Florida (Feb 22–27, 2026) is a premier, 30-year-running event held at the State Capitol to advocate for children, teens, and families. It brings together thousands of advocates, educators, and leaders to support early learning, child welfare, and health, featuring the Celebration of the Hands, Storybook Village, and an awards dinner.
