April 14 - 16, 2026

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is celebrating the Week of the Young Child with a series of events focused on early learning, family engagement, literacy, and career exploration in Early Childhood Education.

Throughout the week, students, families, educators, and community members are invited to participate in special experiences that highlight the importance of supporting young children and the professionals who work with them

Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Early Childhood Education Career Exploration

Early Childhood Education Career Exploration event

9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Southwest Tech Campus | Room 214 and Child Care Center

High school dual credit students are invited to campus for an interactive Early Childhood Education Career Exploration experience. Students will learn more about career pathways in early childhood, connect with instructors and current students, and participate in hands-on learning activities.

Sessions will include:

  • Hands-on child care activities with children
  • UW–Whitewater transfer opportunities
  • Early Childhood Education program overview
  • Liberal Arts Education program overview

Lunch will be provided.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Family Meal at the Child Care Center

Southwest Tech’s Child Care Center will host a family meal event to celebrate the Week of the Young Child and bring families together in a welcoming environment.

This event is designed for families connected with the Child Care Center and celebrates the important role families play in children’s early learning and development.

Thursday, April 16, 2026
Every Child, Every Story
Early Childhood Education Watch Party

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Attend in person: Lenz Center, Southwest Tech
Attend virtually: Zoom option available upon registration

This special evening event will focus on language and literacy and is designed for early childhood professionals, students, families, and community members.

The keynote presentation will be delivered by Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, pediatrician, educator, and national advocate for early literacy. His presentation, Reach Out and Read, will explore the important role early language exposure and shared reading play in a child’s development.

Following the keynote, in-person participants will have opportunities for discussion and connection around practical literacy strategies and family engagement.

Event Highlights

  • Keynote presentation by Dr. Dipesh Navsaria
  • Focus on language and literacy
  • Child-friendly activities provided by the Southwest Tech Early Childhood Club
  • Food available for in-person participants
  • Virtual attendance option available
  • Giveaways for participants

Audience

  • Early Childhood Education students and staff
  • Early educators and childcare providers
  • School district educators
  • Parents and families
  • Community members interested in early childhood literacy

Registration is required for both in-person and virtual attendance.

Featured Speaker
Dr. Dipesh Navsaria

Dr. Dipesh Navsaria

Dr. Dipesh Navsaria is a pediatrician, educator, and national advocate for early literacy. He is widely recognized for his work connecting health care and literacy and for promoting strategies that support children and families from birth through the early years.

Learn more about Dr. Navsaria:
https://navsaria.com/

Partner Collaboration

This event is presented in collaboration with CESA 3, supporting a shared commitment to strengthening early childhood education and literacy across our region.