Across the country, cities, towns, and villages are navigating unprecedented challenges, while still working to ensure young children and families have what they need to thrive. In moments like this, local leadership matters more than ever.
This four-part peer learning series is designed to support cities as they strengthen early childhood systems, learn from one another, and stay connected to what’s emerging nationwide.
This series introduces the Municipal Roadmap to Early Childhood Success, a practical framework grounded in real city experience, peer exchange, and strategies that help local governments protect progress and build responsive systems for children and families.
The Roadmap reflects NLC’s belief that lasting early childhood progress depends on aligned leadership, cross-department coordination, and policies that respond to local context rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
Events In This Series
- Wednesday, February 18, 2026 02:00 PM ET
- Navigating the Moment: Local Leadership and the Roadmap to Early Childhood Success
- This webinar will provide a focused look at NLC’s Municipal Roadmap to Early Childhood Success, highlighting strategies to strengthen systems that support children and families. Participants will receive timely federal updates, explore how to turn emerging challenges into local action, and learn from and connect with peers leading through this moment
- Wednesday, May 20, 2026 02:00 PM ET
- Wednesday, August 19, 2026 02:00 PM ET
- Wednesday, December 2, 2026 02:00 PM ET
What This Series Offers
The Early Childhood Leaders Peer Network Series brings together municipal leaders from across the country to:
- Explore how cities are advancing early childhood priorities amid shifting funding, policy, and governance landscapes
- Learn directly from peers who are navigating similar challenges and opportunities
- Engage in interactive sessions that respond to emerging needs and national trends
- Build relationships in a city-centered, peer-only space designed for honest conversation and shared problem-solving
Each Session Will Feature
- Practical strategies cities are using right now
- Real-world examples from municipal leaders
- Facilitated peer discussion and reflection
- Opportunities to connect across regions and roles
Who Should Participate
This series is designed for:
- Municipal early childhood leaders
- City staff working across departments that impact children and families
- Local government leaders committed to strengthening early childhood systems
Sessions are intentionally structured as a city-focused, peer learning space, creating room for candid conversation and shared learning among municipal leaders. Participation is limited to municipal leaders to preserve trust, relevance, and meaningful peer exchange.