"When families read together, they plant the seeds of curiosity, confidence, and connection—literacy becomes not just a skill, but a shared legacy."
— Dr. Ingrid Haynes
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Program
Program Overview
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The Early Learning Quality Network (ELQN) is a $16.4M initiative funded by American Rescue Plan Act dollars to improve early learning and care in Harris County.
Goal
Early Learning Quality Network’s (ELQN) goal is to improve local community child care quality through community led planning and community directed funding.
Strategy
ELQN’s strategy is to improve early learning and care by working alongside providers, families, and other community stakeholders to focus on quality improvement initiatives that build upon the unique strengths and opportunities of each focal community.
Target Outcomes
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2,500+ children to experience improved child care environments.
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Families to have increased access to quality child care that meets their needs and preferences.
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Additional community infrastructure to support quality child care in Harris County.
What we offer?
Playful Minds Learning Kits
The Playful Minds Learning Kits are available to parents and informal caregivers of children ages 0–8. Informal caregivers are individuals who regularly care for a child for at least 10 hours per week but are not the child’s parent or legal guardian. This may include a grandparent, aunt, uncle, family friend, or another trusted adult.
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To be eligible, individuals must meet income guidelines at or below 85% of the State Median Income (SMI).
To qualify, parents or guardians must reside in the 77379 zip code. Informal caregivers may also be eligible if they either live in or provide child care within the 77379 zip code.
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Notice: Playful Minds Online Portal Closed
The Playful Minds online application portal is now closed.
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However, families may still request a paper application by contacting us via email at
