Parents Gain Access to Additional Free Early Childhood Programming
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Northwest Education Services (North Ed) is excited to announce three new partners who have joined the Neighborhood Network of Playgroups, an initiative of the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay.
The Neighborhood Network of Playgroups brings families and local partners together to play, connect and build community in fun and welcoming environments. Each playgroup session offers a story and a snack, and is free and open to families with young children. Sessions are held at various locations throughout the five-county area.
New Neighborhood Network partners include:
Benzie Early Head Start, 9938 Honor Highway, Honor
Clearwater Township Hall with Leap of Faith Gymnastics, 5440 River St. NW, Rapid City
COGNiTiON Science & Discovery Center, 232 N. Michigan Ave., Beulah
Elk Rapids Schools Way to Grow
Lakeland Elementary School, 616 Buckley St., Elk Rapids
Mill Creek Academy, 9039 Old State Highway, Williamsburg
Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Highway, Bellaire
With the new additions, the Neighborhood Network of Playgroups now has 18 partners. For information on the days and locations of all playgroups, visit North Ed’s website or contact GreatStart@NorthwestEd.org or call 231.342.5400.
“We are thrilled to add three new organizations to our Neighborhood Network of Playgroups,” said Robin Hornkohl, coordinator for the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay. “These playgroups offer benefits for the entire family. They provide rich learning environments where children build confidence and skills, while offering parents a dedicated space to connect, access resources and strengthen family bonds.”
Playgroups are designed to promote early childhood development through play-based, age-appropriate activities, while supporting family connections that build stronger communities. Beyond activities, caregivers receive direct support through expert guidance, parenting tips and educational resources.
The State of Michigan cut funding for Great Start Collaboratives in its 2025-26 budget, causing many communities to lose access to resources and programming led by the regional organizations. Thanks to area partners and a conservative fiscal management approach at North Ed, the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay has enough funding to continue its work through June 2026. In the meantime, leaders are continuing to explore ways to secure a long-term solution. The Collaborative is collecting stories from the community about the impact its programming has had on local children and families. Please share your stories about the impact here.
This information will be used to inform statewide advocacy efforts.
Select Traverse Bay from the dropdown for County/Collaborative.