Welcome to the Early Childhood Family Ambassadors Project

The Early Childhood Family Ambassadors project empowers parents and caregivers of young children to share their voices and shape the future of early learning in the Mid-Columbia region.

Our goal is simple: listen to families, learn from their lived experiences, and turn their insights into action that improves early childhood programs—especially preschool and parent education services.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, you're invited to explore the real stories and ideas shared by families in your community.

How the Feedback Groups Work

Our data is collected through small, community-led feedback groups facilitated by trained Family Ambassadors—parents and caregivers just like you. Each group gathers to reflect on two key topics:

1. Preschool Experiences

Through a guided discussion on the Strengths, Challenges, and Opportunities of preschool access and enrollment in their community, families write responses on sticky notes that are grouped into themes.

2. Parent Education

In this interactive “affinity mapping” activity, families explore what they Say, Do, Think, and Feel about parent education classes. These responses help us understand what motivates families and what barriers may stand in the way.

Every sticky note written is reviewed, grouped, and added to our live data dashboard. Responses are anonymous, and participation is always voluntary and safe.

Explore the Live Data Dashboard

The dashboard below displays real-time results from our family feedback sessions.

You can:

  • Choose a topic: Preschool Experiences or Parent Education

  • Sort responses by theme

  • Read real quotes shared by families

  • See how community experiences evolve as more groups participate

We believe in transparency and shared learning. This dashboard is here to help local programs, educators, and policymakers understand what families really need—and act on it.

🔍 Data is collected and analyzed by Four Rivers Early Learning & Parenting using trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices.

Get Involved — Host a Feedback Group!

Want to help shape early childhood programs in your community? You can run your own group!

We provide everything you need, including:

  • A print-ready facilitator guide

  • Downloadable poster templates

  • Sample social media posts and invitations

  • Easy-to-use reporting forms

  • Support and training from our team

Download the Toolkit Here (available soon)

Whether you're part of a playgroup, neighborhood circle, parenting class, or just a few friends gathering at a kitchen table—your voices matter.

Example of Feedback Poster