Willard Community Center Expanding Early Explorers to Include Infant & Toddler Care

February 23, 2026

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For 46 years, Willard Community Center has been a trusted gathering place for families in southwest Lincoln. Now, we are growing in a powerful new way.

Beginning Summer 2026, Willard’s Early Explorers program will expand to include licensed infant care, followed by toddler care in Fall 2026. This expansion will add 8 infant slots and 12 toddler slots, directly addressing one of the most critical childcare shortages in Lincoln.

Meeting a Critical Community Need

Families across Lincoln face long waitlists for infant and toddler care. These early years are foundational for brain development, social-emotional growth, and long-term school readiness. By expanding Early Explorers to serve children from infancy through preschool, Willard will provide:

• High-quality, nurturing care during the most critical developmental years

• Continuity for families within one trusted program

• Stability for working parents

• Stronger transitions into preschool

Our current preschool and pre-k program is rated Step 4 in Nebraska’s Step Up to Quality system, reflecting our long-standing commitment to excellence. This expansion allows us to extend that same high standard of care to our youngest learners.

Growth with Purpose

This is not growth for the sake of growth. It is growth rooted in listening.

Over the past several years, families have consistently asked if Willard would ever serve infants and toddlers. At the same time, workforce participation in our community depends on reliable, affordable childcare options.

Expanding Early Explorers strengthens the entire community, supporting children, parents, and employers alike.

A Continuum of Care

With this expansion, Willard will offer a full early childhood continuum:

Infants → Toddlers → Preschool → Before & After School Programs

Families will be able to grow with us, building relationships that last for years, not just a season.

Looking Ahead

Small room modifications and preparations are already underway to ensure the new classrooms meet all licensing standards and reflect the warm, welcoming environment families expect from Willard.

We are excited for this next chapter and grateful for the community partners and supporters helping make it possible.