RAPP Supports Play!

At the Rochester Area Parent Program (RAPP), we believe that play is more than just fun—it’s a powerful tool for connection, learning, and growth. Through our online parenting classes for caregivers of children ages 2–8, we introduce simple, effective strategies that make a big difference. One of the first and most impactful? Child-Centered Time.

Everyday Items, Extraordinary Imagination

As Antoinette Portis says in her classic book, Not a Box, “A box is just a box . . . unless it's not a box. From mountain to rocket ship, a small rabbit shows that a box will go as far as the imagination allows.” It reminds us that sometimes, the most magical play begins with the simplest items.

Children's Institute Appoints Dr. Dianne Cooney-Miner as Executive Director

Children's Institute (CI), a national non-profit that partners with organizations and individuals to promote the well-being of children, youth, and families, today announced the appointment of Dr. Dianne Cooney-Miner as Executive Director, effective June 16, 2025.

CI Family Council supports Spring Scrubs Club Event

The primary objective of Scrubs Club is to introduce young children to the world of healthcare. By participating in various hands-on activities, children learn about the importance of preventive medicine and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Rochester Early Childhood Assessment Partnership: Celebrating over 30 years of a successful community-wide educational partnership

The Rochester NY community collaborated for over 30 years to develop, implement, improve, and innovate its early education quality improvement system known as Rochester Early Childhood Assessment Partnership (RECAP).

RAPP’s National Presence at the Chicago Parent Program Futures Symposium

Linda Murray, Rochester Area Parent Program (RAPP)’s Project Coordinator, recently represented Children’s Institute (CI) at the Chicago Parent Program’s (CPP) Futures Symposium. This gathering brought CPP experts, funders, and supporters together to share ideas and efforts to implement and sustain CPP programs like RAPP at local, state, and national levels.

Announcing 27th Annual RECAP Report

Children’s Institute, in partnership with the Rochester City School District Office of Early Childhood, is pleased to announce the publication of the 27th annual report of the Rochester Early Childhood Assessment Partnership (RECAP).

Our Final #SELday shoutout!

CI SEL Resource Day!

Schoolwide learning habits help integrate SEL skill building into the school’s culture

When 2nd grade teacher Danielle Vaccaro at School #15 Children's School of Rochester was asked how she promotes SEL skill development, she proudly shared that the whole school has adopted Learning Habits that align with SEL skills and competencies— which staff explicitly then teach. These “I CARE” learning habits are: Integrity, Cooperation, Accountability, Resiliency, Effort.