What to Expect
Join us for this FREE, fun, and resource-filled event created especially for families with children ages 5 and under. From health services to early learning programs, the Early Childhood Expo brings trusted community partners together in one place, so caregivers can find support, ask questions, and discover tools to help their little ones thrive.
You’ll also find:
- Hands-on arts and crafts for kids
- A quiet room for little ones who need a break
- A Baby Gear Swap with treasures for children 2 and under
- Tasty snacks (while supplies last)
- Door prizes when you complete a short survey
Accessibility and Inclusion
All families are welcome here. We’re committed to creating a space where everyone feels comfortable and supported.
The first hour of the event (10–11 a.m.) will be low-noise to support children who are sensory-sensitive. We also ask guests to avoid wearing perfume or scented lotions.
Spanish and Somali interpreters will be available for families who would like language support. ADA-accessible restrooms are located on the same floor as the event.
Breakout Sessions in Council Chambers
10:30 – 11:30 am: Car Seat Safety
Not sure when to transition car seats? Wondering if yours is installed correctly? This session covers car seat basics, safe transitions, and the most common installation mistakes families make, so you can leave feeling confident your child is riding safely.
Presenter:
Kaytlin Hanson is a Trauma Prevention Specialist at Hennepin Healthcare, Minnesota’s first Level I Trauma Center for both adults and pediatrics. She partners with schools, community organizations, and healthcare providers to deliver evidence-based injury prevention education focused on keeping families safe.
11:45 am – 12:45 pm: Vaccines: What Families Should Know
Have questions about vaccines? Want clear, up-to-date information you can trust? Join local public health and school nursing professionals for a practical conversation about how vaccines work, what’s in them, why they’re recommended, and recent updates in immunizations. There will also be time to address common questions families have.
Presenters:
Alex Najafalipour, Public Health Nurse, and Jen Schreifels, Public Health Nurse Supervisor – Disease Prevention & Control, Bloomington Public Health; and a Licensed School Nurse from Bloomington Public Schools.
List of Exhibitors
- Allina Health Clinic
- Au Pair in America
- Baby Gear Group
- Bloomington Babysitting Co-op
- Bloomington Equity, Inclusion, and Workplace Culture
- Bloomington Parks and Recreation
- Bloomington Public Health Department
- Child Care Aware of MN/Parent Aware
- Cultural Care Aupair
- Early Learning at Washburn (Bloomington Public Schools)
- Elite Gymnastics
- Family Achievement Center
- Fraser School
- Health Commons at Pond Clinic
- Hennepin County Child & Teen Checkups
- Hennepin County Human Services and Public Health
- Hexagon Wealth
- Kumon Math and Reading Center
- Martin Eyecare
- Minnesota Behavioral Specialists
- Nativity of Mary School
- New Horizon Academy
- Ramalynn Academy
- Sakan Community Resource
- St. Luke's Preschool
- St. Michael's Preschool
- St. Stephen Preschool
- Think Small
- Tod Pod Playgroup