Episode
They've Been Raising Kids Since 1857. What Would Rochester Look Like If Every Three and Four Year Old Had THIS?
- Podcast
- Rochester Speaks
- Published
- Mar 22, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 746
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://rss.com/podcasts/rochester-speaks/2612835
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Summary
Ann Marie Stephan, Executive Director, and Mike Hoskins, Director of Development and Marketing at Rochester Child First Network, pull back the curtain on one of Rochester's most quietly impactful organizations, one that has been serving children and families since 1857 and is approaching its 170th year. Discover how RCN provides a full continuum of care for children ages six weeks through 12, including childcare, Universal Pre-K, preschool special education services and a full kitchen serving fresh meals and snacks daily. Learn why RCN is one of only four community based organizations in Monroe County offering integrated preschool special education, and how children who receive those services often grow out of the need for them entirely before they reach kindergarten. Hear why 90% of brain development occurs before age five and what that means for the case behind Universal Preschool, an initiative RCN is actively advocating for alongside state elected officials. Mike also breaks down the summer program enrolling now for children ages five through 12, eight weeks of themed learning, field trips, yoga, zoo visits and planetarium adventures designed to prevent the summer slide. Ann Marie shares the deep roots of inclusivity at RCN stretching back to the organization's founding, and how that same commitment to meeting every child where they are continues to define everything they do today. To learn about enrollment, volunteer or board opportunities or to support the mission visit rcn4kids.org or call 585.473.2858 .