The gym was filled with music, laughter and tiny twirling dancers as families gathered for the first-ever Twirling Our Tots — a prom-inspired celebration created especially for the district’s youngest learners.
Organized by TOTE Supervisor Jenny Lauterbach and TOTE staff, the event welcomed TOTE and WBSD Early On families for an evening designed around connection, play and joyful early childhood experiences on April 17 at Woodhaven Upper Elementary School.
“Twirling Our Tots was created to give young children the opportunity to experience music, movement and social interaction in a developmentally appropriate way,” said Lauterbach. “We also wanted to create space for families and caregivers to connect with one another and with our providers in a fun, structured and sensory-friendly environment.”
Throughout the hour-and-a-half celebration, children rotated through hands-on stations that encouraged creativity and fine motor development. Young attendees crafted corsages, boutonnières and crowns, decorated mirrors, and proudly prepared for the dance floor.
Families enjoyed food provided by Baldos and Sammie and Pops, while a photo booth captured keepsake keychain photos to remember the special evening.
Beyond the festivities, the event highlighted the critical role early intervention programs play in child development. Early childhood experiences rooted in relationships, play and community support lay the foundation for future success in school and beyond.
“Events like this are so important because they showcase the scope and impact of early intervention programs,” Lauterbach explained. “They also give families a glimpse into what a traditional K–12 school experience can look like, helping ease that transition when the time comes.”
As children spun beneath the lights and families gathered for photos, Twirling Our Tots proved to be more than a themed event — it was a celebration of belonging, growth and community from the very beginning of a child’s educational journey.