news release

Indian River County is inviting families, educators, community partners, and residents to take part in Children’s Week 2026, a weeklong celebration dedicated to honoring children, uplifting families, and recognizing the everyday heroes who help young people thrive.

Taking place February 23–27, Children’s Week will feature interactive, family-friendly events across the county, all centered around this year’s theme: “Every Child Deserves a Hero.” Each day highlights a different way our community supports children through creativity, listening, literacy, environmental stewardship, and meaningful connection.

“Children’s Week is about celebrating the potential of our children and the people who help shape their futures,” said Chairman Loar. “These events give families an opportunity to engage, have fun, and see firsthand how our community is investing in children.”

Children’s Week Events Include:

Monday, February 23 – Build Like a Hero
Main County Library | 4:00–5:00 PM
Children become problem-solving heroes during the Great Library Build-Off, designing imaginative structures using LEGOs, KEVA Planks, K’NEX, and more. This hands-on event encourages creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking through play.

Tuesday, February 24 – Listen & Lagoon
Family Voices, Stormwater, and Environmental Stewardship | 3:00–5:00 PM
Families and community partners are invited to participate in a day focused on listening, learning, and environmental stewardship. Participants will have the opportunity to share feedback through family surveys while also engaging in conversations about stormwater, lagoon restoration, and how environmental health supports children and families. To take our Family Feedback Survey, visit our website at:
https://indianriver.gov/government/boards_and_committees/childrens_services_advisory_committee/index.php

As part of Tuesday’s activities, Natural Resources is happy to host Children’s Week on Tuesday February 24th at Egret Marsh Stormwater Park & Wildlife Sanctuary with a special tour at 3:30pm. No registration required. Get ready to help the Lagoon by creating your own oyster mat! Oyster mats are deployed by the Natural Resources Department around docks to filter pollutants from the water. Egret Marsh is located at 7295 4th St., Vero Beach, FL 32968.

Wednesday, February 25 – Color Your Cape
Heroes in Color Art Challenge
Children from across the county are invited to design and color their own superhero cape, showing what a hero looks like to them. Submitted artwork will be displayed and voted on at the Golden Impact Awards, giving young voices a chance to shine. To find out how to enter the contest, visit the Children Service’s website at:
https://indianriver.gov/government/boards_and_committees/childrens_services_advisory_committee/index.php

Thursday, February 26 – The Golden Impact Awards
IG Center | 2:00–4:00 PM
Community members gather to celebrate everyday heroes, including nonprofit programs, educators, volunteers, and youth who are making a measurable difference in the lives of children and families. The event recognizes excellence, accountability, and real impact.

Friday, February 27 – Storybook Heroes Come to Life
Storybook Village | 10:00 AM
County Commissioners and community leaders bring literacy to life by reading to young children at Childcare Resources. Through storytelling and imagination, children experience the magic of books while seeing community leaders model the power of reading and early learning.

“Children’s Week brings together imagination, listening, creativity, environmental stewardship, recognition, and literacy,” said Cindy Emerson, Director of Community Services. “It’s a celebration of the many ways our community shows up for children and families every day.” The community is encouraged to attend events throughout the week and celebrate the heroes shaping brighter futures for Indian River County’s children.
For more information about Children’s Week events, please contact Ms. Maya Miller, Community Services, Staff Assistant IV, at 772-226-1411 or mmiller@indianriver.gov. To learn more about the statewide Children’s Week celebration, visit childrensweek.org.