WGTE Announces Learn & Play Treasure Chests

New Initiative Focuses on Early Childhood Learning and Kindergarten Readiness Standards

Toledo, Ohio — WGTE Public Media believes every child should begin school ready to learn. WGTE’s latest early learning initiative, Learn & Play Treasure Chests, is designed to provide teachers, parents and caregivers with tools and materials that set children up for success in school and beyond.

The initiative employs an innovative approach to early childhood learning. Each Learn & Play Treasure Chest includes books, hands-on activities and guided links to PBS KIDS content. Through professional development classes, teachers will receive practical instruction tips and resources to integrate materials into their classrooms, using a curriculum aligned to Ohio Department of Early Learning Standards. In addition, WGTE will host a series of Family Learning Nights that engage parents and children together, strengthening family bonds and improving children’s kindergarten readiness.

“We know children love PBS KIDS programming,” said Tina Bossenbroek, WGTE’s Director of Educational Services, “so integrating characters with whom they share a connection makes learning even more engaging for them. This initiative also transforms the family learning experience, as parents are given both the tools and the confidence to help improve their children’s literacy, math skills, physical development and social-emotional learning. We’re very excited to see the many ways these Treasure Chests inspire young minds.”  

Learn & Play Treasure Chests address a vital need for effective educational programming at the pre-kindergarten level. In Lucas County, only 20% of children enter kindergarten ready to read, with readiness rates lowest among children facing economic hardship. Kindergarten readiness is a powerful predictor of long-term academic achievement, health and economic stability. Research consistently demonstrates that high-quality early childhood academic programming improves cognitive development, strengthens emotional regulation and promotes lifelong healthy behaviors. 

The first Learn & Play Treasure Chests have been made available to preschools supported by HOPE Toledo. Additional Learns & Play Treasure Chests will be directed toward preschools that have a demonstrated need for support and access to high-quality educational materials. 
The Learn & Play Treasure Chests initiative was made possible with funding from the PNC Foundation, Elyria Charities, Inc., and a 2026 Growth & Resilience Grant from the John Henry Eldred, Jr. Foundation.