For more than a century, Encompass Early Education and Care has been the trusted leader in early education and childcare for families throughout Northeastern Wisconsin. With a legacy that began in 1919, Encompass is far more than a childcare provider. We are educators, advocates and partners – champions for children and families.
Across eight centers in Green Bay, De Pere, Pulaski and Oconto Falls, Encompass serves more than 1,100 children annually—from infants to school-agers up to 12 years old. We are nationally accredited and rated 5 STARS by the state of Wisconsin, a distinction achieved by less than 10% of childcare centers nationwide. But what truly sets Encompass apart is our unwavering commitment to compassion, excellence, and advocacy—for every child, every family, every day.
What Makes Encompass Unique?
At Encompass, we don’t just care for children—we educate and empower them during the most critical years of brain development. Our centers use HighScope curriculum, a research-based, play-centered approach proven to support healthy cognitive, social and emotional growth. We also use Conscious Discipline principles, a trauma-informed approach that helps children build self-regulation, resilience and positive relationships.
Our educators are highly trained professionals— 85% hold a degree or are working toward one, and 100% pursue annual professional development. We believe that strong educators create strong futures, and our results speak for themselves: children enrolled with us for nine months or more show 100% developmental growth.
Support extends beyond the classroom through our Child & Family Advocate Program, which provides individualized support for children experiencing behavioral or developmental challenges, and resource navigation and basic needs support for families.
Our Tuition Support Program ensures affordability is never a barrier. Families who qualify pay no more than 15% of their gross household income, and our team helps connect them with additional support. In fact, 55% of children in our care receive some for of support to afford the cost of care.
A Legacy of Play and Discovery: The Big Event for Kids
One of the most beloved Encompass traditions is our Big Event for Kids, now in its 36th year. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 20, at Heritage Hill State Park in Green Bay—and it’s completely FREE to attend.
The Big Event features a full day of interactive, hands-on learning and exploration with over 50 exhibitors. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits, creative crafts, sensory play, STEM activities, live music, costume characters and more.
But the Big Event is more than a celebration. It’s a story of heart, family and enduring community spirit.
The event was founded by Carol “Bicky” Bush, a visionary Encompass supporter who dreamed of a space where all children—regardless of background—could explore, play and discover. Carol’s legacy continues through her family: her daughter Tracy Arndt, an Encompass Board Member, has served on the coordinating committee for decades, and now Tracy’s daughter-in-law Lindsay Arndt has joined the effort, carrying this tradition forward for a new generation.
Thanks to the dedication of countless community volunteers over the 36 years of this event, the Big Event continues to grow and welcome thousands of families each year. It’s a symbol of Encompass and our mission to wrap our arms around families and to always do what’s best for children.
Join Us—At the Big Event and Beyond
If you’re looking for a day of free family fun, we invite you to join us on September 20 for the Big Event for Kids. And if you’re ready to learn more about how Encompass can support your child’s growth, we welcome you to visit one of our eight centers or browse programs online at www.encompasswi.org.
We are currently enrolling children ages 6 weeks to 12 years and offer full-day childcare, 4K in partnership with local school districts, before- and after-school care, and summer programming. With tuition support, wraparound family services, and a “best in class” curriculum, Encompass is a place where your child—and your entire family—can thrive.
Come explore, enroll, and enjoy all that Encompass has to offer. We can’t wait to meet you!
