What we do
NEXTGEN is the official family resource of Manatee County, featuring local events and good news around our community and is brought to you by the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Inc (ELC). The educational and family resource magazine is distributed to the parents of 25,000 elementary school children in 47 Manatee County schools, with an additional 8,000 distributed to over 200 childcare facilities, libraries, medical offices, hospitals and other business offices throughout the county. Our new website features local events, community updates and interactive activities and games for children of all ages.
Latest Issue
Recent Issues
Creative Ways to Keep Kids Happy (And Learning!) When You’re Stuck Indoors
Families are saying hello to a new year, but with the coronavirus pandemic still hanging around, things continue to look way different than we’re used to...
Show Some Craft This Holiday Season!
2020 was an interesting year, needless to say, but my family still has plenty of enthusiasm for the upcoming holidays, even with all the ups and downs...
Food For Thought…
One Thanksgiving, years ago, when he worked in the financial industry in Manhattan, Thomas Mantz decided he'd like to volunteer at a food bank for the...
A Wild Thing…
To the heart-tugging rhythm of his mother sobbing, Dr. Charles Tomeo – stoic and stone-faced – listened to searing words drop in painful slow motion...
Phoenix the Phenom!
When asked what she likes about Golf, Phoenix Scanlan said: "I love the winning part." This simple statement demonstrates two important things about...
How to Safely Travel with Your Kids…
While kids may be staying home more during the pandemic, keeping them safe when you need to travel is important. Using the right car seat, booster seat...