Wen young children thrive, communities thrive. That belief is at the heart of “Childhood Matters,” presented by The Florida Center for Early Childhood to spark meaningful conversations about the importance of early care and education. Nationally recognized early childhood policy expert Dr. Dan Wuori—a senior fellow at the Hunt Institute and former director of early learning for South Carolina—will headline the program. Drawing from his groundbreaking book, The Daycare Myth: What We Get Wrong About Early Care and Education, Dr. Wuori will challenge common misconceptions and explore why early childhood issues affect everyone—not just parents and educators. The event takes place Thursday, April 10, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N. Palm Avenue in Sarasota. Tickets are $75 and include lunch, the keynote presentation, and a signed copy of Dr. Wuori’s book for the first 75 registrants. For tickets and more information, visit TheFloridaCenter.org or call Shannon Clement at 941-371-8820.