The Western Illinois Museum, in collaboration with the WIU Infant and Preschool Center, will host a special community event on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, from 11 am to 3 pm. This event marks the launch of the Sunday Storytelling series–an opportunity for community members of all ages to enjoy engaging activities, meaningful conversations, and lively performances. Come connect, play, and reflect on our shared history as we work together to shape its future. There is a suggested $5 donation at the door.

The day begins with interactive play stations from 11 to 1 pm led by WIU Early Childhood Education students. Popup activities will include a sing-along at 11:30 am, storytime at 12 pm, and a reader’s theater at 12:30 pm. All activities will incorporate the “seven things”– create, move, sing, discuss, observe, read, and play– that the WIU Infant and Preschool Center includes each day to build a foundation for learning.

At 1 pm, the focus will shift to a community conversation reflecting on our area’s strong and deeply-rooted legacy of education–and how we can come together to support our local children and teachers today. The discussion provides a unique opportunity to learn about Macomb’s heritage as a center for teacher training, beginning with the establishment of the Western Illinois State Normal School in 1899. By 1900, the town’s first free kindergarten opened with 39 children ages three to six, followed by the Laboratory School in 1902. This event not only celebrates that legacy but also raises awareness of the importance of early childhood education and issues facing it in our community today. Light refreshments will be served following the discussion.