First 5 San Bernardino and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital promote Week of the Young Child

First 5 San Bernardino and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital staff pose in front of an indoor display of colorfully decorated paper dolls. — *Hospital’s paper doll artwork display symbolizes the need to prioritize children.*

For the second consecutive year, First 5 San Bernardino and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital partnered to celebrate the annual Week of the Young Child.

Held this year from April 11-18, the two organizations are bringing attention to the importance of prioritizing children’s health and development. To symbolize this, the Children’s Hospital’s lobby was transformed once again into an art gallery by displaying colorful paper dolls decorated by the hospital’s littlest patients. From hand-drawn self-portraits to iconic TV characters, these children expressed themselves through their unique art pieces, turning the lobby into a corridor of hope.

“Child health is a core pillar of First 5 San Bernardino,” said Scott McGrath, deputy director at First 5 San Bernardino. “During the Week of the Young Child, we collectively focus public attention on the unique needs of young children and recognize the early childhood programs and services that address those needs.”

The paper doll display is designed to remind people not only of the children’s creativity, but also of the role communities have in coming together in support of young children and their families.

“Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and First 5 San Bernardino are aligned with a common goal of wanting the best health and wellness for children in the Inland Empire,” said Peter Baker, senior vice president of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. “The Week of the Young Child is a great opportunity to bring awareness to the work that we do in advocating for these kids.”

Check out First 5 San Bernardino’s Instagram page to get a good look at the artwork this year for Week of the Young Child.

For more information, visit First5SanBernardino.org.

Additional County Update News – April 16, 2026