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Jersey City 3-Year-Old Reaches Late Round of ‘Toddler of the Year’ Contest and Fundraiser

Source: Jersey City Times · Aug 2, 2026, 6:00 AM

AI-assisted briefing from the publisher’s public headline and excerpt — not original reporting. How we write briefings

Gabby Mateo, a 3-year-old from Jersey City, has advanced to a late round of a national "Toddler of the Year" competition.

Her mother, Jessica Gladstone, a Jersey City teacher, entered Gabby in the contest after learning about the competition, which offers a $25,000 prize to the winner.

Gabby is known for her outgoing personality and distinctive gap-toothed smile. The contest appears to double as a fundraiser, combining entertainment with charitable giving.

Gabby's advancement represents a notable achievement for the young Jersey City resident in this nationwide competition.

Key points

  • Gabby Mateo, age 3, from Jersey City has reached the late round of a national 'Toddler of the Year' competition
  • Her mother Jessica Gladstone, a Jersey City teacher, submitted Gabby's entry to the contest
  • The competition offers a $25,000 grand prize to the winner
  • The contest functions as both a competition and a fundraiser
  • Gabby is described as having a big personality with a distinctive gap-toothed smile

FAQ

What is the 'Toddler of the Year' competition?
It is a national competition where parents can enter their toddlers for a chance to win and be recognized. The contest appears to serve dual purposes as both a competition and a fundraiser.
How much money can the winner receive?
The grand prize winner of the 'Toddler of the Year' competition receives $25,000.
Who is Gabby Mateo and why was she entered?
Gabby Mateo is a 3-year-old from Jersey City known for her outgoing personality and distinctive smile. Her mother, Jessica Gladstone, a Jersey City teacher, entered her in the competition believing Gabby's personality would be a good fit for the contest.
What round of the competition is Gabby currently in?
Gabby has advanced to the late round of the national 'Toddler of the Year' competition, indicating she has progressed past earlier eliminations.

Briefing prepared for NJ News Hub. Verify details on the original story. See our editorial policy.

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