Early Childhood Week, also known as the Week of the Young Child (WOYC), is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This year, it will be observed from April 5 to April 11. The event underscores the significance of early childhood education and honors young children, their educators, families, and communities.

Research highlights the profound long-term effects of early childhood education on a child’s development. Studies indicate that high-quality early education is linked to positive outcomes such as lower rates of criminal justice involvement, higher likelihood of completing high school and pursuing further education, fewer chronic diseases, and improved overall health. Furthermore, early childhood education fosters cognitive development, social skills, and learning abilities, which directly impact children’s readiness to succeed in formal schooling and beyond.

The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted America’s childcare community. Many childcare programs faced financial challenges due to tuition losses and low enrollment, compounded by the rising costs of new safety measures. By March 2021, nearly 16,000 childcare programs had closed, and a significant portion of the early learning workforce had lost their jobs or left the field. Additionally, the pandemic led to chronic absences, student depression, and a shift in parental perspectives on the role of education. Many children missed opportunities to develop and practice social and emotional skills during this time.

During Early Childhood Week, our children and staff in the Early Childhood Programs will engage in various enjoyable activities:

• Music Monday: Students will create instruments and participate in a parade. Dress in purple!
• Tasty Tuesday: Explore taste buds with a treat by following a recipe and cooking.
• Work Together Wednesday: When children build together, they experience teamwork and develop their social and early literacy skills.
• Artsy Thursday: Children will explore different mediums and create a masterpiece.
• Family Friday: A Garden Party for families.

We look forward to celebrating this special week!