Every year, the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (Idaho AEYC) hosts the Celebration of the Young Child Event to honor and celebrate the importance of childhood. This year’s event is scheduled for August 19, 2023, and holds special significance as we prepare for the back-to-school season.
As the end of summer nears and families gear up for a new school year, it is essential to remember the value of early childhood education and the adults who play such a crucial role in shaping the minds of Idaho’s youngest learners. Thank you to the event’s sponsors, Saint Alphonsus Medical Center, Kendall Auto Idaho, CBH Homes, and the City of Boise, for recognizing the opportunity to reflect on the importance of family, community, and education in a child’s formative years.
The event celebrates young children, and those who care for them, and it provides an opportunity for families to come together and learn more about activities, resources, and services available to them. The afternoon is filled with family-friendly activities and entertainment, from storytime to yoga, music, and interactive exhibits and crafts.
The Celebration of the Young Child event is more than just a fun-filled day. It is a reminder of the critical role that early childhood education plays in a child’s development. Research has shown that a child’s first years of life are the most important in terms of brain development, and high-quality early childhood education can have significant long-term benefits, including improved academic achievement, higher graduation rates, and lower crime and delinquency rates.
However, not all families have access to quality early childhood education, and not all caregivers have the tools and resources to provide the best possible care for young children. That’s where Idaho AEYC comes in.
Idaho AEYC is committed to promoting high-quality early learning for all young children ages 0 to 8, regardless of their background or economic status. The organization offers a variety of programs and services for caregivers and educators, including professional development opportunities and advocacy efforts to promote policies that support young children and their families.
The Celebration of the Young Child Event reminds us that we cannot afford to neglect the early years of a child’s life. It is an opportunity to celebrate childhood’s joy and wonder and recognize the importance of those who work tirelessly to support and nurture our children. Come out and join us on August 19, 2023, for an afternoon of celebration and learning as we kick off the new school year and celebrate the power and potential of Idaho’s youngest learners.
