For young children, the future of their academic success and development relies on early learning.
Each year, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) acknowledges the importance of educating young children by holding a week-long celebration focused on the earliest learners and honoring those who teach them.
This national celebration, known as the Week of the Young Child (WOYC), gives early childhood programs, community organizers and state and local affiliates an opportunity to host events and activities for early learners, teachers, and families.
How you can get involved
The NAEYC website provides the resources you need to plan an event or activity. For every day during the week of April 16, a learning topic is highlighted to create specific activities for families and your local community.
April 16 – Music Monday
Not only does music develop creativity, but children can learn literacy, language, and math skills through music. Learn a new song or invite a musician to perform a sing-along for your class.
April 17 – Tasty Tuesday
Create healthy snacks and learn how to follow recipes. This day focuses on teaching young children about healthy eating and fitness. Have children try making an easy recipe. You can even bring in parents to cook a recipe with their child.
April 18 – Work Together Wednesday
Help young children develop social skills and learn to work together by building together. Children can make a fort or build a block city in the classroom.
April 19 – Artsy Thursday
Art is very important for developing creativity and fine motor skills. Have children explore their senses through creating shapes with playdough, or teach children about drawing different patterns.
April 20 – Family Friday
Celebrate those who support young learners. Family stories and pictures are shared on this day to acknowledge the role families play in a child’s learning. Parents can read a favorite children’s book to their early learner or take their child on a picnic.
More Resources
Resources for each day of this week-long event are available on NAEYC’s Activity page.
You can also get involved on social media by sharing photos on Facebook and Twitter throughout the week with the hashtag #woyc18.
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