The Week of the Young Child (WOYC) is an annual
celebration sponsored by the National
Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). During this week early childhood education
programs, individuals and advocate organizations will focus on bringing public
attention to the needs of your children and their families. The theme for the celebration awareness is
“Early Years Are Learning Years”, remember children learn everything in the
first five years needed that will be built upon as they continue to grow and
mature into adulthood.
If you would like to assist with this awareness but
cannot think of what to do then just select one or more of these
activities. Contact local child care
facilities and ask to read stories to the children (remember to ask for book
titles and practice before reading to children). Ask local child care facility what events
they have planned and how you can volunteer.
If you attend special events (e.g., church, civic organizations) ask
leaders to give recognition to children, families and those who work for or
with young children highlighting the importance of educating our youngest
citizens. Conduct a brown-bag lunch
gathering to inform colleagues of the week and why it is important to share
what young children are gaining from being in structured facilities and those
who work with them. In addition, share
with the group how they can help to make these learning years more effective
for the lives of children in the communities they live in.
Hopefully, these activities have given you some ways
to celebrate and bring awareness for WOYC in your community. Remember, knowledge is powerful.
