Week of the Young Child

posted on Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Each year, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) sponsors the Week of the Young Child taking place the first full week in April. This celebratory week is spent focusing public attention on the needs of young children and their families while recognizing the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.

The staff and kiddos at EPI's Hawkeye Child Development Center - ALC took part in the celebration by expanding the following themed days.

• Music Monday: Staff pulled out musical instruments for children to explore and asked parents to submit their child(ren)'s favorite songs.
• Tasty Tuesday: Teachers picked out tasty food for children to make.
• Work Together Wednesday: Children used cardboard boxes, recycled materials and tape to build and create something new.
• Artsy Thursday: Teachers picked out an activity and weren't afraid to get messy!
• Family Friday: Staff welcomed families for a grab and go breakfast. 

Though the first NAEYC Week of the Young Child was established in 1971, today we know more now than ever about the importance of children's earliest years in shaping their learning and development. Children learn so much through music, exploring food, building together and creating art.

We look forward to this week long event every year!