Based on years of research, we have a deep understanding of the importance of children’s earliest years in laying a foundation for learning and development. The human brain continues to develop and change throughout life, but the early years offer an opportunity for neurodevelopment, growth, and health. In fact, during the first 2000 days, between birth and kindergarten, 90% of a person’s brain growth occurs…90% (First Things First)!
Little bodies and minds are doing BIG things during this short period. Everyday experiences build paths of brain connections, the more unique experiences, the more paths. Wyoming’s Coherent Path to Quality says, “The best way to learn and grow is in the context of positive relationships and interactions where the environment is safe for the risks associated with learning to take place and where there are many and varied opportunities to activate curiosity, explore, and investigate.”
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) designates one week each year to Week of the Young Child (WOYC). WOYC, April 2-8, is a fun-filled week celebrating early learning, young children, their teachers, families, and communities
- Kick-off Saturday: Plan for the week of celebrations!
- Music Monday: Develop language and early literacy skills while being active and encouraging movement.
- Tasty Tuesday: Cooking together connects math with literacy skills, science, and more.
- Work Together Wednesday: Develop social and early literacy skills. Grab some materials and create!
- Artsy Thursday: Develop creativity, social skills, and fine muscles with open-ended art projects that let them make choices, use their imaginations, and create with their hands.
- Family Friday: Engaging and celebrating families is at the heart of supporting our youngest learners.
Visit the NAEYC resources page for more detail and ideas on celebrating young children and their families.