The Week of the Young Child is an annual event that celebrates early childhood education and the importance of supporting young children and their families. This event takes place during the month of April and is organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This weeklong event is celebrated each year to highlight the importance of early childhood education and to recognize the hard work of teachers and staff who work with young children. The City of Lebanon Mayor McNamara proclaimed April 1 - 7, 2023 as the Week of the Young Child in Lebanon at the March 29, 2023, City Council meeting.
Early childhood education is essential to a child’s development. During this time, children learn and acquire skills that will help them throughout their lives. Experiences during this period help to shape and form a child’s future. This is why it is important to have quality early education programs. These programs provide a safe and nurturing environment that helps to foster learning and development.
In New Hampshire, many businesses are struggling to recruit and retain their workforce. Business owners have identified the availability of high-quality, affordable, safe, and reliable childcare as an important component of solving the burgeoning workforce crisis. Early childhood education allows parents to remain in the workforce and builds a strong and future-focused economy. The lack of early childhood education is a serious problem in New Hampshire. Currently, 71% of children from birth through five have all available parents in the workforce. Women of color and other disadvantaged populations bear the most significant burden and women are disproportionately impacted by the lack of childcare options and are more likely to leave the workforce to provide childcare stunting their ability to earn income, advance in their career field, and build their future retirement security.
The Week of the Young Child is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood education and to advocate for policies and programs that support young children and their families. It is an important reminder for parents, caregivers, and educators that the quality of early childhood education should always be taken into account when considering a child’s future.
Overall, the Week of the Young Child is an important event to recognize and celebrate the importance of providing quality early childhood education. By supporting early childhood education, we are investing in our children's futures and ensuring they have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in school and in life.
Thank you to all who work with our young children!