Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (AEYC) brings together communities, leaders, parents, providers, and educators who believe all Idaho’s children deserve a chance at quality early learning to help them grow and develop.

The early years are a time of remarkable brain growth in children and lay the foundation for subsequent learning and development. Investments in quality care and early education translate into direct returns for the state, our communities, and greater society. Idaho AEYC works to improve the quality of child care and raise awareness about the importance of early education.

Our Work

Young children in a classroom, early childhood education
Idaho AEYC works toward our goals through various projects, groups, and collaboratives.
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Our Team

Young children doing a puzzle at a table, early childhood education
Meet Our Team

Board of Directors

Small boy playing with blocks laying on floor
Meet the Board

Strategic Direction

map of idaho
Read Idaho AEYC's comprehensive five year plan
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Core Values

  • Appreciate early childhood as a unique and critical stage of development.
  • Base our work on knowledge of how children develop and learn.
  • Appreciate and support the bond between the child and family.
  • Recognize that children are best understood and supported in the context of family, culture, community, and society.
  • Respect the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of every individual (child, family member, and those who work on behalf of young children).
  • Respect diversity in children, families, and those who work on behalf of young children.
  • Recognize that children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect.

Core Beliefs

  • Excellence and Innovation — We are imaginative risk-takers willing to challenge assumptions while being accountable and fiscally responsible. 
  • Transparency — We act with openness and clarity. 
  • Reflection — We consider multiple sources of evidence and diverse perspectives to review past performance, note progress and successes, and engage in continuous quality improvement. 
  • Equity and Opportunity — We advocate for policies, practices, and systems that promote full and inclusive participation. We work to remove biases that create barriers and limit the potential of children, families, and those who work on behalf of young children. 
  • Collaborative Relationships — We lead through collaborative partnerships. We commit time and effort to ensure diverse participation and more effective outcomes. We act with integrity, respect, and trust.
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