On weekday mornings, early learning classrooms in Canyon County fill with sensory bins, storybooks, and young children racing between activities alongside their parents.
It looks like a room full of families having fun, but behind every activity is the goal of helping parents understand that playing is one of the most powerful ways children learn.
The Idaho Association of Education for Young Children (Idaho AEYC) hosted its annual Early Learning Collaborative (ELC) Symposium on June 12-13, bringing together educators, advocates, leaders, and community partners from across the state for two days of learning and collaboration.
Two major data points about Idaho surfaced recently, and together they tell a story we can no longer ignore. ReadyNation’s new analysis estimates that Idaho loses $688 million every year because parents cannot access reliable child care.
Idaho AEYC proudly hosted Early Learning Day at the Idaho State Capitol on February 3, 2026. The event brought together 24 early childhood organizations from across the state to meet directly with policymakers and show them the real work happening in Idaho’s early learning communities.
We are thrilled to be welcoming Nicole Criner back to the Idaho AEYC Team!
Previously serving on staff as our External Relations and Development Director and then most recently on our Board of Directors, Nicole Criner comes to the role of Executive Director with knowledge and experience. She is truly a champion of Early Education already and we can't wait to support her vision for Idaho AEYC's future.
Idaho AEYC is excited to introduce our new “Waiting Is Hard” kits, designed for partners, businesses, and organizations where families often spend time waiting—like doctor’s offices, community centers, or other places families visit regularly. These kits are filled with simple, engaging activities that help reduce stress, spark connection, and turn waiting moments into opportunities for learning and fun.
Idaho AEYC was thrilled to welcome Early Learning Collaborative (ELC) leaders from across the state to Boise for the annual ELC Symposium from October 3-4. The event brought together passionate educators, community partners, and advocates to share ideas, celebrate achievements, and strengthen Idaho’s early learning system. Attendees participated in interactive sessions, learned about innovative programs, and exchanged strategies and resources to better support children and families.
Idaho AEYC participated in the 19th annual Community Baby Shower on June 11, 2025, collecting donations at Albe
