Week of the Young Child
Celebrate Early Learning During Week of the Young Child
Join us for NAEYC’s 2026 Week of the Young Child® celebration April 11-17, 2026! This year is extra special: We are celebrating Week of the Young Child 100 days into NAEYC’s 100th year, honoring a century of dedication to young children and the educators who make a difference every day.
Each April, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) invites educators, families, and communities to come together for the Week of the Young Child® (WOYC)—a joyful celebration of early learning, young children, and the adults who support them. Through themed days like Music Monday, Tasty Tuesday, and Artsy Thursday, WOYC highlights the critical role of play, creativity, and collaboration in a child’s development. It’s a time to recognize the importance of high-quality early childhood education and to advocate for the professionals who make it possible.
Whether you're a teacher planning engaging experiences, a parent looking to celebrate at home, or a community leader ready to amplify the message, WOYC offers a wealth of resources and inspiration. From hands-on art projects and cooking explorations to building teamwork and celebrating families, each day of the week is designed to spark joy and learning.
Join the movement, share your celebrations on social media using #WOYC26, and help shine a spotlight on the power of early childhood education—celebrating NAEYC’s 100 years of progress and inspiring the next 100!
Learn more about WOYC happening April 11-17, 2026!
WOYC Daily Themes
WOYC Activities and Resources
WOYC Frequently Asked Questions
Event Map & Proclamations
As part of the celebration, we map local and state proclamations across the country and invite educators from outside of the United States to share their celebrations.
By participating in the Week of the Young Child® and posting of content/images-- including photos, videos, audio, text, graphics, or other related materials-- you represent that you have the authority to post such items, and have obtained written permission from each identifiable person, to post the content/images and use the likeness of such person therein. To the extent content or images of a minor are contained in the posting, you further represent that you have obtained written permission from the minor’s parent or legal guardian.
By posting such content as described and your use of campaign hashtags (such as #WOYC or #WOYC [year]) or by tagging NAEYC social media accounts, you grant NAEYC the right and license to use the content/images, or any portion thereof, in any manner it so chooses, without limitation, worldwide, in all present and future media. This includes but is not limited to NAEYC’s posting or sharing the content/images on NAEYC’s website, social media accounts or apps, and other NAEYC communication channels and waive any right to inspect or approve the use of any such materials that NAEYC may choose to utilize.
The term Week of the Young Child® is a registered trademark of NAEYC and no ownership or rights are transferred to you in connection with your posting.