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Week of the Young Child

A fun-filled week celebrating early learning, young children, their teachers, families, and communities.

Celebrate Early Learning During Week of the Young Child

Join us for NAEYC’s 2026 Week of the Young Child® celebration happening April 11-17, 2026! Our annual event celebrating early learning, young children, their teachers, and families.

Every 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 classroom activities, a parent looking to engage 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 #WOYC, and help shine a spotlight on the power of early childhood education.

Learn more about WOYC happening April 11-17, 2026!

One boy

What Is WOYC?

Members Only
Mother and two sons sitting at the kitchen table and laughing

WOYC Overview

Members Only

Event Map & Proclamations

As part of the celebration, we map local proclamations that are introduced and/or signed across the nation and invite educators from outside of the United States to share their celebrations.

A young boy and girl looking at a map on a table

See the Fun on Social Media!

Check out FacebookX, and Instagram to follow the celebration for #WOYC26!

By participating in this event and posting video and/or photos, you are representing that you have written permission from each person in the video and/or photos, and if a child, written permission from the child's parent or legal guardian, to post the video and/or photos and use the likeness of such person therein. By posting the video and/or photos, you grant NAEYC the right to use the video and/or photo and/or any portion thereof in any manner it so chooses, including, without limitation, posting or sharing the video on NAEYC's website, Facebook page, Instagram or X (formerly known as Twitter) account.