Excited young girl in a classroom, with smaller photos showing kids playing and doing activities in the background.

PWCS is proud to celebrate the Week of the Young Child, April 11–17, 2026. This annual event recognizes the importance of early childhood education and the educators, families, and communities who support young learners.

Organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the week highlights the critical role that high-quality early learning experiences play in a child’s development and long-term success in school and life.

By investing in early childhood education, PWCS is helping ensure that every child enters kindergarten ready to learn, grow, and succeed—reinforcing the idea that supporting young learners today helps build a stronger community tomorrow.

Observed each spring, Week of the Young Child focuses on the needs of young children from birth through age 8 and emphasizes the value of hands-on, engaging learning opportunities that build strong foundations in literacy, math, social-emotional development, and creativity.

Each day features a unique theme that encourages families and educators to engage children in meaningful, joyful learning experiences:

  • Music Monday – Singing, dancing, and exploring rhythm to support language and motor development
  • Tasty Tuesday – Learning about healthy foods and nutrition through hands-on activities
  • Work Together Wednesday – Building teamwork and social skills through collaborative play
  • Artsy Thursday – Expressing creativity through art and imaginative exploration
  • Family Friday – Strengthening connections between families and schools

These themes reflect the importance of learning through play—an approach that research shows is essential to early childhood development.

PWCS recognizes that families are a child’s first and most important teachers. Week of the Young Child provides an opportunity for parents and caregivers to engage with their children in simple, meaningful ways—whether reading together, cooking a meal, creating art, or exploring music and movement at home.

Families are encouraged to participate by incorporating the daily themes into their routines and celebrating the joy of learning together.

To learn more about PWCS Preschool Programs, visit the program webpage.