News

April has been designated as the Month of the Young Child. Trying Together is taking part in and hosting events and opportunities to tout the importance of early child care and celebrate organizations that provide vital services.

History

The Week of the Young Child was first established in 1971 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Its aim was to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and recognize early childhood programs and services that are centered around those needs.

Over time, increased interest led Trying Together to designate the entire month of April as the Month of the Young Child (MOYC). We celebrate MOYC to elevate the important work of families and early care and education professionals, who strive to meet the needs of the young children in their care. 

Events

There are a number of great events to celebrate the Month of the Young Child. These include:

Week of the Young Child Events at the Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center – The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center will have special programming to celebrate young children and their caregivers the week of April 7. Learn more.

2025 Annual Celebration of Early Childhood Educators Dinner – Trying Together will join early care and education colleagues from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 10 at Acrisure Stadium for dinner, a photo booth, and prizes. There is currently a wait-list for this event.

Annual Early Childhood Education Affiliate Dinner – On Tuesday, April 8, this event at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg will feature a dinner and lecture with Dr. Eboni M. Zamani-Gallaher, a leading authority on educational organization and leadership. The event kicks off at 4:30 p.m. at the university’s gymnasium in Chambers Hall and the lecture will follow at 6:45 p.m. More details are available online.

NAEYC Week of the Young Child – The NAEYC will celebrate daily themes as part of its Week of the Young Child from April 5 to 11. Visit the NAEYC’s website for more information on the daily themes and activity resources.