The Connecticut Association for the Education of Young Children promotes high quality early learning for all children, birth through age 8 by connecting practice, policy and research.
We advance a diverse, dynamic early childhood profession and support all who care,
educate and work on behalf of young children.
WHAT'S HAPPENING AT CTAEYC
This week, members of the CTAEYC team traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the
2026 NAEYC Public Policy Forum, a powerful national gathering focused on advocacy,
leadership, and advancing early childhood education.
The Public Policy Forum brings educators and advocates together to strengthen advocacy skills,
expand policy knowledge, and connect directly with policymakers on the issues that matter most
to young children, families, and the early childhood workforce.
Throughout the week, our team engaged in learning sessions, collaborative strategy conversations,
and meaningful discussions with national and state leaders. We were proud to represent Connecticut,
elevate the voices of our members, and advocate for policies that support high-quality early learning for all.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to learn, connect, and bring new energy back to our work,
because when educators use their voices together, real change happens.
CTAEYC board members and staff spent the week learning and collaborating with early childhood education leaders from across the country at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Annual Conference.
We are excited to bring fresh ideas and renewed energy back to the early childhood community here in Connecticut.
Karen Rainville, Jean Barresi, and Maegan Adams
presented at the ERS Conference in Las Vegas.
Their session, “Building Systems for Success", highlights the intentional structures
and partnerships we’ve built across the state to support programs,
coaches, and raters in using the ERS tools as a lever for quality.
A big shoutout to the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood for their leadership and
investment in this initiative, as well as their commitment to building a
Quality Improvement System of aligned supports across Connecticut.
Early Childhood Educators from around the state
joined CTAEYC and CTECA at the state capitol
for a day of advocacy and community.
Affiliate leaders gathered at NAEYC headquarters in DC this week! CTAEYC Executive Director Karen Rainville enjoyed networking with colleagues from across the country.
Staffed Family Child Care Workshops
The Network will host networking dinners and workshops throughout the year. To ensure you're on the list, please be sure to join your local network by completing this interest form: https://hub.211childcare.org/membership-interest-form/
Discover professional development opportunities
Up-to-date resources and how to stay connected
