The Connecticut Association for the Education of Young Children is a proud affiliate of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. 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.

Our core values are defined in the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and are deeply rooted in the early childhood profession. Our core values reflect our belief that all children have the right to equitable learning opportunities and that all early childhood educators have a professional obligation to advance equity.  We seek to be a high–performing, inclusive organization that is enriched by and continually grows from our commitment to diversity, as embodied by the following core values:

•  Excellence and Innovation—We are imaginative risk takers willing to challenge assumptions while being accountable to our mission and members and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

•  Transparency—We act with openness and clarity.

• Reflection—We consider multiple sources of evidence and diverse perspectives to review past performance, note progress and successes, and engage in continuous quality improvement.

• Equity and Opportunity—We advocate for policies, practices, and systems that promote full and inclusive participation. We confront biases that create barriers and limit the potential of children, families, and early childhood professionals.

• Collaborative Relationships—We share leadership and responsibility in our work with others. We commit time and effort to ensure diverse participation and more effective outcomes. We act with integrity, respect, and trust.

• Care and Commitment— We are dedicated to the well-being, belonging and connectedness of our staff, volunteers and members.