early childhood education | Arizona Early Childhood

Advocacy resources for Arizona educators celebrating the Week of the Young Child

Madison Anderson
March 26, 2026

Every April, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) plans the Week of the Young Child (WOYC). This week is used to celebrate young children, their families and the educators who support them. It’s also a time to highlight advocacy opportunities that support the early childhood field. People around the country show their support by following NAEYC’s WOYC daily themes, planning events and finding local ways to advocate. Stepping into the advocacy space can be scary. You…

Child care safety hazards: Steps you can take to keep kids safe in the classroom

Laurel Rodriquez
September 18, 2025

TAGS: child care hazards, child care safety, early childhood, early childhood education, infant safety, toddler safety,

By Quality First Assessor, Laurel Rodriquez When you step into a child care program, whether center-based or home-based, you’ll notice art masterpieces, calming spaces, shelves full of colorful books and blocks stacked high. But tucked between the tables, cozy corners and play spaces, there can also be safety hazards, some obvious and some hidden. I promise, this is not about bubble-wrapping every corner. This is about spotting little things that can make a big difference in children’s safety. Electrical outlet…

Your guide to an early childhood education career in Arizona

Madison Anderson
July 28, 2025

TAGS: Arizona Registry, career development, college scholarships, early childhood education, First Things First, PCPP, Professional Development,

Thinking about an early childhood career but not sure where to start? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Whether you're just starting or returning to school, the Arizona Early Childhood Workforce Registry is your go-to hub for scholarships and credentials, with the Arizona Early Childhood Professional Development Network being your guide to accomplish your early childhood career goals! Even better? First Things First (FTF) and the Professional Career Pathway Project (PCPP) offer early…

Celebrating Arizona’s 2025 early childhood education graduates

Madison Anderson
May 27, 2025

TAGS: Arizona graduates, college scholarships, early childhood education, First Things First, Professional Development,

This year marks a significant milestone for early childhood education in Arizona. Maricopa Community Colleges proudly celebrates the first early childhood education graduates from the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education - Dual Language program at Mesa Community College. This program is a game-changer for Arizona’s early childhood professionals. A new path for working professionals in early childhood education Mesa Community College is one of only two community colleges in Arizona offering a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.…