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Hello friends. As we move into July and prepare to celebrate America 250, I’ve been thinking back on some of the Independence Day traditions of my childhood. The 4th of July week was a big deal in my hometown.
Arts and craft fairs, patriotic concerts in the park, an agricultural fair, a midnight madness shopping night, a huge parade with every fire truck for miles, and of course, the fireworks. The moments that really stayed with me were the small family ones. My grandmother’s joy walking through the quilt and baked goods display to see if any of her friends had won a blue ribbon.
My grandfather’s joy at the demolition derby. My dad, he never missed the fair food. His favorite were the doughboys, which is the northern version of the funnel cake.
My mom, she made sure my sister and I always had matching patriotic outfits. The cousins always had enough sparklers and bug spray to get us through the fireworks. America 250 marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and while it’s an important moment to look back on, it also invites us to look forward to the future that we’re helping create for young children.
It’s a powerful reminder that our future is being shaped right now in your homes and classrooms. The children you guide today will become the leaders, thinkers, and the problem solvers of tomorrow. Your work is part of something much bigger than this celebration.
In this changing landscape, you’re a steady presence. You create safe, nurturing environments where children feel seen, supported, and ready to learn. Even as systems evolve, the heart of this work, your relationships with children and families, remain strong and essential.
So I want to encourage you, stay rooted in your purpose, stay connected to one another, and continue believing in the impact you’re making because it’s real and it’s lasting. Thank you for building the future one child, one family, and one meaningful interaction at a time. The Arkansas Early Childhood Association sees you, values you, and we’re with you through every season of change.
As always, I’m cheering you on.
Julie Yarberry
President of AECA
Connect with me at president@arkansasearlychildhood.org
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