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Hello AECA members and friends! There’s something special about August. Whether you’re welcoming children for the very first time, preparing your classroom, supporting educators behind the scenes, or simply finding your rhythm again after a busy summer, this season always feels like a fresh beginning.
As we head back into a new school year, I want to offer three simple reminders. First, remember that relationships come first. Children, families, and colleagues will always remember how you made them feel. Take the time to learn their nicknames, notice their favorite things, and have some meaningful conversations. Those are the moments that will set the foundation for everything that follows.
Second, give yourself permission to begin imperfectly. The first few weeks don’t have to be flawless. We’re all learning together, and progress is always more important than perfection.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Celebrate the small wins every day. The work that you do matters, and so do you.
As we continue growing together this fall, I hope you’ll join us for the Arkansas Early Childhood Association Conference, October 7th through 9th in North Little Rock. This year’s conference theme is Uniting Our Purpose, Lifting Our Voices, and there will be an opportunity for you to reconnect with colleagues, discover new ideas, hear from engaging keynote speakers, gain practical strategies, and leave feeling refreshed and inspired for the important work that you do every day. No matter what your role is, there’s a place for you, and I’d love to see you there.
Thank you for the care, compassion, and dedication you bring to Arkansas’s youngest learners and their families.
I’m wishing you a year filled with meaningful moments, joyful discoveries, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. As always, I’m cheering you on.
Julie Yarberry
President of AECA
Connect with me at president@arkansasearlychildhood.org
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