As I wrote this month’s message, I stopped to think about the numerous children entering Kindergarten classes for the first time this past month. I thought about the difference in society’s view of early learning environments compared to Kindergarten classrooms. I also thought about how much pressure our field is under to focus more on academics.
What we do in these crucial early years creates ripple effects that last a lifetime. Every day, you are laying foundations that will determine not just individual futures, but the future of our entire state. The early years are when the architecture of the brain is built. Ninety percent of brain development occurs before age five. During this critical window, you are literally shaping neural pathways, building emotional resilience, and establishing patterns of learning that will serve children throughout their lives. And while yes, we do prepare children for Kindergarten, that is not our prime focus. Research shows that the greatest benefits come from programs that focus on the whole child, not just academic skills.
I won’t pretend that our work is easy. We face significant challenges in Arkansas – from funding constraints to workforce shortages, from increasing expectations to the ongoing effects of the pandemic. Many of you are working longer hours for less compensation than your skills and education warrant. The emotional demands of caring for young children and supporting families can be exhausting.
But here’s what I want every single one of you to remember: despite these challenges, you are making an irreplaceable difference. There is no substitute for what you do. No app, no program, no technology can replace the human connection, professional expertise, and genuine care that you bring to your work every single day.
As we move through this year, the Arkansas Early Childhood Association remains committed to supporting you in this vital work. We’re advocating for better compensation, fighting for increased funding, providing professional development opportunities, and working to elevate the recognition that early childhood professionals deserve.
But perhaps most importantly, we’re here to remind you that what you do matters – not just today, not just for the children in your care right now, but for generations to come. You are teachers, nurturers, advocates, and heroes. You are shaping the future of Arkansas, one child at a time.
Thank you for your dedication, your professionalism, and your heart. Thank you for choosing this work, staying in this work, and believing in the power of those early years. Arkansas children are fortunate to have you, and so are we all.
Take care,
Natasha Kile
President of AECA
Connect with me at president@arkansasearlychildhood.org
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