Rock Valley College Honors Week of the Young Child 2026

Rock Valley College Honors Week of the Young Child 2026

• Students
• 04/13/2026

Rock Valley College is proud to join communities across the nation in celebrating the Week of the Young Child (WOYC) April 13 - 18, 2026, an annual initiative led by the National Association for the Education of Young Children that highlights the importance of early learning, young children, their teachers, families, and communities.

This week-long celebration emphasizes that Early Childhood Education (ECE) is not just care, it is the foundation for lifelong learning, development, and success.

Throughout the week, RVC is recognizing the national WOYC themes that promote hands-on learning, creativity, and family engagement:

Music Monday

Encouraging movement and early literacy through song and rhythm.

Tasty Tuesday

Exploring health and nutrition through cooking and shared meals

Work Together Wednesday

Building collaboration and STEM skills through hands-on projects

Artsy Thursday

Inspiring creativity with open-ended art experiences

Family Friday

Honoring the essential connection between families and education

Spotlight on Excellence: ECE at RVC

A special recognition goes to Isabel Cano, ECE Program Coordinator, for her outstanding leadership in preparing for and hosting a successful NAEYC accreditation site visit. Her dedication reflects the high standards and commitment to quality that define RVC's Early Childhood Education program.

Why Early Childhood Education Matters

Early Childhood Education goes far beyond supervision or basic care. While childcare (or "daycare") ensures children are safe and supported, ECE is an intentional, research-based approach to learning that focuses on:

• Brain development during the most critical years (birth to age 5)
• Social-emotional growth and relationship building
• Early literacy, language, and problem-solving skills
• Developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences

High-quality ECE programs, like those at RVC, are designed and led by trained professionals who understand how children learn best-through exploration, interaction, and guided discovery.

Join Us in the Community

RVC's ECE program will continue the celebration by participating in the Free Family Fun Fair:

Harlem High School
Saturday, April 18, 9 AM - 12 PM

Families are invited to stop by, connect with the ECE team, and enjoy engaging activities that highlight the joy and importance of early learning.

Celebrating the Future

At Rock Valley College, investing in early childhood education is an investment in the community's future. WOYC is a time to celebrate the educators, families, and young learners who make that future possible every day.

Media Contact

• RVC Public Relations
• (815) 921-4510
• Email RVC Public Relations
• RVC Communications Page