DE SCR24

Designates April 2-8, 2023, as "Week of the Young Child" in Delaware, marking the 52nd anniversary of this annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Recognizes that early childhood years (birth through age 8) are critical for children's development, with infant brains doubling in size during the first year and reaching 80% of adult size by age 3.

Affirms that high-quality early childhood education provides significant benefits to children, families, and state and national economies, including ameliorating poverty effects and improving school readiness.

Calls for recognition of early childhood educators' critical work and urges community support for efforts to increase access to high-quality early childhood education with adequate compensation and workplace benefits.

Emphasizes the need for skilled, educated, diverse educators; accessible child care spaces from birth; strong regulatory structures; and subsidies and tax credits to support families at all income levels.