Early Childhood Educators of New York
Unite & Inspire
Make a Collective Impact.
Join the early learning and child care providers telling their stories in New York Works for Children’s exciting new project, which aims to provide a space to feature diverse perspectives and shared experiences.
Your Story Matters
We want to highlight the important narratives that live behind the data. By contributing your voice, you will be promoting a more profound understanding and informed appreciation for the triumphs and challenges in the early learning community.
Read and Connect
Your story will be shared on our social media platforms and website. Our audience will include other early childhood educators, decision-makers, and the general public.
Scroll down to tell your story or recommend someone you think would be a good fit for this project!
Denise's Story
I’ve always been a helper, even when I was younger, which is why I think for my undergrad, I teeter-tottered between social work and education...
Connie's Story
Our profession is all about teaching. It's important to remember that we are also always learning. We learn from other teachers, directors, and from our professional development...
Shaquam's Story
My professional journey has involved applying and adapting educational practices while fostering meaningful relationships with children, parents, colleagues, and administrators...
Lina's Story
I taught at different schools with different demographics. I was an assistant director and worked on the administrative side. I learned a lot working in different areas of education. It was rewarding, but I went back to pre-K because I just loved the fact that I was honored with this child that’s raw and still in the throes of the joys of life...
Yohaina's Story
I’ve been really lucky to work with parents who trust and value my program’s approach. Many of them understand that their children will learn and develop here, but that it doesn’t have to be with pencil and paper...
Christina's Story
The work is exhausting but something I find a lot of joy in. I can see the growth, and I can see the families are happy. I feel like the work is not a measurable success in the immediate - but it’s something very special, and I want to continue to do it...
Debra's Story
Many of the students had behavioral challenges, especially because preschoolers are still building their self-awareness and the ability to follow directions. I think it’s important to recognize that these children are caring and intelligent even if they hit or misbehave...
Frida's Story
This work is by far the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But it’s also the most meaningful. In our program, we work hard to make sure teachers are respected for their expertise and parents feel like true partners. At the heart of everything we do is one guiding principle: children's development comes first...
Ginny's Story
The push for kindergarten can be stressful for parents, but children need time to develop their own intrinsic voice before they get to school. If they don’t have a chance to let it out, it builds up, and we see problem behaviors in classrooms. Art is a great way to help children navigate those feelings and express what they’re trying to tell us...
Amy's Story
As a single mom and immigrant, I want others (especially women like me) to feel proud of their journey in child care. I hope my story reminds them that even when things don’t go as planned, they can still find a purpose, be influential, and discover something bigger than we ever imagined...
Josephine's Story
I continue to study and learn new techniques to better understand psychology. The more tools I have, the better I can support these children. Many cases are tough. But when I see a child connect, communicate, or take one small step forward, I know it’s worth it...
Claire's Story
I have great memories of my afterschool experiences: learning to tie my shoes, trying new foods, and making friends.
So many important things happen during those few hours each day. The biggest value afterschool provides, just like early childhood programs, is a safe space...
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