National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is the largest early childhood organization in the United States. Established in 1926, NAEYC sets standards for programs and teachers. NAEYC has 300 local affiliates and about 80,000 members. NAEYC promotes professional development for educators and advances policies supporting early learning. In 2015, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine called for preschool teachers to have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood development or education. NAEYC supports national accreditation for early care and education programs. This accreditation system sets standards for program quality and promotes improvement. NAEYC encourages supporters to be informed of issues and legislation affecting young children.
Early Childhood Education Organizations
The largest employer sponsored child care system is the United States military. Goodstart Early Learning Ltd and G8 Education Limited hold the largest Australian child care market share. The Reggio Emilia approach inspires early childhood educators worldwide. OMEP-USNC focuses on education and welfare of children under 8 years old. ZERO TO THREE supports healthy development of infants, toddlers and families.
Challenges and Considerations
Little research establishes standards for quality early childhood education programs. However, NAEYC identifies evidence-based standards and accredits programs. The federal government could establish standards for states, like with Common Core. Staff turnover averages 31% yearly in early childhood education. The average teaching assistant earns under $25,000 with few benefits. Market share concentration is low for early childhood centers in the US.