Idaho Association For The Education Of Young Children

On Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM MT, you can leave a message or reach out via email at trainingoffice@idahostars.org. The Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (Idaho AEYC) serves as the state affiliate of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, which is the largest organization focused on early childhood education in the United States. Idaho has five local chapters: North Idaho AEYC, Eastern Idaho AEYC, Snake River AEYC, Treasure Valley AEYC, and Palouse Area AEYC. Our vision is to inspire and guide those who impact the lives of children in Idaho, promoting the belief that every child deserves a fulfilling childhood that nurtures their full potential. We strive to enhance the quality of life for young children and their families in Idaho by (1) improving professional practices in early care and education, (2) fostering public awareness and support, and (3) establishing and maintaining a strong, diverse, and inclusive organization. The Idaho AEYC oversees several initiatives, including the IdahoSTARS Professional Development System, which encompasses a Registry, Career Pathway, Incentives and Scholarships, Mentor/Coaches, the Reaching the STARS Quality Rating System, Trainer and Training Approval, and seven Regional Child Care Resource and Referral Offices. Additionally, we provide academic scholarships aimed at elevating the educational qualifications of individuals working in child care settings, making education more affordable, increasing wages, and reducing staff turnover. Scholarship funds are available for those pursuing a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, an Early Childhood Associate Degree, a technical certificate, or a Bachelor’s Degree in early childhood education. The Mentoring for Early Care and Education Project (M.E.C.E.) aims to cultivate a network of qualified professionals across Idaho's seven regions. Through the IdahoSTARS initiative, early care and education practitioners or directors can receive financial support for mentoring services in various areas, including the Idaho Quality Child Care Apprenticeship program, individual projects, accreditation assistance, environmental assessments, and consultations with Child Care Health Consultants. M.E.C.E. is currently open for applications from mentors looking to assist providers, as well as from providers seeking mentorship or coaching. To qualify for mentoring services, enrollment in the IdahoSTARS Professional Development system is required. The IdahoSTARS Quality Child Care Rating System, piloted in 2008, aims to ensure a fair and equitable assessment process for child care programs, leading to a STAR rating of 1-5 stars that helps parents gauge quality based on recognized standards in early care and education. A significant aspect of this system is the STRENGTHENING FAMILIES training, which supports child care providers in engaging parents in program planning and connecting them with community services. The Idaho STATE TRAINING AND REGISTRY SYSTEM (IdahoSTARS) oversees the eligibility of Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) providers for subsidy payments, Parent Child Care Referrals, Child Care Resource & Referral across all seven regions of Idaho, and the Professional Development System for child care professionals. Services are available in both English and Spanish. For intake procedures, please contact us.