From April 13 to April 17, QUALITYstarsNY celebrated the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s (NAEYC) Week of the Young Child (WOYC) 2026. The week is all about celebrating learning and development in children through a series of themed days that include music, art, food, and family. Take a look at how the QUALITYstarsNY community celebrated.
WXXI Education and the Educators' Resource Center at Monroe Community College hosted a community screening of the film "Make a Circle" by Jen Bradwell and Todd Boekelheide. The evening began with participants visiting vendor tables of community partners, including QUALITYstarsNY, the Finger Lakes Career Development Center, Child Care Council, and Children's Institute. A welcome reception set the tone of coming together, holding space, and remembering the power of community. The film was powerful--not just something to watch, but something to feel, leaving the audience moved to tears by the film's end.
Children’s play is an essential place for their brains to have a variety of experiences that support their growth and development. Family child care provides a loving space for children to experience the magic of play. It can provide them with the opportunities to build the foundational skills needed for continued and more finite learning as they grow older.
Lois Campbell & Yates Daycare recently won a reading challenge put on by the Wakefield Library. Wakefield Library in the Bronx challenged schools and students in their community to read 200 books. Lois Campbell & Yates not only rose to the challenge but surpassed it.
Creativity is something we talk about often in early childhood education — but it’s not always something teachers feel free to practice. For many educators, lesson planning can feel like a choice between following the plan and following the child. In play-based programs, that tension deserves a closer look.
In February 2026, Hunger Solutions New York hosted information sessions for QUALITYstarsNY participants to deepen best practices around food services and menu planning. Watch the information sessions and download the presentation slides to learn more about participating and maximizing your participation in CACFP.
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Discovery Schoolhouse, a science-based preschool located in Lake View, approaches early childhood education with a simple philosophy: learning is child’s play. Nestled in a wilderness setting, the school uses its natural surroundings as an extension of the classroom, encouraging children to explore, experiment, and discover through outdoor play.
Every year, Child and Family Services assists families experiencing challenges during the holiday season through their Adopt-a-Family Program. With the support of donors, wish lists with gifts and essentials for hundreds of people are fulfilled, allowing them to join in on holiday fun and create lasting memories with their loved ones. The Western New York regional team was honored to give back and make a meaningful difference for families in their community during the holiday season.
The QUALITYstarsNY team came together for our 2025 All-Staff Summit in Saratoga Springs, NY, where we spent three days focused on learning and connection. We explored valuable resources in the early childhood field, shared impactful stories and enjoyed fun activities!