A GROWING PARTNERSHIP:

WORKING WITH IDAHO TRIBES TO ALIGN OUR EARLY EDUCATION SYSTEM

With hard work and determination, Idaho AEYC has been building partnerships and collaboration with some of the most influential and experienced early learning experts within the tribal communities of Idaho. We look forward to future projects and providing support together for the curious, capable, and competent young learners of the Shoshone-Bannock, Shoshone-Paiute, Coeur d’Alene, Kootenai, and Nez Perce Tribes.

At the end of August, Idaho AEYC and the Clearwater Early Learning Collaborative attended the Chief Looking Glass Pow Wow in Kamiah! We conducted an early learning survey for the Nez Perce community, handed out books, and offered educational resources. We are so proud of how our Early Learning Collaboratives are helping ensure every child and family has access to the high-quality learning resources in every corner of Idaho!

PARENT CAFÉS

COMING IN 2026!

Idaho AEYC is bringing Parent Cafés to a community near you! These cafés are in-person experiences where people talk and listen to each other on topics that matter to them, such as the challenges and victories of raising a family.

In Parent Cafés every voice is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to both learn and lead. First developed in 2007 by parent leaders from Strengthening Families Illinois, the Parent Café process remains a parent-to-parent way to build the Strengthening Families™ Protective Factors within families.

This month, Idaho AEYC and Be Strong Families is training over 80 facilitators to help launch this effort and provide new ways for parents to connect, problem solve, and provide support.

Want to learn more about Idaho AEYC's launch of this new effort?

Check out the new episode of The Resilient Parenting Podcast, featuring Idaho AEYC's own Adrian Amo, Director of Family and Community Engagement, and the two trainers from Be Strong Families as they talk all about it.

Visit our Family Resources Page.

Learn more about Be Strong Families and Parent Cafés.

IDAEYC STAFF UPDATE

Jessica Roth

Director of Business Development

Jessica is working to develop business partnerships and resources to support child care needs across the state. A graduate of Washington State University (Go Cougs!), Jessica earned her bachelor’s degree in digital technology and culture with a minor in English. Her professional experience lies in communications, marketing, and working with Idaho’s local elected officials and companies across the country to forge partnerships and bring in resources. When not working, Jessica loves to travel, explore new cities, and find all the best food. 

We are so thankful to have Jessica on our team!

NEW RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES AND EARLY EDUCATORS

Building Blocks For Success Parent Guidebook

Building Blocks for Success is a practical and easy-to-use guide created to help families support their child’s growth from ages three to five. It is a resource grounded in the Idaho Early Learning eGuidelines and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework. It outlines key developmental milestones for children ages three to five and provides strategies and simple at home activities that educators and families can use together to promote school readiness and lifelong learning.

You can order Building Blocks for Success using this link. The booklet is available in both English and Spanish. You can also find it on the IDAEYC website under the Family Resource tab.

An Educator Companion Guidebook is coming soon!

Waiting Is Hard! Kits For Partners and Providers

Turn waiting time into meaningful moments. Waiting can be hard for kids and families —but it’s also a chance to connect, play, and learn. That’s why we created Waiting Is Hard! Kits: ready-to-use resources that spark curiosity, reduce stress, and strengthen family bonds in any waiting space. Each kit comes with fun, flexible activities including activity books, growth charts, and “You’ve Got This! ” family tools, plus an optional poster with a QR code linking to quick, no-materials-needed games online. Whether in a clinic, library,

laundromat, or lobby, these kits are simple, adaptable, and offered free of charge.

Order HERE!