Uplifting the Voices and Visions of the people who guide our youngest learners

The CAYL Institute (Community Advocates for Young Learners) gathers early childhood educators and caregivers of all backgrounds to listen, learn, and lead, together.

Woman speaking, grayscale photo
LIttle girl looking at camera

Creating the change we want to see

Early childhood education is a calling—and a commitment to the future. We invest in the well-being of our youngest learners to nurture curiosity and compassion, inspire a lifelong love of learning, increase opportunity, and provide a foundation for a more just and equitable world.

As early childhood education practitioners work to instill a love of learning in the children we serve, we understand that encountering and embracing change is an unwritten part of our job description. As we navigate systemic inequities and high need, low wages and strict regulation, we need to speak bravely about the challenges we face.

When we work together, we can elevate practitioner-focused solutions that center children and families.

 

 

“Bringing forth our vision for a respected and equitable profession demands that the voices of people who actually work with children every day be heard.”

Dr. Valora Washington
CEO & President, The CAYL Institute

Meeting the moment—in community

icon of a link of a chain

STRONGER TOGETHER


CAYL’s network includes pioneers in early childhood education as well as educators and practitioners in classrooms and homes in the U.S. and around the world. 

icon of a heart

DEEP CONNECTIONS

Educators can discover and partner with peers and potential collaborators across all aspects of services available to children and families.

lightning icon

TAKE ACTION

System-wide transformation begins at home. CAYL’s tools and support help practitioners create meaningful change in their own communities.