August 2026 President Report

G’day MnAEYC Members,

There is something special about the beginning of a new school year. Whether I am preparing a classroom, welcoming new families, supporting educators, leading a program, teaching future professionals, or advocating behind the scenes, this season invites me to pause and remember what sits at the heart of our work: relationships, belonging, and the power of play.

The Importance of Play in Early Childhood Education

Play is not an extra. It is not what happens after the “real learning” is done. Play is how children make sense of the world. It helps them build relationships, test ideas, develop language, practice problem-solving, and experience joy. As we move into this new year, I hope we can continue to champion learning environments where children are seen, heard, respected, and invited to wonder.

Building Strong Relationships

Building strong relationships is essential in early childhood education. These connections create a foundation for learning. When children feel safe and valued, they are more likely to engage in play and exploration. As educators, we must prioritize these relationships. We can do this by taking the time to listen and respond to children's needs.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging

A sense of belonging is crucial for children's development. When children feel they belong, they are more confident and willing to take risks in their learning. We can foster this sense of belonging by creating inclusive environments. This means celebrating diversity and ensuring every child feels represented and valued.

Advocating for Play-Based Learning

Advocating for play-based learning is vital. It is essential to communicate the importance of play to parents, policymakers, and the community. We must share research that supports play as a fundamental component of early learning. By doing this, we can help shift perceptions and ensure that play is recognized as a critical aspect of education.

Membership Reminder: NAEYC/MnAEYC Membership vs. Website Login

We have heard from several folx who were unsure about the difference between becoming a site member on the MnAEYC website and becoming a NAEYC/MnAEYC member. Creating a login or becoming a site member on our website allows you to access certain website features, register for events, or manage information connected to the MnAEYC website — but it does not automatically enroll you as a NAEYC/MnAEYC member.

To become an official NAEYC/MnAEYC member, you must join or renew directly through NAEYC and select MnAEYC as your affiliate. Official membership connects you to both the national NAEYC community and the Minnesota affiliate, helping support advocacy, professional development, and statewide efforts to strengthen the early childhood profession. If you are unsure whether your NAEYC/MnAEYC membership is current, we encourage you to check your membership status through NAEYC.

Join or renew here: https://www.naeyc.org/get-involved/membership

Conclusion

Thank you for being part of MnAEYC and for the care, skill, and commitment you bring to Minnesota’s early childhood community. We are grateful to be connected with you. Together, we can continue to elevate the quality of early childhood education across Minnesota.

With appreciation,

Jodie Riek

President, MnAEYC