You care deeply about early childhood education. You see how policies affect children, families, and educators every day. But advocacy can still feel intimidating.
Maybe you’ve thought, “I don’t know enough about policy”; “I’m not comfortable speaking up publicly”; or “I wouldn’t even know where to start.” If this sounds familiar, you’re exactly the person for whom many NAEYC Affiliates are designing advocacy-focused cohorts and leadership programs to offer
Supportive, low-pressure spaces to learn
Training in storytelling and communication
Mentorship from experienced advocates
Opportunities to practice advocacy alongside peers
Reassurance that their lived experiences matter
Following are some of the programs NAEYC Affiliates are providing.
The Maine AEYC’s Leadership in Early Childhood Education, Advocacy, and Policy Program (LEaP) intentionally brings educators and families together. LEaP works closely with Maine’s State Parent Ambassadors, so advocacy isn’t happening in silos. Educators and families learn side by side, share stories, and lift up the voices of those most directly impacted by early childhood policy.
LEaP also recognizes that there’s no one “right” way to advocate. Each participant leaves the program with a personalized advocacy plan that reflects their interests, strengths, and capacities. Whether this means talking with legislators, writing op-eds, or mentoring others, educators have a plan for staying involved and feeling supported in their journeys.
Northern Virginia AEYC’s Advocacy Leadership Training Program helps educators build confidence and step into leadership in ways they didn’t expect. It has grown into a regional cohort, bringing together educators from Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland. Educators in this regional advocacy community support each other and grow together. Many past participants now serve as advocacy chairs, Affiliate presidents, and mentors, helping guide the next generation of advocates.
Florida AEYC’s Advocacy Cohort ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of participation. By covering Public Policy Forum registration, hotel stays, and travel stipends, FLAEYC makes a real difference for educators who want to be involved but may not have had the opportunity before.
Its impact goes beyond financial support: FLAEYC member Michelle Gelfert, who earned FLAEYC’s Advocate of the Year Award in October 2025, says the Advocacy Cohort helped her gain confidence and find her voice. She now mentors future cohort members, serves on FLAEYC’s Advocacy Committee, and helped to launch a new Affiliate chapter in Central Florida.
These Affiliate-led programs show that advocacy doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, educators can build skills, find community, and discover their power as advocates.
If you’re curious about advocacy or wondering how to get more involved, start with your Affiliate. Chances are, there’s already a program, cohort, or network designed to support you. Advocacy is stronger when educators are supported, and Affiliates are proving that when we invest in people, we strengthen the entire field.
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