Bilingual
Meal provided
Childcare provided
Idaho AEYC proudly hosted Early Learning Day at the Idaho State Capitol on February 3, 2026. The event brought together 24 early childhood organizations from across the state to meet directly with policymakers and show them the real work happening in Idaho’s early learning communities.
The day focused on ensuring lawmakers heard firsthand how access to high-quality childcare directly impacts Idaho’s workforce and economy by elevating voices closest to families and young children.
We are thrilled to be welcoming Nicole Criner back to the Idaho AEYC Team!
Previously serving on staff as our External Relations and Development Director and then most recently on our Board of Directors, Nicole Criner comes to the role of Executive Director with knowledge and experience. She is truly a champion of Early Education already and we can't wait to support her vision for Idaho AEYC's future.
An Idaho native and proud Boise State University alumna, Criner brings an exceptional blend of nonprofit leadership, higher education advancement, and corporate communications experience to Idaho AEYC. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications, a Certificate in Leadership and Human Relations, and a master’s degree in Leadership.
Idaho AEYC is excited to introduce our new “Waiting Is Hard” kits, designed for partners, businesses, and organizations where families often spend time waiting—like doctor’s offices, community centers, or other places families visit regularly. These kits are filled with simple, engaging activities that help reduce stress, spark connection, and turn waiting moments into opportunities for learning and fun.
These kits are part of Idaho AEYC’s Strengthening Families initiative, which supports organizations in helping families build resilience and foster positive relationships. By offering these strength-based tools, the “Waiting Is Hard” kits help partners create a welcoming, supportive environment for children and their caregivers. These kits are intended for use in professional or community settings.
Idaho AEYC was thrilled to welcome Early Learning Collaborative (ELC) leaders from across the state to Boise for the annual ELC Symposium from October 3-4. The event brought together passionate educators, community partners, and advocates to share ideas, celebrate achievements, and strengthen Idaho’s early learning system. Attendees participated in interactive sessions, learned about innovative programs, and exchanged strategies and resources to better support children and families. The symposium was a true celebration of the progress being made in communities across Idaho to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and grow.
Idaho AEYC participated in the 19th annual Community Baby Shower on June 11, 2025, collecting donations at Albertsons stores to support local families. The event, hosted by
Register today for the 2025 Early Learning Conference! Click HERE to register.png)
BOISE, ID — February 21, 2024 — After 13 years of dedicated service, Beth Oppenheimer has announced her decision to step down as the Executive Director of the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (AEYC).
With the start of the new year, many individuals are setting goals to ensure 2024 brings value, success and more. After celebrating 25 years of Idaho AEYC being a champion for children and families in 2023, we have reflected on the impactful work accomplished last year. As we eagerly step into our 26th year, the anticipation builds and we stand ready to continue our unwavering commitment to championing the well-being of children and families in Idaho.
With Idaho being one of the few states that does not provide state funding for pre-K programs, this increases costs for child care centers, families and, in turn, employers. Even with federal funding, families are still struggling to afford child care. This leaves families with little to no options for support, resulting in families making tough decisions and leaving employment. This does not just affect singular families, this impacts Idaho’s economy as a whole.
