Valley of the Sun Early Childhood Association

Valley of the Sun Early Childhood Association (VSECA.org) was incorporated as an Arizona non-profit 501(c)(3) in 1974 with the mission of serving children, families and educators in greater Phoenix and Maricopa County. We believe all children have the right to a safe and accessible, high quality early childhood education that includes a developmentally appropriate curriculum; knowledgeable and well-trained program staff and educators; and comprehensive support services. Candid Platinum rating

HELP US BUILD OUTDOOR LIBRARY GARDENS IN MARICOPA COUNTY TITLE I SCHOOLS!

LEADERSHIP
Valley of the Sun Early Childhood Association is the foremost professional association for the early childhood field in Maricopa County. Our programs are centered on building learning communities focused on language and literacy. We provide professional development and foster NAEYC systems support for early child care and education professionals to advance their education and careers.

FLIP THIS PLAYGROUND
Valley of the Sun's innovative program for Title I schools is designed to transform hardscape playgrounds into outdoor classrooms, with gardens and multiple learning centers. We teach across the curriculum - literacy, mathematics, science and social learning through engaging outdoor spaces. Every installation includes an outdoor library center with bi-lingual English-Spanish publications.

LIGHT THAT FIRE
Valley of the Sun provides professional development workshops for early childhood educators - CTE, Associate and BA candidates - focusing on best practices in early childhood education. As a profession in transition, we are especially focused on mentoring the next generation of early childhood educators. Promoting high-quality learning environments rich in literacy and joyful provocations.

Together we are Building Leaders from the Start!

Testimonials

Valley of the Sun Early Childhood Association is a 2023 Platinum Ranked with Guidestar: https://www.guidestar.org/Profile/23-7066420

Valley of the Sun Early Childhood Association is a top rated non-profit with Great Nonprofits: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/valley-of-the-sun-association-for-the-education-of-young-children

"Amazing organization. I love the service projects and connecting to the community. Valley of the Sun continues to go over and above when it comes to serving children and families."

"I have been in the early childhood field for a long time. When I first started in my career, I could always count on VSAEYC to provide excellent professional development to help me provide a developmentally appropriate environment for my young learners."

"Helped to install gardens and library box at a Head Start location. This organization is helping the schools that need it most."

"The Flip This Playground initiative brings intentional focus to the outdoor spaces of schools around the valley, and truly transforms these spaces from playgrounds to "outdoor classrooms".

"Their leadership has worked continuously to promote the importance of continuing education through seminars and education classes. They know that through dedication and tireless support, they can make a difference in the successful education of disadvantaged children in this area."

"They are committed to delivering on the promise of high-quality early learning. They have worked to achieve a collective vision: that all young children thrive and learn in a society dedicated to ensuring they reach their full potential."