WHEREAS, children are our most precious resource, and the early years of a child’s life are fundamental for social and cognitive development; and

WHEREAS, a brighter future for Alaska depends on the quality of early childhood experiences provided to our children today, and a child’s parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, teachers, day care providers, and others in the community can help support early learning for all young children; and

WHEREAS, we must demonstrate a commitment to our children’s future by creating safe homes and strong families to protect them from violence, abuse, and neglect; and

WHEREAS, parents have the responsibility to engage with their children and nurture their well-being, to teach them character-building values, and to develop their social skills and cognitive abilities; and

WHEREAS, families, teachers, administrators, local organizations, and many others who provide their time and effort to support families and positively impact the lives of Alaska’s children deserve our recognition and gratitude; and

WHEREAS, the Week of the Young Child is a time to recognize that the early childhood years are foundational for a child’s success in school and in later life and have a vital impact on a child’s personal development.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim April 6 – 12, 2024 as:

The Week of the Young Child

in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to value and support the young children in their lives and communities and to help create positive experiences in their early years.