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Early Childhood Education

AFC’s Early Childhood Education Project provides individual case assistance, community education, and policy advocacy to improve access and equity in early childhood education so that all children enter kindergarten prepared to succeed.

The first five years of children’s lives are a crucial period in their development. We help families navigate the City’s various early childhood education programs and work to remove barriers that prevent low-income families from accessing services during these key years, with a focus on young children with developmental delays or disabilities, children from immigrant families, and children in temporary housing.

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  • Early Childhood

    Joseph's Story

    “Joseph has flourished over the past six months! Thank you for working so diligently on his case and securing this last year of support services.  I'm certain he wouldn't have made this progress if you hadn't worked so hard to provide him the opportunity to work and achieve!”

    Hands of a toddler playing with wooden animals and dinosaurs. (Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels)
  • Early Childhood

    Izzie's Story

    "Because of AFC’s efforts my family and I do see the light at the end of the tunnel where our child will continue to progress so nicely and have a happy and healthy upbringing. Without AFC, none of this would have been possible."

  • Students Facing Disciplinary Issues

    Charlene's Story

    With AFC's help, Charlene's mother found a school where her daughter could thrive, one that specializes in working with high-functioning children with behavioral challenges like Charlene

The Latest


Guides, tip sheets, and educational resources

Learn more about early childhood education programs for New York City’s youngest learners, including the legal rights of young children with developmental delays or disabilities and services they can receive in Early Intervention, preschool special education, and kindergarten.

Webinars, workshops, and trainings

Our free trainings and workshops provide important information to help parents, communities, and professionals advocate effectively on behalf of their children

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