Appalachian Early Childhood Network

Helping Families and Educators Help Their Children

Open: 9:00am – 5:00pm
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Helping Families And Educators Help Their Children

For Families
For Educators

The Appalachian Early Childhood Network
works to build an environment that supports quality, affordable early care and education for families in Appalachia.

About Us
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baby regular Find Training

AECN offers a variety of professional development opportunities both online and in person for early childhood professionals seeking a Child Development Associate (CDA), Commonwealth Child Care Credential, or regulatory training hours. We welcome child care, preschool, and Head Start programs, as well as any others involved in the early childhood field.

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baby carriage regular Find Child Care

It can be difficult to decide which child care option is the best fit for your family. Find out more about the different types available and what high-quality child care looks like.

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Get Updates From AECN!

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hands helping regular Technical Assistance

AECN provides support to those interested in opening a family child care home. We have tools and resources to help you get started!

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Latest News

Read more about our trainings, technical assistance and advocacy.

Improvements in Professional Development Delivery Options

Press Releases May 21, 2021

Change is often difficult, but necessary.  Like many of you, AECN staff would prefer to provide face to face sessions whenever possible.  This past year has left no other option but online professional development.  Fortunately, AECN had already prepared participants for the transition. Soon, KT will be receiving training on how to offer a variety of professional development opportunities online in […] Read more.

Spotlight: Kristin Walker Collins

News May 21, 2021

Kristin Walker Collins, Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation for Appalachian          Kentucky  AECN Board Member Kristin Walker Collins is the Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky (Foundation) in Hazard, Kentucky, the only nationally accredited community foundation in southeastern Kentucky. Before starting her career in philanthropy, Kristin worked as an attorney specializing in […] Read more.

Spotlight: Penny Smith

News May 21, 2021

Penny Smith, Program Coordinator, IECE Program Hazard Community and Technical College AECN Board Member Penny Smith is no stranger to early childhood professionals in Eastern Kentucky!  She has spent her adult years working to improve young children’s lives.  Her life experiences and education make her a wonderful advocate for children, families, and early childhood professionals.   She is […] Read more.

Our Vision

Families in Appalachia have access to quality affordable early care and education that leads to all children reaching their fullest potential.

Our Team
Our Partners

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