About
Arizona Early Childhood Education Association (AECEA), founded in 2017 and based in Phoenix, AZ, is a nonprofit association representing private, licensed proprietary and nonprofit child care centers across Arizona. Members provide infant and toddler care, preschool programs, and before- and after-school care that support working families, promote child development, and offer safe, structured out-of-school time for school-age children.
AECEA advances affordable, quality early care and education through policy advocacy, legislative updates, and professional development delivered with statewide partners. Member resources include training sessions, an Orientation Manual, news and policy briefings, and an annual meeting.
Recognized as an active voice for child care providers with local, state, and federal officials and agencies, AECEA has helped shape key public policies. Achievements include establishing a lower property tax classification for child care facilities; ensuring public school and government-operated programs meet the same health, safety, and licensure standards; supporting expansion of the state subsidy program and rate increases; preventing major funding cuts; and advocating for national child care programs and federal support. AECEA also secured private funding to develop a quality assessment tool with ratings and an essential orientation training package for new employees.
AECEA serves centers statewide, helping providers meet regulatory standards, improve program quality, and expand access to early learning for Arizona’s families.