About the Words Matter Campaign

The Words Matter campaign, developed by the Association for Early Learning Leaders (AELL), is a movement dedicated to redefining and elevating the language we use around early childhood education. This initiative highlights the profound impact that words have on how early education is understood, respected, and supported across our communities. Recognizing that language shapes perceptions, Words Matter seeks to build a broader acknowledgment of the expertise and dedication early educators bring to their roles every day.

Through encouraging terms like early childhood education and early educator, the campaign underscores the intentional and skillful nature of this work, aiming to replace terms that may overlook the depth of educators’ responsibilities. Early educators provide more than care; they create and implement developmentally appropriate experiences, fostering the emotional, social, cognitive, and physical growth that forms the basis for lifelong learning and success.

By redefining the narrative, the Words Matter campaign honors the skill, professionalism, and passion that early childhood educators bring to their work and seeks to inspire broader community and societal support for their invaluable contributions to the lives of children and families.