Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) invites southwest Minnesota child care providers, economic development professionals, community leaders and champions of child care to attend a listening session to learn about and provide feedback, ideas and concerns regarding the second draft of licensing standards for family child care published by the Department of Human Services (DHS) as part of the Child Care Regulation Modernization Projects.

One of SWIF’s priorities is supporting the growth and retention of child care programs in the region because we know access to quality child care is critical to community vitality and economic mobility. We are seeking the engagement and participation of child care providers and child care champions across the region to ensure the perspectives of southwest Minnesota are represented. All listening sessions will be led by Cheryl Glaeser of Achieve Consulting. DHS staff will be present to help educate attendees on the updates made to the second draft and to answer questions. Most of the time will be allocated to ensuring attendees understand the key points and content in the second draft, as well as opportunities for attendees to provide feedback and ask questions. DHS will incorporate feedback from the southwest Minnesota and other listening sessions to further refine and improve the third draft of the licensing standards and present a final proposal at the 2026 legislative session.

Please note: Registration is required. A complimentary meal will be available at 5:30 p.m. This session is available only to those who reside, operate or are employed by a child care business or represent an organization that serves the 18 counties and two Native Nations in southwest Minnesota. If you are outside the region but would like to participate in a listening session, please visit DHS’ website.

Questions? Contact Briana Mumme at [email protected]