Five ways to appreciate child care providers

Child Care Provider Appreciation

Want to know how important child care providers are in southwest Minnesota? Ask a working family or a local employer, and they’ll tell you early childhood professionals are key to keeping life running smoothly during working hours and helping our kids thrive.

We asked providers in our region to share meaningful things people can do to show their appreciation.

“In today’s world I feel that personalized notes and gifts are what really hits home. The ones that really meant something to me are ones that come from the kid, ones that are unexpected, and ones that come from those that you don’t expect,” said Miranda Evenson, director at Little Eagles Daycare Center in Madison.

There were lots of other great suggestions too. Based on what providers shared, here are five ways to show your appreciation for local child care providers.

1. Have your child draw a picture for their providers or take time to send a handwritten note.
2. Simply tell your child care provider how much you appreciate them.
3. Bring a coffee drink for all staff or their specific teachers.
4. Follow the policies your provider has implemented for their program in their handbook.
5. Ask your provider if there is something they want to add to their program that you could donate. Some child cares even have a “wish list” for just that purpose.

“I think the most meaningful thing people can do is just to acknowledge the work that early childhood providers do. It’s not always butterflies and rainbows, but it makes a difference every day. I think acknowledging the difference that it makes goes a long way for those who are working in the field.”

Desiree Becker, Little Stangs Learning Center

Even if you don’t have kids in child care, one thing we can all do is emphasize the professionalism of this work that plays a vital role in early childhood development. For example, when you’re having conversations in your community, use titles like “early childhood educator” or “caregiver” rather than “babysitter” to more accurately represent the skills and knowledge child care providers bring to the job.

National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day is the Friday before Mother’s Day each May. Celebrate this year by trying one of these tips to recognize a local child care provider you know or come up with your own idea. In the words of family-based child care provider Carol Rothmeier, “A simple gesture goes a long way!”

The annual Kids First Conference in March is one way we show appreciation for our child care providers and support their professional development. We’re a major funder and a HUGE cheerleader for this event. Read why Kids First matters for our child care providers.

Investing in professional development opportunities for our early care and education professionals is part of our work in economic development. Child and early care professionals are critical to economic mobility. They allow primary caregivers to work and support their families. They help children with learning and development of lifelong skills. They help ensure employers can attract and retain talent. They have a direct impact on the quality of life in our communities.