Like other child care providers, Molly is required to complete continuing education hours each year in order to maintain her licensure.
Often these classes can be costly, so she relies on United Way of Weld County’s professional development trainings, which are always low or no cost, offered at convenient times, and presented on interesting, up-to-date topics.
challenges
In the United States, nearly 11 million children under age 5 are in child care each week. It’s imperative that child care providers continually work to offer the highest quality care possible. As such, all licensed child care providers must complete a specified number of hours of professional development each year in order to maintain licensure. Local community colleges help child care providers meet these requirements and provide the opportunity for participants to earn college credits; still there is a great need for free or low cost trainings, as well as trainings that are offered in the evening.
What are some of the indicators of high quality child care?
- low child/teacher ratios
- small group size
- staff with higher education and on-going training
- prior experience and education of the director
- low teacher turnover
- positive teacher/child interactions
- accreditation or higher than minimum licensing standards
- age appropriate activities
- good health and safety practices
Over 90% of brain growth occurs during the early years, between ages 0-5. The people who help care for your child are also those who help shape your child’s mind.
Investments
Child Care Provider Professional Development trainings offer over 15 hours of continuing education to Weld County child care providers each year. The trainings host speakers from the Colorado higher education system, ensuring the presentations are of high quality and encouraging providers to enroll in classes taught by an experienced teacher. The relationship built with the speakers during the trainings also helps to reduce the fear that is often a barrier to enrolling in college classes.
Sample class titles include “Every Child Ready to Read,” “Cavity Free Kids,” and “Emergency Preparedness.”
United Way of Weld County also hosts an annual training series. This is a collection of Saturday classes regarding children’s health and education at which a provider can earn up to 12 hours of professional development.
“I am so blessed to be a part of such a great conference. World renowned speakers, fellowship, meals, and more. Thank you United Way of Weld County…feeling united for sure.”
Jennifer, Home Care Provider and Building Blocks conference Attendee
