#ThankYouChildCare (video)

Child care providers were ‘essential’ long before the pandemic. They keep our children safe, nurture their curiosity and prepare them for a lifetime of learning and growth. Together with our network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies, nonprofit and business partners, we invite you to join us in thanking and celebrating child care providers across the nation. ~Child Care Aware^®

Join the Maryland State Department of Education’s (MSDE) Division of Early Childhood, Child Care Aware^® of America, and other organizations dedicated to celebrate early care and education providers and high-quality child care on Friday, May 6, for Provider Appreciation Day.

In 1996, a group of volunteers in New Jersey organized the first Provider Appreciation Day to recognize early care and education providers’ dedication and commitment to children and families. This special day is now celebrated nationwide by parents and families as well as state and local organizations. The MSDE, Division of Early Childhood with Child Care Aware^®encourages parents and families to show appreciation year-round to the professionals who nurture, teach and care for their children. Research shows that the most critical time for brain development is the first five years of a child’s life. Early care and education providers are important partners with parents and families to build a strong foundation for a child’s success in school and life.

In addition to supporting children’s growth and development, the early childhood profession is an important part of the national economy. The Committee for Economic Development states that more than 6 million children under five are in paid child care programs. When families have access to high-quality child care, they can pursue employment or education opportunities that will lead to higher earnings for the family.

Here are some suggestions from Child Care Aware^® to show appreciation to the early care and education provider in your life:

• Get together with other parents to create a surprise.
• Send flowers, cards, or a note of appreciation.
• Work with your child to create a special remembrance.
• Buy something for your provider’s play area.
• Give your provider a paid day off, a raise, or a bonus.
• Find out your provider’s hobby and buy an appropriate gift or gift card.
• Check if your employer provides scholarships for toys, equipment, or training that you can sponsor as a parent.

If you would like to honor the early care and education provider in your life, share your story on Facebook , Twitter, and Instagram @MDEngageEarly, email early.engagementmsde@maryland.gov, or nominate them for Provider of the Month through Child Care Aware^®.

Choosing Quality Child Care

Maryland EXCELS understands that finding quality, affordable child care is important to Maryland families. That’s why we’ve created the Find a Program tool to guide families with their search. When you choose a Maryland EXCELS program, you are selecting a program that exceeds state licensing requirements and is committed to continuous quality improvement and providing quality care for your child. For valuable guidance to help you choose quality care for your child, visit Tips for Finding Child Care.