May 7th is Child Care Provider Appreciation Day! Early educators are so important to our families and our community. They care for our youngest children — teaching them, keeping them safe, and helping them grow — so their parents can go to work and provide for their families. To learn more about child care providers’ difficult but important jobs, check out these quick facts about child care and child development.
Facts About Child Care and Learning
The first five years of a child’s life have a profound impact on his or her future. Children in quality early care and education programs are more likely to be successful later in life.
Children’s enthusiasm for learning is born at a very young age. Teachers work hard to provide children with exciting learning opportunities every day!
Children learn from other children — most of their social and interpersonal skills come from interactions with other children and their caregivers.
Play is an essential part of early childhood education! It is crucial for a child's cognitive, physical, and social development.
Numbers are language, too. Children learn concepts behind numbers before learning names of numbers.
Thank Your Child Care Provider
Looking for a gift to give a child care provider who is special to you and your family? One of the best gifts you can give are your words of appreciation! Try writing a letter or making a card for your child’s provider — older children can help!
Simple Phrases That Mean A Lot
You inspire me when you…
I really appreciate when you…
I value what you do when…
It is amazing that you…
I like the way you handled…
It makes me smile when you…
It is awesome that you…
I love how you…
I am thankful that you…
Thanks a million for…
I appreciate your…
You made a great decision when…
I respect you when…
It was kind of you when…
Thank you for…
It was wonderful for you to take the time to…
It was so thoughtful of you to...