Investing in early childhood development
Research shows that high-quality early childhood education is an extraordinary way to promote future success in life. Improving children’s experiences in their early years can have powerful long-term impacts on all racial and economic groups. The 360 Communities Child Care Aware program helps day care providers increase the quality of their programs and helps families locate quality child care.
Children benefit as providers strengthen programs
Our Child Care Aware team is a part of Child Care Aware of MN and administers the program for Dakota County. Our team train and support child care providers to assist them with earning Parent Aware Star ratings. All star-rated programs go above and beyond licensing requirements to support school readiness. Child Care Aware recently gathered its new group of over 100 Dakota County child care program participants. Thousands of Dakota County children will benefit from these providers’ proactive training to strengthen their programs with best practices that support early childhood development.
Providers learn from each other
Additionally, Child Care Aware recently began hosting monthly Director’s Chats.  Center directors come together for these chats to discuss the critical issues that impact their programs and share knowledge. Our team is excited about Dakota County families accessing to high-quality child care that prepares children for greater success in life.
“I want to take a moment and say thank you. Our space is evolving into a place of learning, fun, and individual challenges for all ages! I couldn’t do it without the Parent Aware training. The guidance and teamwork — I love the partnership!!!”
