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Text reads: "Colorado Department of Early Childhood May 2025 Newsletter." Three photos show a staff holding pinwheels on a staircase, Dr. Lisa Roy smiling at a conference, and an award presentation at the CO4Kids Resource Fair.
In This Issue:
As part of our commitment to accessibility, you may notice expanded captions in our newsletter to ensure a more inclusive experience for all readers.
Four people smiling at a gathering, conveying warmth and camaraderie. Overlay text: "A Note from CDEC Executive Director."
A Note from CDEC Executive Director
To our Early Childhood Heroes,
When I began my career in early childhood in 1993, I had a deep hope for what the system could become. From implementing a living wage for early childhood educators to expanding access to preschool for all, many things needed to progress. Though there's still work to be done, I'm deeply thankful that, together, we have revolutionized Colorado's early childhood sector and are improving the lives of children and families across our state.
In 2023, we began a two-year Teacher Salary Increase Pilot to boost the wages of over 300 teachers at 20 child care centers, and the early results are inspiring. Participating teachers can give their all to the children they love to educate without the burden of second jobs and heavy financial obligations. I recently had the privilege of meeting some of the teachers receiving the salary increase, and the stories I heard from them were a motivating reminder of why I, and all of us, do this work.
Beyond this, we are seeing our efforts pay off nationally. Before the Colorado Universal Preschool Program began in 2023, the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) ranked Colorado as 27th in the country for the number of four-year-olds enrolled in preschool. We have skyrocketed to third in the nation after just one year of the program! We envision a future where every child and family can reap the developmental and financial benefits of free preschool, and this new report shows that we are well on our way to this goal. Thank you to the CDEC staff, providers, partners, and families who are making this happen!
I’d also like to extend my deepest gratitude and celebration to Colorado Head Start programs. As we look ahead, we remain firmly committed to the values that Head Start represents—equity, opportunity, and the belief that every child deserves a strong start. This May, we come together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Head Start and 30th anniversary of Early Head Start in Colorado! Since 1965, Colorado Head Start programs have helped generations break the cycle of poverty, offering education, health, and family support to communities throughout our state and country. Studies show that program participants are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and succeed in their careers. That’s the power of Head Start! Thank you to everyone involved in this remarkable program for uplifting the lives of generations of Coloradoans and beyond, including me and my family.
 Three photos: Community Events: Left shows three people smiling at a round table; center features Sena Harjo and Dr. Lisa Roy smiling, right displays Dr. Lisa Roy speaking into a microphone with a heartfelt expression.
In the last month, I had the joy of attending several events and conferences, including in Pueblo, Gunnison, and Broomfield. A rewarding aspect of my role as Executive Director is the opportunity to witness the remarkable work being done by early childhood advocates across our state and beyond! I'm eagerly anticipating attending more engagements in the coming weeks.
In my personal life, I’ve been keeping busy by attending my grandchildren’s athletic events and visiting the hot springs whenever and wherever possible.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to improve the lives of children and families in Colorado. I’m eager to share our new updates and celebrations with you next month!
With Gratitude,
 Two children drawing with crayons on paper, focused and engaged. Overlay text: "CDEC Policy & Legislation."
CDEC Policy & Legislation Updates
RULES ADVISORY COUNCIL (RAC) 2025 APPOINTMENTS
Apply NOW to be a member of the Colorado Department of Early Childhood’s Rules Advisory Council! The Early Childhood Leadership Commission is leading the search for a few new members to serve on the Rules Advisory Council. This 15-member Council advises the CDEC Executive Director on developing rules to guide the functions, programs and services that the Department oversees. The RAC represents a wide range of voices and perspectives from urban, suburban, and rural settings and who represent diversity in race, ethnicity, immigration status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, culture, and language. We strongly encourage applications from anyone who is passionate about the care and education of young children aged birth to five, their families, and the professionals who support them. Learn more about the RAC here!
Currently, 5 members’ terms will end on June 30, 2025; however, members currently serving are eligible for reappointment. These positions include representatives of a foundation, business, or early childhood advocacy organization; institution of higher education; county department of human services; and a family, friend, or neighbor (FFN) provider. We encourage everyone who is interested to apply and share their unique perspectives!
Apply by May 20, 2025 to be considered for this exciting opportunity!
PROPOSED RULES/AMENDMENTS UNDER REVIEW
During the month of May, the Department will engage in discussions, solicit feedback, and request a formal recommendation from the RAC before the Executive Director considers adopting permanent revisions to the Colorado Universal Preschool Program’s (UPK) Quality Standards rules. These revisions seek to extend the remaining implementation deadlines for several components of the quality standards rules, to improve clarity and consistency, support provider readiness, and allow time to proactively mitigate infrastructure challenges and limited system capacity. More specifically, the key changes include:
- Extending the July 1, 2025, compliance deadlines to July 1, 2026, for the remaining quality components, thus creating a more uniform and manageable implementation timeline.
- Delaying the effective date of the Family and Community Engagement requirements to July 1, 2026, to align with the revised compliance dates for other standards.
- Adjusting the effective date of the educator-to-child ratio requirement (1:10) to July 1, 2027, providing additional time for workforce planning and system-wide support.
UPCOMING RULEMAKING MEETINGS/HEARINGS
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RAC County Subcommittee Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
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Time: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
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Topic(s):
- Review and vote on the proposed permanent revisions to the Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK) Quality Standards rules.
- Informational presentation regarding the Early Intervention Colorado Program (EI).
- Receive updates on the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program’s (CCCAP) phased-in approach to implement Colorado House Bill 24-1223 and new requirements for the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF).
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Rules Advisory Council (RAC) Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
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Topic(s):
- Review and vote on the proposed permanent revisions to the Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK) Quality Standards rules.
- Informational presentation regarding the Early Intervention Colorado Program (EI).
- Annual Review and Approval of RAC Bylaws.
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Public Rulemaking Hearing (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Friday, May 16, 2025
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Time: 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
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Permanent Rulemaking:
- The Executive Director will consider permanent adoption of the proposed revisions to the Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK) Quality Standards rules.
SUBMIT WRITTEN FEEDBACK
Please submit all rulemaking related questions, or written comments regarding the proposed rules to CDEC_Rulemaking@state.co.us.
HOW TO STAY INFORMED
Sign up to receive Rulemaking Notifications and review the CDEC Rule Tracker to monitor and track the progress of the Department’s rulemaking proceedings.
CDEC staff stand and smile together at CO4Kids Resource Fair. Sarah Dawson, CCCAP Division Director is holding a baby and Dr. Lisa Roy is holding a winner plaque. Overlay text: "Inside CDEC: Highlights & Happenings."
Inside CDEC: Highlights & Happenings
CDEC in the News: Colorado’s Leadership in Early Childhood Education and Family Support
Colorado is gaining national recognition for its innovative approach to early childhood education and family support. The state ranks 3rd nationally for preschool enrollment, with nearly 70% of eligible four-year-olds participating in the Colorado Universal Preschool program. This program has propelled Colorado from 27th to 3rd in the nation, serving over 52,000 children. A recent study also shows that students enrolled in Universal Preschool exhibit accelerated developmental growth, surpassing peers by kindergarten entry. Additionally, Colorado is lauded for its two-generation (2Gen) investments, with over $500 million in funding supporting family-centered strategies to strengthen both children and their parents (Ascend at the Aspen Institute, 2025).
Dr. Lisa Roy Honored with Erin Binford Innovation Award
We are excited to share that Dr. Lisa Roy, Executive Director of the CDEC, was awarded the Erin Binford Innovation Award. This prestigious award, named in honor of the late Erin Binford, a dedicated advocate for social justice and early childhood initiatives, recognizes individuals making exceptional contributions to the early childhood ecosystem.
This award celebrates Dr. Roy’s remarkable career and unwavering dedication to promoting early learning, including her significant work with the Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program. This award holds special meaning for Dr. Roy, as she was a dear friend and colleague of Erin Binford. The award was presented today, Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the Parent Possible Rooted in Resilience Home Visiting Conference luncheon and awards ceremony.
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Split image: Left, six winners from the Parent Possible Rooted in Resilience Home Visiting Conference luncheon and awards ceremony stand holding awards in front of a screen reading "Rooted in Resilience." Right, Dr. Lisa Roy and Stephanie Beasley pose beside colorful balloons, smiling.
Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance
On Saturday, April 26, the Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance (ECCLA) was honored to convene partners from the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), Early Childhood Councils, and professionals in consultative roles for a day of networking and peer learning. This collaborative event was designed to support and strengthen the vital work that early childhood providers do each day across the state.
On the left, five smiling people stand together in front of a lit "5B's" sign, at the ECCLA conference. On the right, a woman presents with a microphone in a conference room, showcasing "Benefits of Being Licensed" on a screen.
Held at Western Colorado University, the event served as both a conference and a space for meaningful dialogue among early childhood stakeholders serving Gunnison-Hinsdale and surrounding counties. Through shared learning and connection, participants explored strategies for quality improvement, community-based systems building, and enhanced coordination of support for providers and families.
Early childhood professionals pose for a group photo.
This gathering reflected the ongoing partnership between CDEC and Colorado’s network of Early Childhood Councils, aimed at advancing the accessibility, quality, and equity of early childhood systems across the state. ECCLA is proud to play a role in facilitating these connections and helping ensure that those who support our youngest children are supported in return.
CO4Kids Resource Fair Connects Families with Vital Local Resources
The CO4Kids Resource Fair took place at the Denver Zoo on April 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM, offering a family-friendly event designed to connect local families with community-based resources and services. The first 400 attendees received free admission to the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, enhancing the experience for families.
 CDEC staff smiling at the CO4Kids Resource Fair with colorful banners in the background.
The fair featured a range of activities for children, including games, music, and the chance to win gift cards. Over 40 local organizations participated, providing valuable resources for families on topics such as parenting, healthcare, child development, housing, food access, and mental health services. Attendees also had the opportunity to learn about programs focused on supporting family well-being and community engagement.
The event, free to attend, was organized through a collaboration between the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), and the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Together, they provided a fun, informative, and engaging experience for families across the region.
On the left, two women, one is Dr. Lisa Roy from CDEC in a blue dress holding an award plaque, the other person is Michelle Barnes from CDHS with a hat and glasses, smiling under string lights. On the right, Dr. Lisa Roy speaks into a microphone against a blue backdrop
In addition to the day's activities, the CDEC was awarded the Words of Encouragement competition for the first time. The win reflects CDEC’s commitment to fostering positive connections within the community.
The CO4Kids Resource Fair successfully highlighted the importance of local partnerships in supporting the well-being of children and families, creating lasting memories and providing crucial resources for families in need.
Spotlight on Regional Convenings: Strengthening Connections Statewide
The Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance (ECCLA) has been hosting regional convenings across Colorado, bringing together early childhood professionals to share, learn, and collaborate. Each convening includes time to work with licensing partners, navigate sensitive topics with families and providers, discuss “Happenings and Wonderings”—what’s needed and how we can support each other—and highlight local resources and connections.
Members of the Regional Coaching Network Team have been in attendance at each convening, ensuring strong support and engagement across regions. At the Southeast regional meeting, Stacey Speck and Dusti Stanton represented the team, with Dr. Roy also joining the conversation.
Dusti Stanton, Stacey Speck, and Dr. Lisa Roy are wearing ID badges and lanyards, in a warmly lit room with a brown wall.
These gatherings reflect ECCLA’s mission to strengthen the accessibility, quality, and equity of early childhood services across the state through our network of Early Childhood Councils. Together, we’re building a more responsive and connected system for Colorado’s young children, their families, and early childhood professionals.
CDEC Celebrates 60 Years of Head Start and 30 Years of Early Head Start in Colorado
Children holding balloons run joyfully under a blue sky. Text reads "Happy Birthday Headstart! 60 Years of Head Start & 30 Years of Early Head Start in Colorado."
Head Start has been a beacon of hope for generations, offering vital support and creating pathways to success for countless children and families across our state. We honor the enduring values of Head Start—equity, opportunity, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a strong start. Many of our staff and community members were once Head Start kids or families themselves, which is a testament to the program’s lasting impact. Let's join together to appreciate this important legacy and the dedicated individuals who have contributed to its success!
Help us celebrate by recognizing staff and adding your favorite memory or photo with this link.
Mental Health Awareness Month
A young boy kisses his mom's cheek, both are wearing blue, in a green field. Overlay text: "Mental Health Awareness Month."
As we welcome a new month, we proudly recognize May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This year, Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week is May 4–10, with National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on May 8.
We believe mental health begins at birth. Young children experience a wide range of emotions, and supportive adults play a crucial role in their social-emotional development, shaping lifelong health. Let’s take this month to recognize this vital connection.
Here are a few ways to get involved:
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Learn More: Explore resources supporting children's mental health, such as SafeCare, the ECMH Support Line, and MentalHealthStartsEarly.com.
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Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being. When we care for ourselves, we’re better equipped to support others.
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Spread Awareness: Have conversations about adult and child mental health. When we spread awareness, we reduce stigmas that prevent people from seeking resources!
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families across Colorado!
Celebrating and Honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month
Collage of Asian American and Pacific Islander families and Jewish American families.
This May, CDEC proudly celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month. We honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AAPI and Jewish American communities in Colorado and across the nation. CDEC is committed to fostering inclusive early childhood spaces where every child and family feels seen, valued, and celebrated.
A woman wearing a hijab and a young girl smile while cooking in a modern kitchen. Overlay text: "Community & Family Support."
Community & Family Support
Immunization Branch School and Child Care Newsletter
The May, 2025 Immunization Branch School and Child Care Newsletter contains the following important information:
- Impact of House Bill 25-1027 on School Immunization Requirements
- New measles resource! What you can do to prepare now for measles in your school or child care
- Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS): Reminder to reset passwords
- Coming soon! New immunization forms and resources
- Vaccine spotlight: HPV
- Older child and teen immunization toolkit
Invest in Play
Invest in Play® (iiP) is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and families worldwide. With over 50 years of research, iiP’s team of psychologists has integrated the most effective components of evidence-based parenting programs to offer caregivers practical, compassionate strategies that have proven effective over decades.
Building on Invest in Kids' (IIK) expertise in prevention and intervention programs for caregivers, teachers, and children, we are proud to partner with iiP to pilot the Core Parent Program in Colorado. This collaboration ensures that cultural humility and relevance are at the heart of the program’s design and delivery.
Six of IIK’s partner sites will participate in this training, resulting in 20 trained facilitators and the launch of 10 Invest in Play parent groups, offered in both English and Spanish. Program implementation will be evaluated using equitable, culturally responsive approaches to engage participants and assess delivery, outcomes, and cultural relevance.
Learn more about Invest in Play® (iiP).
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CAFCC Launches Campaign for “A Day Without Child Care”
The Colorado Association of Family Child Care (CAFCC) is mobilizing providers, families, and community members across the state in a powerful show of advocacy and unity for “A Day Without Child Care,” taking place on Monday, May 12, 2025.
This year, CAFCC is taking a unique and proactive approach. Instead of closing their doors, home-based child care providers are encouraged to remain open and use the day to highlight the essential services they offer—and the critical role they play in keeping Colorado’s workforce strong. Throughout the week leading up to May 12 and on the day itself, CAFCC will be leading a statewide social media campaign to spotlight how many families are supported by family child care homes and just how vital these programs are to communities.
The campaign calls for recognition, increased investments in early childhood programs, and more robust support for families. CAFCC invites all community partners, organizations, and individuals to follow and engage with their Facebook page, share the campaign content, and amplify the message across their networks.
To support participation, CAFCC has created a toolkit with impact forms, signs, graphics, stickers, and a letter template for outreach to elected leaders. Community organizations are also encouraged to complete a partner form and join in this collective effort.
This national day of action draws attention to the ongoing challenges in our child care system. From underfunded programs to unaffordable care, the need for reform is urgent. On May 12, providers and families nationwide will be calling for an equitable child care system rooted in racial and gender justice, thriving wages for providers, and affordable access for all families.
Family child care homes are the backbone of Colorado’s economy—ensuring that families can work, children can thrive, and communities can grow. CAFCC’s campaign offers a meaningful way to raise awareness and take action, while keeping the doors open and voices heard.
Supporting Local Organizations and Families with Infants and Toddlers
Since 2020, CDEC, the Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance, and the Family Resource Center Association have partnered through various PDG B-5 initiatives to align, strengthen and expand local partnerships to support children and families. In the PDG B-5 Planning Grant, this work included creating a mini-grant opportunity to facilitate cross-sector, local planning around a topic voted on by local organizations.
The highest rated topic among local organizations was supporting families with infants and toddlers. In 2023, the opportunity was released and 14 local teams were awarded. Four regional in-person convenings were held to help local teams deepen their understanding of the issues; begin their planning process; and connect with one another. Thereafter, mini-grants and access to facilitators continued supporting local planning. A final, all-site convening was then held to share the local team plans, reflect on lessons learned and celebrate successes.
Several local planning teams were selected to participate in a video-based evaluation of this opportunity. Explore the videos below to learn more about how PDG B-5 funding aided local communities in developing plans to support families with infants and toddlers in their communities:
This work is responsive to PDG B-5 Planning Grant Strategy 4.2 Local Organizational Capacity Building - Shared Training and Facilitated Planning Regional Convenings.
Outdoor playground with colorful slides and climbing structures on soft flooring under a cloudy sky. Overlay text: "Your Stories."
Your Stories
Sharing Stories of Impact: Tree of Life and the Power of Community Support
At CDEC, we believe in the power of stories to inspire, connect, and highlight the real impact of early childhood investments. Each month, we’re proud to share stories from families, providers, and communities across the state who have been supported through CDEC programs and partnerships.
This month, we’re excited to feature Monica Martinez and Maria Cooper, the passionate founders of Tree of Life, a family child care home rooted in culture, community, and care. Their journey from a shared dream to a thriving program, shows how meaningful support and strong relationships can help providers grow and families flourish.
Two girls, one dream.
Four years ago, we—Monica Martinez and Maria Cooper—had a dream: to open our own childcare space. And we did it. The journey to bring that dream to life was filled with uncertainty and challenges. We navigated rules and regulations, built a business plan, sacrificed time with family and friends, studied hard, secured financing, and attended countless meetings.
But through it all, we had something powerful on our side—determination, focus, and a deep passion for building a career we truly love. Most importantly, we had the guidance of incredible mentors: Toni Green and the amazing team at ECPAC, and Susan Flood with RMC. Their support made all the difference.
We still remember the first time Toni reached out to us with an email, introducing herself and offering financial and educational resources. From that moment on, she became a guiding light—connecting all the missing pieces we didn’t know how to put together. Her expertise in early childhood education helped us navigate areas we had no prior knowledge of.
Head provider, Monica Martinez-Jaik wears pink scrubs and a young girl sits at a small table with educational cards in a bright, cheerful playroom.
Without the Emerging and Expanding Grant [from the Colorado Department of Early Childhood] — and Toni’s support throughout the entire funding process—it’s very possible that our dream wouldn’t have come to life the way we had envisioned it.
Two years ago, we opened the doors to our family childcare home, Tree of Life—a name inspired by the vibrant Mexican folk art árbol de la vida, or "tree of life." This symbol represents creation, family, cycle of life, and hope. Our vision is rooted in nurturing each child as a precious seed, with the belief that, with love and care of the whole community, they will grow into strong, flourishing trees. "We know your child is a precious seed who will grow into a beautiful, flourishing tree with the help of all."
We are a team of three dedicated individuals. Alongside us, Mónica and María, Leticia Jaik is also an essential part of Tree of Life. She prepares delicious and nutritious meals for the children each day. Combined with our professional training and a thoughtfully designed classroom—filled with materials and furnishings that inspire learning and play—our space has naturally attracted families who love what we offer. With the valuable support of the North Metro Denver SBDC, especially marketing consultant Diego Leyes, we were able to fill our childcare program quickly.
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Now, we’re excited to share that we’re planning to expand this year by opening a second location, allowing us to welcome more children from our community while maintaining the same high-quality care we’ve always provided. Once again, Toni has played a key role in this journey—she introduced us to a beautiful space that’s perfect for our new center. We plan to open our doors in the summer of 2025.
Our success story is also the story of our community—a story of mutual support, where helping others brings help in return. It’s a reflection of how the cycle of life or the Tree of Life continues to grow, create, nurture, and hold hope for a brighter future for our little ones.
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We Want to Hear From You!
Do you have a story to share about how early childhood programs have made a difference in your life or community? Whether it’s a success story, a memorable moment, a shout-out to someone who supported you, or any other experience, we’d love to hear from you!
Visit this link to share your experience and be part of celebrating the impact of early childhood care and education in our state.
A teacher kneels to greet a young child in a school uniform with a backpack. Overlay text: "Early Childhood Workforce."
Early Childhood Workforce
Child First Program
The Child First program strengthens Colorado's Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) workforce by integrating evidence-based, relationship-centered practices into community mental health systems. The program trains mental health professionals, care coordinators, and home visitors in a two-generation, trauma-informed model that addresses the complex challenges young children and their families face. By embedding reflective supervision and interdisciplinary collaboration, Child First helps build a workforce that is clinically skilled and attuned to the needs of infants, toddlers, and caregivers.
Through intensive training and ongoing coaching, Child First not only enhances the clinical capacity of individual practitioners but also transforms the systems in which they work. The program provides tools for recognizing and addressing early signs of emotional distress, attachment disruptions, and developmental concerns. This early intervention is crucial for preventing long-term mental health issues and promoting resilience. By emphasizing cultural humility, relationship-building, and strengths-based practices, Child First ensures mental health professionals are prepared to work effectively with diverse families and communities.
Since 2021, Invest in Kids, in partnership with the National Service Office for Child First, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, and the Behavioral Health Administration, has trained 55 professionals across Colorado, expanding the reach of the Child First model.
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