 Large red text reads "Monthly NEWSLETTER." Below it, smaller purple text says "Colorado Department of Early Childhood" and "JUNE 2025." At the top right is a Colorado "C" logo and the text "CDEC." The bottom half of the image shows a group of diverse young children wearing blue graduation caps, some smiling and looking forward.
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.
 Dr. Lisa Roy is smiling and standing outdoors in front of a brick building with "EARLY LEARNING AT GREGORY HI" visible on its facade. She is holding up a white paper with a drawing of two intertwined hearts, one green and one pink. A blue overlay with text "A NOTE FROM CDEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR" is in the foreground.
A Note From CDEC Executive Director
To our Early Childhood Friends,
Let me begin by extending heartfelt congratulations to all our recent Universal Preschool graduates and their families! It is inspiring to see these young learners embarking on their next chapter, well-prepared and "kindergarten-ready." We eagerly anticipate welcoming the third incoming class of Universal Preschool students this fall.
This past month, I have felt an overwhelming sense of community amongst our early childhood network in Colorado. From witnessing joy and pride at preschool graduation ceremonies to visiting early childhood programs that are making a huge difference for children, families, and early childhood professionals, I've been surrounded by individuals who are deeply committed to nurturing our youngest learners. This collective dedication is incredibly energizing, and I can think of no better place to be than surrounded by this network of passionate people!
As we enter this summer month, I feel deeply hopeful for the future of early childhood education in our state. Governor Jared Polis's recent signing of the 2025-26 State Budget, which includes increased funding for Child Care Assistance, Early Intervention, Universal Preschool, and related initiatives, signifies a significant step forward. The increased support and financial investment from both policymakers and community members demonstrate that our collaborative efforts are yielding positive change and providing the support our early childhood system rightly deserves.
This month has also underscored the critical importance of listening, learning, and amplifying the voices of local communities to build a stronger, more inclusive early childhood system.
 A split image. On the left, Dr. Lisa Roy and Kristina Heyl are standing side-by-side and smiling in front of a school playground. On the right, a young boy with a wide smile is holding up a yellow, sculpted object resembling a lion's head, in a classroom.
I attended a screening of the PBS documentary, “American Delivery,” which offered powerful insights into the U.S. maternal health crisis and reinforced the necessity of integrating maternal health support into our work. Furthermore, the opportunity to visit partners in Pueblo, including ECEMS at CSU Pueblo Child Care and Colorado Bluesky Enterprises, highlighted the importance of continued investment in quality childcare and early intervention services. Additional visits to see the Dinosaur School program at the Early Learning Center at Gregory Hill, a Spring Institute Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program home visit, the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program and food pantry at the Growing Home Family Resource Center, the Volunteers of America Early Head Start and Head Start Center, and the Preschool graduation at Lakewood Learning Center were incredibly energizing.
I was also blessed to attend the Colorado Children's Campaign event honoring Anna Jo Haynes, Senator Bridges, and Representative Sirota - true champions who support early care and education! These direct interactions are invaluable in shaping our work at the CDEC, and I am deeply grateful to the communities who generously share their experiences and perspectives!
 A split image. On the left, a diverse group of women attending the screening of American Delivery, are smiling and posing for a photo indoors. On the right, Dr. Lisa Roy is holding a green puppet, interacting with a young girl who is smiling and reaching for the puppet.
I feel so privileged to be a part of this vital work. This past month, when I was not attending site visits or meetings, I found joy in my personal life by attending my grandkids’ sports events, and supporting the Denver Women + Film festival. And, like many others, I also took some time to recharge in the sun during the vacation season!
Thank you for your continued support of the CDEC and Colorado’s early childhood system. I look forward to making more progress together this June and beyond!
With Gratitude,
 A group of diverse preschoolers are wearing blue graduation caps and gowns are standing and looking forward, some smiling. A purple overlay with text "COLORADO UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL UPDATES" is in the foreground.
Colorado Universal Preschool
As the 2024-2025 school year draws to a close, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood extends its warmest congratulations to all the young learners graduating from the Colorado Universal Preschool program! This marks a significant milestone for these children and their families, as they conclude a foundational year of growth, discovery, and preparation for kindergarten.
 A group of young children in blue graduation caps and gowns are seated on the floor, facing Governer Jared Polis who is speaking into a microphone. Adults are also present in the room, some standing in the background and others seated in the foreground. The room is decorated with blue and white balloons and graduation-themed banners.
We commend the dedication of the families, educators, and Colorado Universal Preschool providers across the state who have worked tirelessly to support these children. Your commitment to creating nurturing and stimulating environments has been instrumental in shaping these young minds.
 A collage of four images related to a preschool graduation. The top left and bottom left show children in blue graduation caps and gowns receiving diplomas. The top right shows an audience applauding. The bottom right shows a group of children posing, with balloons in the background. Text on the right reads "Congratulations to the Colorado Universal Preschool Class of 2025!" with a graduation cap and confetti icon.
As our newest graduates embark on their kindergarten journeys, we celebrate their achievements and bright futures.
Congratulations, Class of 2025!
An illustration of a colorful main street scene with various businesses like a "Community Library," "Henry's Hardware," "Tia's Florals," and "Sunny Day Cafe." People are walking on the sidewalk. A blue overlay with text "RAISING COLORADO KIDS" is in the foreground.
Raising Colorado Kids
Fantastic news to share! RaisingColoradoKids.com has hit the ground running, connecting with almost 40,000 new visitors in its first month. The user-friendly Early Childhood Services Finder is a standout hit, simplifying awareness and access to crucial early childhood services and family resources in this valuable one-stop-shop.
Join us in spreading the word! Our continuing goal is to make sure every Colorado family can easily find the support they need through RaisingColoradoKids.com. Explore the site and share it with a friend – together, we can help every family in our state thrive!
 A young child is kneeling in an aisle of a pantry, reaching for items in a small shopping cart. Shelves stocked with packaged goods are on the left. A red overlay with text "SHARE YOUR STORIES & THOUGHTS!" is in the foreground.
Share Your Stories & Thoughts
Share Your Stories
In gratitude to the far-reaching contributors continuing to elevate Colorado's early childhood ecosystem, please help us celebrate the impact of the many involved by sharing your stories, learnings, memories, shout-outs, and more.
Please share your stories, photos, videos, and more, here.
Public Consulting Group (PCG) is excited to share that they have launched the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) Independent Evaluation!
PCG needs your help to evaluate and shape the future of the CDEC!
The CDEC Independent Evaluation Webpage has information regarding how various constituent groups can sign up to participate in virtual focus groups (May – June) and links to take an online survey. These groups include:
- Families: Includes parents, foster parents, and primary caregivers for children should complete this survey.
- Early Childhood Professionals: Includes members of the workforce who deliver direct services to young children and/or families, such as home visitors, mental health providers, classroom teachers, family child care home providers, early interventionists, and others.
- Early Childhood Agency Leaders: Includes directors/administrators/owners of public, private for-profit or nonprofit organizations/businesses that provide direct early childhood and/or family support services for young children and/or families that are funded and/or regulated by the CDEC.
- Community Partners: Includes intermediary organizations that otherwise support or connect the early childhood system, e.g. LCOs, EC Councils, Family Resource Center, counties, philanthropic/advocacy, associations, professional preparation, etc. This includes both organizations that receive funding from the CDEC, as well as partner organizations not funded by the CDEC.
Help Spread the Word!
 A promotional flyer for the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) Independent Evaluation. The top left image shows an adult woman smiling and interacting with three young children. The top right image shows two adult women, one holding a baby, smiling and talking. The flyer encourages participation in a survey or focus groups to share experiences with CDEC programs and services, providing a QR code, website, and email for contact.
CDEC Independent Evaluation Toolkit, which contains materials (in English and Spanish) that provider agencies can share with families and EC professionals, including flyers, social media ready posts, newsletter text and banner.
Quick links:
Questions?
If you have additional questions regarding the evaluation, as well as regarding the opportunities to assist, please contact: CDECevaluation@pcgus.com.
 Four young children of diverse backgrounds are sitting on a colorful mat on the floor of a classroom, engaged in playing with small blocks or sorting shapes. Shelves with learning materials are visible in the background. A blue overlay with text "CDEC POLICY & LEGISLATION" is in the foreground.
Policy & Legislation
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) invites all community and public members to attend two (2) upcoming rulemaking-related meetings hosted by the Rules Advisory Council (RAC) and its County Subcommittee. These meetings are open to the public and will feature important informational presentations and opportunities for input. Your participation is encouraged as we work to strengthen services and support for Colorado’s children and families.
UPCOMING RULEMAKING MEETINGS
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RAC County Subcommittee Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
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Time: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
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Topic(s):
- Overview of proposed rules to support fund stacking for children dually enrolled in the Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK) and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP).
- Presentation from CCCAP on the second phase of implementation for House Bill 24-1223 and updated federal requirements under the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF).
- Co-Chair elections and the County Subcommittee’s annual Charter review.
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Rules Advisory Council (RAC) Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, June 12, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
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Topic(s):
- Overview of proposed UPK–CCCAP fund stacking rules to support child care providers and families navigating both programs.
- Informational update from CCCAP on House Bill 24-1223 implementation and federal CCDF requirements.
- Annual review of the RAC Bylaws.
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.
 A wide shot of a brightly lit conference room with tables and chairs arranged for a meeting or workshop. Several people, mostly women, are standing and interacting. There are large windows on the right wall. A red overlay with text "INSIDE CDEC: HIGHLIGHTS & HAPPENINGS" is in the foreground.
Inside CDEC: Highlights & Happenings
Happy Pride Month! 🏳️🌈🌈
We are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected and can be their authentic selves.
Let's come together to celebrate diversity, champion equality, and build a Colorado where everyone thrives!
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GlobalMindED Conference
Come learn with us at the GlobalMindED 10-Year Anniversary Conference!
At GlobalMindED Denver (June 16-18), you can expect 400+ speakers, 1000+ attendees, 300+ students, valuable connections, and unique learning opportunities.
This year's conference will feature Governors and Mayors from various states and cities in the U.S., audiences of all backgrounds, and industry experts. Plus, the opportunity to attend the Inclusive Leader Awards dinner, which opens the conference and honors 15 luminaries who are role models for industry leaders.
Register today, and be on the lookout for our CDEC team; we want to meet you!
Learn more and register on the 2025 GlobalMindED Conference website.
EQ Initiative Statewide Meeting
 A large group of diverse women are gathered in a bright room with large windows, smiling and posing for a group photo. Some are seated, others are standing. Tables with various items are visible in the foreground.
At the end of May, the Expanding Quality in Infant Toddler Initiatives engaged with 75 Infant Toddler Specialists from across the state of Colorado. The entire group came together in Glenwood Springs for three days of professional development to strengthen their understanding of the Expanding Quality in Infant Toddler Initiatives work and reinvigorate their shared sense of power in supporting the Infant and Toddler workforce.
Three images are side by side. The left image shows people gathered around tables in a meeting or classroom setting. The middle image shows an adult woman with a patterned headband holding a smiling young child. The right image shows three women standing together and smiling in front of a screen displaying a colorful butterfly graphic.
The EQ team, along with other Professional Learning and Design unit members, worked hard to bring this supportive and relationship-building event to fruition. Everyone enjoyed the fresh mountain air and thoughtful days of shared learning. The EQ Initiative was grateful for the time spent with these incredible leaders!
New Report Shows Robust Growth in Colorado Early Childhood Sector
New data from the 2025 KIDS COUNT data book reveals significant progress in preschool participation, child care capacity, teacher pay, early intervention screening and care, Head Start access, and more. These gains reflect the dedication and collaboration of communities, providers, educators, and families across Colorado. Together, we are making a real difference for our children!
Early Intervention Participates in Sleep Training
Early Intervention (EI) Colorado (CO) recently participated in the two-day, 12-hour Pediatric Sleep Intervention Certificate Training offered by the Palm Pediatric Training Institute and provided by Courtney Palm. The specialized training is designed for experienced pediatric specialists interested in learning about the specifics of assessment and treatment of pediatric sleep conditions. The training emphasizes a "whole-child" perspective, providing a more integrated understanding of each child and family's unique needs.
The two-day training focused on the connections between health, nutrition, development, sensory processing, and attachment, all of which contribute to successful sleep outcomes. The curriculum addresses the unique sleep challenges faced by both neurotypical and neurodivergent children. Topics included understanding sleep foundations and neuro-developmental sleep stages, the whole body sleep system, and developmental and medical conditions affecting sleep. Additionally, participants received guided support in utilizing the Sleep Triangle Assessment tool and formulating individualized, thorough sleep plans through case study work. The content provided in the training comes from peer-reviewed journal articles or accredited professional organizations.
The sleep recommendations are informed by the recommendations provided by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American Academy of Pediatrics. EI CO had the opportunity to participate in the training alongside approximately 20 early intervention providers from various disciplines who provide services for children in early intervention. Providers who completed this training can incorporate the Pediatric Health and Sleep Screeners into their practice and utilize all handouts and information in the Pediatric Sleep Intervention Provider Handbook while supporting families, infants, and toddlers and their sleep outcomes. Additional information, as well as future training opportunities, can be found on the website: https://www.palm-pti.org/
 A group of five diverse men are seated in a circle in, talking and smiling. The man in the center foreground is holding a notepad and smiling. A blue overlay with text "COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT" is in the foreground.
Community & Family Support
Public-Private Partnerships Transforming Colorado Child Care
Three new child care sites are launching in Colorado through the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and EPIC’s innovative Design Lab, creating more than 300 new child care slots, including much-needed infant and toddler care. This model demonstrates the long-term impact of thoughtful public investment and private sector leadership.
Read how Colorado is setting the national standard in the press release.
Celebrating Dads This June: Support Through the Colorado Fatherhood Program
June is a time to honor and celebrate the important role fathers and father figures play in the lives of children and families. In recognition of Father’s Day, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood proudly highlights the Colorado Fatherhood Program, which helps build strong, resilient families across our state.
With seven programs operating statewide, the Colorado Fatherhood Program equips dads and father figures with tools to strengthen positive parenting skills, foster healthy relationships, and support family well-being. In addition to parenting support, participants are connected to essential services like job training, housing resources, and child support services.
 A father and son hold hands, looking at each other, with text asking "Why should dads join a fatherhood program?" listing benefits like growing parenting skills and strengthening relationships.
Let’s celebrate the dads who show up every day—and continue building brighter futures for Colorado families.
Learn more and find a program near you: cdec.colorado.gov/colorado-fatherhood-program
Financial Health as Self-Care
Did you know that improving your financial well-being is a form of self-care? You can reduce the stress and anxiety that comes from financial uncertainty by taking a few moments each week to reflect on whether you are making choices that are aligned with your values rather than from feelings of scarcity. This isn’t about accumulating wealth for its own sake, but rather about creating a stable foundation that supports your overall quality of life and reduces a significant source of stress that many families face.
When you invest time in your financial health, you’re essentially caring for your family’s future. Here are a few steps you might take, just like walking some steps to improve your physical well-being:
- Start an emergency fund that can provide peace of mind. You can start small, just like you would a physical exercise, since the goal is to make it a routine.
- Look at your spending habits. How can you make one small change to align your spending more with your personal values?
- Are you giving more than is good for you? How can you set some financial boundaries that protect your resources while still showing that you care?
- How about scheduling a half hour each month to plan for future needs and goals rather than just reacting to crises?
Like other forms of self-care, financial health requires ongoing attention, intentional habits, and remembering why it’s important to you in the long run. Creating a financial health routine can give you a sense of security and allow you to focus on what really matters in your life.
If you want some savings inspiration from the Financial Health Institute, you can take this online course at no cost. Use the coupon code: freecourse
For further information and resources, please visit the Financial Health Institute website.
An overhead shot of an adult and three young children drawing or coloring on large white papers spread across a table. Crayons and markers are visible. A purple overlay with text "EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKFORCE" is in the foreground.
Early Childhood Workforce
Adapt to Impact
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the new Adapt to Impact project!
Adapt to Impact provides ongoing professional development, resources, and access to a loan library of adaptive equipment, toys, and materials at no cost to licensed Colorado family childcare homes, centers, and preschools. It helps programs offer learning environments and activities that support children with delays and disabilities.
Through new funding from the Colorado Department of Education and Early Intervention Colorado, this program continues supporting a variety of the services previously offered by Project Include and the Colorado Early Learning: Inclusion & Universal Design Project including:
- A new Adapt to Impact website
- An expanded Loan Library with a new online catalogue and library system to borrow adaptive materials, toys, puzzles and resources
- New online, asynchronous Moodle courses available through PDIS in addition to the Introduction to Universal Design course
- Access to universal design kits of adaptive toys, materials and resources available to borrow through most ECCs
- An expansive collection of 2-10 minute video training resources to support the adaptive items in the library and kits
- Access to support from Center for Innovative Design and Engineering staff and faculty at the University of Colorado Denver.
Please help us in getting the word out to childcare providers in Colorado. Interested providers can complete the Adapt to Impact intake form: Adapt to Impact - Get Started!
If you have any questions, contact the project team at AdaptCIDE@ucdenver.edu.
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