 A newsletter cover with the text "Monthly NEWSLETTER" and "SEPTEMBER 2025." The image shows a group of adults and children wearing hard hats and safety vests at a groundbreaking event. The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) logo is in the top right corner.
In This Issue:
 Dr. Lisa Roy, CDEC Executive Director, smiling, leaning on a piano, holding an award. Text overlay: "A NOTE FROM CDEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR."
A Note From CDEC Executive Director
My Early Childhood Family,
It is so exciting to see children thriving as they enter classrooms either for the first time or return to familiar settings. As our youngest learners embark upon these milestones in their development, our early childhood educators and providers are working harder than ever to foster enriching learning experiences for the next generation of leaders, setting them on the path to success!
This month, we are celebrating many events that are dear to our work. We are honoring the vital work of Family, Friend, and Neighbor caregivers during FFN Appreciation Week, September 7-12. We’re also celebrating the rich culture and contributions that strengthen our early childhood ecosystem during Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15-October 15. Finally, we are shining a spotlight on our work as we share vital baby safety tips during Baby Safety Awareness month.
I am also reflecting back on a fruitful month of connection and the crucial steps we have taken toward making Colorado the best place in the country to raise a family. I joined some of our partners in Ouray to celebrate the groundbreaking of a project that combines affordable housing with child care to simultaneously address two pressing shortages facing families. I also had the pleasure of attending the groundbreaking of the new Alice Bemis Taylor Center for Early Education, an expansion of Early Connections Learning Centers in Colorado Springs that will accommodate an additional 140 children!
 Selfie of Dr. Lisa Roy and Mo Miskell, Deputy Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, smiling outdoors.
Along with these inspiring experiences, I received the exciting news that I’ve been appointed to the Education Commission of the States' Steering Committee for the 2025-27 term. My appointment will bring Colorado's innovative early learning approaches to the national forefront, ensuring that early childhood needs are represented in national policy conversations!
On a more personal note, this past month, I’ve enjoyed an opportunity to attend the African American Film Festival at Martha's Vineyard. It was incredible to see so many films of all types and participate in a live podcast by Michelle Obama and her brother, and also hear from actresses Issa Rae and Tracy Ellis Ross. I was also able to visit the hot springs in Ouray while there for work, and finally, I am spending my birthday weekend at the Napa Jazzfest. Bucket list!
Thank you for your continued dedication to creating a better future for kids and families. I look forward to connecting with you again next month!
With Gratitude,
 Two young children playing in a pile of autumn leaves. Text overlay: CDEC POLICY & LEGISLATION.
CDEC Policy & Legislation
CDEC 2026 Departmental Regulatory Agenda
As part of the SMART Act requirements due on November 1, 2025, the Department is seeking your feedback to help inform and shape the development of its 2026 Departmental Regulatory Agenda. This is an important opportunity for public members to reflect on how the Department’s existing administrative rules are impacting families, providers, and communities to recommend improvements, and/or identify any gaps that should be considered to provide needed clarity. The Department is particularly interested in identifying improvements that will:
- Reduce administrative burdens on families and providers;
- Decrease duplication and conflicts in program implementation;
- Increase equity in access and outcomes for children and families;
- Improve administrative efficiencies; and
- Ensure rules are coordinated across programs and services to improve access, quality, and ease of implementation at the state, local, and tribal levels.
Please submit your recommendations by September 15, 2025, using the CDEC 2026 Departmental Regulatory Agenda Development - Google form.
Upcoming Rulemaking Updates
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RAC County Subcommittee Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
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Time: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
- Topic(s):
- Vote on a recommendation regarding the proposed permanent rules that serve as the second phase of the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program’s (CCCAP) implementation of Colorado House Bill 24-1223.
- Discussion and feedback session to help inform the CDEC 2026 Departmental Regulatory Agenda.
- Please Note: The Department originally planned for the RAC County Subcommittee to review and vote on the Child Care Licensing, Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Program (ONB) rules in September; however, due to the comprehensive and novel nature of these new regulations and the importance of ensuring clarity and consistency in expectations for implementing partners, the Department is adjusting the timeline. Please review the CDEC Rule Tracker for changes to this rulemaking.
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Rules Advisory Council (RAC) Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m
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Topic(s):
- Vote on a recommendation regarding the proposed permanent rules that serve as the second phase of the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program’s (CCCAP) implementation of Colorado House Bill 24-1223.
- Discussion and feedback session to help inform the CDEC 2026 Departmental Regulatory Agenda.
- Please Note: The Department originally planned for the RAC to review and vote on the Child Care Licensing, Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Program (ONB) rules in September; however, due to the comprehensive and novel nature of these new regulations and the importance of ensuring clarity and consistency in expectations for implementing partners, the Department is adjusting the timeline. Please review the CDEC Rule Tracker for changes to this rulemaking.
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Public Rulemaking Hearing (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
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Permanent Rulemaking:
- Discussion Hearing on the second phase of CCCAP’s rules to implement Colorado House Bill 24-1223.
- Please Note: The Child Care Licensing, Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Program rules will not be discussed during this hearing as originally planned. Please review the CDEC Rule Tracker for adjustments to the rulemaking timeline.
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 young girl with pigtails in a pink shirt, playing with animal toys. Text overlay: "YOUR STORIES."
Your Stories
Celebrating FFN Caregivers: A Heartfelt Thank You to Marisol Quintana
September 7-12 marks Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Provider Appreciation Week, a time when we proudly honor these indispensable caregivers who are so vital to our early childhood community. It's estimated that over 50% of all Colorado families rely on FFN care from grandparents, aunts, relatives, friends, nannies, or neighbors!
Meet Marisol Quintana: a provider who feels proud when families trust her with the care of their children. “Knowing that I contribute to their development and that parents feel at ease fills me with professional pride,” Marisol said.
Recalling a moment that meant the most to her, she said, “The success for me was when a boy who hardly spoke in class called me by my name for the first time. That little moment made me feel like my effort and love really make a difference.”
Marisol supports her community by working diligently to ensure every child in her care thrives. She concluded by saying, “My success isn’t just a single achievement, but every step the children take: when they learn something new, share with their friends, or feel secure in my care.” Thank you, Marisol, for providing compassionate care to the children in your community!
 Two images showing children playing. On the left, two young children ride on blue toy animals. On the right, two children play with building blocks and dolls by a window.
See Marisol’s story in Spanish:
“Mi mayor éxito personal ha sido ver que las familias confiaron en mí para el cuidado de sus hijos. Saber que aporto a su desarrollo y que los padres se sienten tranquilos me llena de orgullo profesional. El éxito para mí fue cuando un niño que no hablaba casi nada en clase me llamó por mi nombre por primera vez. Ese pequeño momento me hizo sentir que mi esfuerzo y cariño realmente marcan la diferencia. Mi éxito personal no es un solo logro, sino cada avance de los niños: cuando aprenden algo nuevo, comparte con sus amigos o se sienten seguros en mi cuidado.
Sharing Stories, Elevating Our Community
Help us shine a light on the incredible people who make a difference in our early childhood community! In gratitude to the far-reaching contributors who continue to elevate Colorado's early childhood ecosystem, please help us celebrate their impact by sharing your stories, learnings, memories, and shout-outs. We're collecting experiences from providers, families, partners, and community members.
Please share your stories, photos, and videos through this link.
 An event space with many people seated at round tables. Text overlay: "INSIDE CDEC: HIGHLIGHTS & HAPPENINGS."
Inside CDEC: Highlights & Happenings
 A man and woman smiling at a young child they are holding. A red banner on the left has decorative corners and the text: "Hispanic Heritage Month. September 15 - October 15.”
CDEC Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
The CDEC proudly celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15), recognizing the rich histories, cultures, and significant contributions of the Hispanic community in Colorado. This month is an opportunity to honor the profound and positive influence this community has had on our early childhood system and beyond!
To our beloved Hispanic families: what does your culture and community mean to you? How does it impact your young children?
To our dedicated, Hispanic early childhood professionals: how does your culture impact your work in the early childhood sector?
Share your stories for a chance to be featured on our external channels during Hispanic Heritage Month here: https://bit.ly/CDECStories
Dr. Lisa Roy Named One of Colorado's Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business
We are thrilled to announce that CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy has been honored by the Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce as one of this year's Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business.
The annual gala, themed "I Am Legendary," celebrated the lasting impact of women who are building legacies and making history.
We are incredibly grateful for Dr. Roy's leadership and the profound impact she has had on Colorado's early childhood sector. This recognition is a testament to her dedication and a well-deserved honor. We are so proud of her!
Watch the tribute video.
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An Innovative Approach to Housing and Child Care in Ouray
 Attendees at the Rural Homes Colorado Ribbon Cutting & Childcare event.
Colorado families are facing dual challenges with the housing crisis and a shortage of child care. An innovative new initiative in Ouray is tackling both issues head-on by combining affordable home construction with the creation of new family child care homes.
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy recently attended the Rural Homes Colorado Ribbon Cutting & Childcare event to celebrate this new model. The program provides Family Child Care Home Providers with the necessary training, a new home, and resources to launch their own licensed child care businesses. This approach not only increases the number of available child care slots but also helps address the need for affordable housing.
 Two images showing a childcare center. The left image shows a group of adults inside a classroom. The Right image shows the exterior of the building with a sign that reads, “OURAY A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT CHILDCARE.”
A huge thanks goes to Bright Futures for Early Childhood and Families and Mission Driven Finance for making this project possible.
A special congratulations to Melissa McChristian of Ouray Family Childcare and Estrella Piatt of Tiny Colorado Treasures Childcare for completing the rigorous process to launch their new businesses through this groundbreaking initiative!
A Groundbreaking Step for Early Education in Colorado Springs
 A group of young children wearing yellow hard hats and orange safety vests are playing with shovels in a large pile of dirt. One child's vest has the text "SAFE WORK."
More affordable child care slots are on the way to Colorado Springs!
We celebrated a significant milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Alice Bemis Taylor Center for Early Education. This expansion of Early Connections Centers will create 140 child care slots, including 70 new spaces for children from six weeks to five years old.
 A group of community leaders are standing behind a large pile of dirt with shovels. The adults are wearing hard hats and business attire, and the children are wearing hard hats and safety vests. A sign in the dirt reads "early connections LEARNING CENTERS." The event is a groundbreaking for an expansion of Early Connections Centers.
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy attended the event joining other community leaders, Mayor Yemi Mobolade, Kyle Hybl, President and CEO, El Pomar Foundation, Thayer Tutt, Vice Chairman and Chief Investment Officer, El Pomar Foundation, Chris Jenkins, President and CEO, Norwood Foundation, and Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President & CEO, Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC to celebrate this major step toward making Colorado the best state in the nation to raise a family. This new center is a testament to our shared commitment to increasing access to high-quality, affordable early care and education for all Colorado families.
Read the front page feature on The Gazette or watch on KKTV and KOAA.
Investing in Colorado Families: A Visit from HRSA Leadership
In late August, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) was honored to welcome Tom Engles, Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), along with the Region 8 HRSA team, for a special visit to Colorado’s Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program. HRSA is the federal agency that administers MIECHV funding nationwide, ensuring states, tribes, and communities have the resources to deliver effective home visiting services. As Administrator, Mr. Engles oversees this work at the national level, making his visit a meaningful opportunity to highlight Colorado’s impact and innovation in serving families. The visit highlighted the power of home visiting and included conversations with local implementing organizations, dedicated home visiting staff, and—most importantly—the families and children whose lives are strengthened by these services.
 Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Former Colorado Governor Roy Romer, Chancellor Kenneth Christensen, Dean Marvin Lynn, Dr. Lisa Roy, Reed Martin, and 2025 SEHD Alumni Leadership Award recipients
Supported by CDEC leadership and state intermediaries, Parent Possible and Invest in Kids, home visiting in Colorado MIECHV is built on three evidence-based models that deliver proven results:
Parents as Teachers (PAT)
Parents as Teachers empowers caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to be their child’s first and most important teacher. Through regular visits, families receive guidance on child development, strategies to support early learning, and resources to foster a strong parent–child bond. PAT is especially impactful in preparing children for school success and helping parents feel confident in their role.
Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY)
HIPPY focuses on building school readiness by partnering directly with parents. Through a structured curriculum and easy-to-use materials, families engage in fun, developmentally appropriate activities that promote literacy, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth. The program is designed to meet families where they are, building strong foundations for lifelong learning.
Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP)
NFP pairs first-time, income-eligible parents with registered nurses who provide guidance from pregnancy through the child’s second birthday. Focusing on maternal health, child development, and family stability, NFP is proven to improve birth outcomes, reduce child maltreatment, and support economic self-sufficiency. Families not only gain health knowledge but also receive a trusted partner during the early years of parenting.
Together, these programs provide more than 22,000 home visits to Colorado families each year, helping parents feel supported, ensuring children are ready to thrive, and strengthening communities for generations to come.
The message from the HRSA Administrator’s visit was clear: home visiting works. Families experience healthier pregnancies, stronger parent–child relationships, improved school readiness, and greater overall well-being. By hosting HRSA leadership, Colorado demonstrated how it is leading the way nationally in delivering high-quality, evidence-based home visiting services that make a lasting difference for families.
To learn more about home visiting in Colorado—and to find a program near you—visit the Colorado Home Visiting Coalition website today. When we invest in families, we invest in Colorado’s future.
 A grandmother sitting on a couch, helping two young children with a craft or activity. Text overlay: "COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT."
Community & Family Support
 An orange and purple poster for PBS Kids Fest. The poster features Clifford the Big Red Dog on the left, Arthur on the top right, and Elinor the bear from "Elinor Wonders Why" on the bottom right. Text reads: "ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS KIDS FEST. GRAND JUNCTION. Saturday/Sábado October/Octubre 4. 10 AM - 2 PM. LAS COLONIAS PARK. 1601 Riverfront Dr, Grand Junction, CO 81501. VISIT RMPBS.ORG/KIDS FOR MORE INFORMATION. PARA MÁS INFORMACIÓN VISITA RMPBS.ORG/KIDS."
Rocky Mountain PBS KIDS Fest
Come join us at Rocky Mountain PBS KIDS FEST on October 4th at Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction from 10am-2pm. Rocky Mountain PBS will be bringing Clifford, Daniel Tiger, and more favorite characters, and can’t wait to welcome hundreds of families to the park! We would love any family serving organizations to participate—it’s free for partners to attend to share more about what you do. We only ask that organizations bring educational and fun activities to do with families during the day to brighten their day and yours.
Read the details about participating and let us know you’re interested in participating! And please feel free to share the event registration link with families too!
The Critical Role of FFN Child Care
Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) child care providers are a cornerstone of Colorado's early childhood care system. These providers, who are legally license-exempt and care for four or fewer children, are often relatives, friends, or neighbors. They offer a flexible and affordable alternative to traditional child care, and over half of Colorado families rely on them. Research indicates that families of color, as well as immigrant and refugee families, disproportionately depend on FFN care due to historical systemic inequities in access to health and education. Despite their vital role, FFN providers have historically lacked adequate recognition and resources. To address this gap, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) is implementing new strategies to better support and integrate them into the state's early care system.
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) has made a historic move by creating the nation's first legislatively mandated Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Advisory Council. This group is composed of leaders who have a deep commitment to empowering FFN providers, recognizing them as a vital part of Colorado's early childhood workforce. The council's vision is to advocate for equitable access to resources, education, and opportunities for these essential caregivers.
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 Three images show children in various activities. The left panel shows a woman helping a young girl with glasses draw. The middle panel shows a group of children sitting on the floor, playing a game with cards. The right panel shows a woman holding a baby.
The FFN Advisory Council is a groundbreaking group of leaders who are deeply committed to empowering these essential caregivers. The council's vision is to advocate for equitable access to resources, education, and opportunities for the FFN community.
The council’s primary purpose is to serve as a direct voice for FFN providers. It advises CDEC, legislators, and other organizations on the specific needs of the community and recommends changes to policies, regulations, and procedures that would benefit them.
The council meets monthly to fulfill this important mission, and the public is welcome to attend and learn more about their work.
Resources and Contact
To stay informed about the council's work, including access to agendas, meeting minutes, and member lists, you can visit their public folder.
For any questions, you can reach out to the staff contact, Cristina Herman.
And don't forget to sign up for the FFN Newsletter to get the latest updates delivered straight to your inbox.
FFN Texting Program
 A caregiver is sitting on the floor surrounded by three babies. She's holding a book and smiling as she reads to the babies, who are all looking at the book or at her. The text on the image reads: "Join me in receiving tips and activities to engage with kids and provide quality care! Text FFN to 274448."
Text FFN to 274 448 to get tips and resources that will help you as you provide care for the child in your life. This includes info about claiming tax credits (this can be confusing–we break it down for you!), professional growth opportunities, connections to other FFN providers and much more.
One FFN provider says, “I believe the FFN channel will help solve the challenge of isolation by giving caregivers a platform where they feel seen, heard, and equipped with practical tools and encouragement. I’ve spent long days in homes with small children, often completely alone. While the work is deeply meaningful, it can also be incredibly isolating. Without a larger community to connect with, it’s easy to feel like you’re carrying the emotional and physical weight of caregiving in silence. The FFN channel offers a space to break that silence—to share, connect, and learn alongside others who truly understand what this work requires.”
Messages are free and offered in English, Spanish and Arabic. Any FFN provider can sign up by simply texting FFN to 274 448.
Learn more at: www.mylantern.org/ffn.
September is Baby Safety Month: A Look at the PLAYbook
 A notebook-style drawing with school-related items like a backpack, microscope, and school bus. The text on the page reads, "The PLAYbook! Learning Through Play for Colorado's Families and Caregivers." At the bottom is the Colorado Department of Early Childhood logo.
September is Baby Safety Month, a perfect time to highlight a vital resource for caregivers: The PLAYbook. This guide goes beyond fun activities, weaving essential health and safety tips into everyday routines for children from birth to age five.
The PLAYbook connects directly to the principles of Baby Safety Month by emphasizing that a child's learning is built on a foundation of safety. It's filled with practical checklists and advice on a wide range of topics, including:
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Infant Care: Learn how to practice safe sleep by putting babies to sleep on their backs in a bare crib with only a firm mattress and a fitted sheet.
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Childproofing: Get tips for keeping your home safe as babies start to explore and toddlers begin to walk, like keeping small objects that could be choking hazards out of reach and covering electrical outlets.
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Health and Nutrition: Find guidance on everything from cleaning a baby's gums before their first tooth comes in to introducing new foods to a picky eater.
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Caregiver Well-being: The book also includes a section on self-care, acknowledging that a caregiver's physical and mental health is crucial for a child's well-being.
Use the PLAYbook to make your home a safe and engaging environment where children feel secure and are ready to learn.
The PLAYbook is currently available in:
Back-To-School: Importance of Routines with Dr. Rosemarie Allen
In a recent 9NEWS interview, Dr. Rosemarie Allen highlighted the importance of routines for children as they return to school. She explained that consistent schedules provide kids with a crucial sense of predictability, safety, and security, which helps them succeed throughout the school year. Dr. Allen offered practical tips for parents to establish effective and fun morning, evening, and bedtime routines.
Watch the full video for more information.
Our Early Childhood Mental Health Support Line Team is here to support you & your community!
The Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) Support Line is a free resource available to anyone in Colorado caring for children under age 6. We encourage outreach from parents/guardians, early childhood educators and administrators, and service providers. Our team of experienced ECMH Consultants offer brief phone consultations, answer questions about consultation services, and help callers connect to referrals and resources across the state. As we enter the back-to-school season, this service may be helpful for caregivers navigating transitions, routines, and emotional wellbeing for young children.
 An illustration of a woman with long black hair, wearing a green sweater and blue pants, helping a young child with glasses at a small yellow table. The background is a cream color with orange and green stars. The text reads: "THEIR MENTAL HEALTH STARTS WITH SOMEONE IMPORTANT: YOU. Click below to request a consultation or call (833) - ECMH411." Below the text is a logo of a red heart and the words "EVERY CHILD'S MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS.
You can reach us in two easy ways:
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Call Us: Speak directly with a consultant Monday–Friday, 10:30 AM–5:30 PM at (833) ECMH-411.
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Online Referral Form: Connect with a consultant in your area through our Online Referral Form (Español).
Know someone who could benefit? Share our 30-second video — [para español haga clic aquí] and FAQ sheet (Español).
Be sure to check out the children's book list curated by Colorado Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) consultants, clinically-trained mental health specialists with expertise in early childhood development. Book categories include:
- Social-emotional learnings and feelings
- Attachment relationships
- Body safety and consent
- Self-love and acceptance
- Trauma
- Diversity and inclusion
- Diverse families
You can find the book list under “More Resources for Supporting Young Children” at MentalHealthStartsEarly.com.
 A turquoise text banner with red heard on the far left side that reads: "EVERY CHILD'S MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS" and "(833)-ECMH411."
New Local Government Child Care Planning Grant Program OPEN NOW!
This brand new program provides planning grants to local and tribal governments to help them better understand child care needs and adopt policy and regulatory best practices in order to promote the development of child care. Capital construction and design funds are not available through this program.
- Municipalities, counties, Tribal governments, and early childhood development service districts are invited to apply by September 24, 2025 by 5 p.m. MST.
- Interested applicants must schedule a pre-application meeting with program staff to explore ideas, discuss proposed projects and funding eligibility before applying.
Learn more about this program: https://cdola.colorado.gov/local-government-childcare-planning-grant-program
 A smiling teacher is helping a young child build a molecule model. Text overlay: "EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKFORCE."
Early Childhood Workforce
New Coaching Guide Supports Early Childhood Professionals
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood is excited to announce the release of a new guide designed to support both new and experienced coaches in the early childhood field. This valuable resource is the result of a collaborative effort between the Regional Coach Network (RCN) and the Coaching Implementation Guide Work Group, which includes coaches and coaching supporters from across Colorado.
This comprehensive guide serves as a foundational framework for early childhood coaching in our state, helping new coaches understand their role while also providing valuable insights for seasoned professionals to enhance their work. It sets a clear vision for how coaching can be implemented effectively, ensuring quality support for early childhood educators throughout Colorado.
Early Childhood Professionals: Complete the Income and Benefits Survey in PDIS
The PDIS has an Income and Benefits Survey to collect information on the current state of compensation and benefits for the early childhood workforce in Colorado. CDEC is committed to supporting improved compensation for the early childhood workforce, and this data will help us see our progress and inform future policies to increase compensation and access to benefits.
Please complete the survey today: 50 early childhood professionals who complete the survey by September 30 will be randomly selected to receive $100 as a thank you for participating. You can access the survey using the blue ‘Income & Benefits Survey’ button at the top right of your PDIS Home Dashboard.
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