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Since 1995, the Friday before Mother's Day has been dedicated as Family Child Care Appreciation Day. In Minnesota, we honor our more than 5,400 family child care providers for their loving dedication to Minnesota's children. Governor Walz has honored the occasion with an official proclamation, highlighting family child care providers as "compassionate, dependable, and highly skilled professionals who understand child development, create nurturing and safe learning environments, and support children and their families as they grow and thrive."
Family child care providers play a uniquely important role in Minnesota's early childhood system—offering nurturing, stable, and personalized care that helps children learn, grow, and thrive. I recognize how difficult it's been for family child care providers in recent years, and notably, these past few months. Family child care providers wear many hats—educators, business owners, a nurturing presence in children's lives, and a resource to parents in your community. And many of you do all of that in your own home. Your commitment to children and your community is unwavering, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for the incredible work you do every day.
My appreciation extends far beyond a single week. Thank you for every early morning, every thoughtful learning moment, every comforting word, and every effort you make to ensure children have the strong start they deserve.
With appreciation,
Bharti Wahi
Assistant Commissioner for Early Childhood
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