Friday, May 8, 2015 is Provider Appreciation Day. This is a special day to recognize child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children everywhere. It was started by a group of volunteers in 1996 and is appropriately celebrated each year on the Friday before Mother’s Day.
“By recognizing the hard work of child care providers, we remind people of the importance of quality child care. We should recognize and value the important work that child care providers do,” said Carol Jensen, parent and community services specialist and Child Care Resource and Referral in Carroll.
“Every day, approximately 800child care programs in Southwest Iowa have the capacity to care for more than 14,000 children. This does not include children who are in school or with family, friends or neighbors,” said Jensen.“The children, parents and employers of Southwest Iowa depend on child care providers to take care of children’s needs.”
“For working parents, child care is an important part of their life,” she continued. “When a parent is happy with the person who is taking care of their child, they can be more productive at work. They must choose a child care arrangement that is a partner for the benefit of all, especially the child.”
Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) is a program of West Central Community Action. Funding is provided by the Department of Human Services through the Child Care Development Fund, and local funds. To learn more about Provider Appreciation Day or for ideas on how you can thank your child care provider, visit www.providerappreciationday.org. For a referral or information on quality care, call Child Care Resource and Referral at 1-800-945-9778.
