Join us at the evening webinar for Get Kids Ready on December 9. | Review the CCPP! It’s time to check/update your Provider Portal prices. | The November Child Care Bridge Payments update period is closed. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 
 

Use DCF’s New Online Roadmap to Child Care Regulation to navigate becoming licensed or certified! | Review the updated Get Kids Ready FAQs. | Read the new DCF/DHS Child Care Basics: Immunization Requirements publication. | Learn about the ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula recall. | Complete your November Bridge Payments application by November 23. | Send in your Business Information Form (BIF) by November 30. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Organize your Child Care Bridge Payment records now! | Listen to the October Tuesday Talks recording. | Brush up on your Wisconsin Shares Program Integrity training! | Send in your Business Information Form (BIF) by November 30. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Start organizing your records for November Count Weeks for Child Care Bridge Payments. | Complete the short EL-TAI kindergarten transition survey by November 15. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about the Wisconsin DHS November FoodShare updates. | Check out the new Get Kids Ready FAQs. | See the new Spanish Wisconsin Shares Subsidy Usage flyer. | The October Child Care Bridge Payments update period is closed. | Reminder: Read about the Waukesha office closure effective October 31. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

View the updated Wisconsin Regulated Child Care Provider Dashboard. | Review the CCPP! It’s time to check/update your Provider Portal prices. | Finalize your application/update for October Child Care Bridge Payments. | Read the important Child Care Provider Portal Security reminders. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners.

Get ready to complete your application/update for October Child Care Bridge Payments. | Join us on Tuesday, October 21 for Tuesday Talks with DECE. | Read about the Waukesha office closure effective October 31. | Reminder: Complete your WMELS Update Survey. | Read about the upcoming changes to the Child Care Finder. | Apply for FEMA flooding assistance by November 12. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Learn more about the Two New YoungStar Policy Updates. | Download the Wisconsin Shares Subsidy Usage Policy flyer to share with parents/caregivers. | Start organizing your records for October Count Weeks for Child Care Bridge Payments. | Reminder: Check out the new DCF Early Childhood Training and Technical Assistance webpage! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

View the latest 2025-27 Biennial Budget Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Regulation and Get Kids Ready. | Read updated Group Licensing Rule Books related to ratio changes. | Check out the new DCF Early Childhood Training and Technical Assistance webpage! | Catch up on Tuesday Talks with DECE and watch the September recording. | The September Child Care Bridge Payments update period is closed. | Reminder: Read Governor Evers’ press release about the Wisconsin Shares rate increase effective October 1. | Reminder: Learn about Wisconsin Shares subsidy usage policy changes effective October 1. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about the Wisconsin Shares rate increase effective October 1. | Learn about Wisconsin Shares subsidy usage policy changes effective October 1. | Complete your September Child Care Bridge Payments update/application by September 28. | Take the WMELS Statewide Survey today! | Review the Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease reminders. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Get ready to update your Child Care Bridge Payments application. | Read and learn more about the WMELS update process. | Watch for WIIN Grant funding opportunities for free lead-in-water testing. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read the latest Get Kids Ready FAQs. | Download the updated Staff-to-Child Ratio Worksheet. | Save the Date! Join us on September 16 for Tuesday Talks with DECE. | Update your Provider Portal staff information today! | Get ready for the next Child Care Bridge Payments update/application week. | Reminder: DCF is hiring a Northern Region Licensing and Certification Specialist position. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Catch up on Tuesday Talks and listen to the August recording. | Complete your Business Information Form (BIF) survey today! | The August Child Care Bridge Payments update period is closed. | Reminder: DCF is hiring a Northern Region Licensing and Certification Specialist position. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about Gov. Evers’ statewide tour highlighting Child Care Bridge Payments. | Learn more about new measles cases in Wisconsin. | Complete your Child Care Bridge Payment update/application by August 31. | Explore the American Red Cross flooding assistance and resources. | Learn more about radon testing after flooding. | Read about the Early Childhood Health Consultation (ECHC) program pause starting September 5. | Reminder: Child Care Foundational Training subsidy is ending on August 31. | Reminder: Encourage families to request fall Wisconsin Shares authorizations now. | Reminder: DCF is hiring a Northern Region Licensing and Certification Specialist position. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

$8.7 million delivered to child care providers through Child Care Bridge Payments. | Learn about available flooding assistance. | Get ready to apply for August Child Care Bridge Payments Update/Application Week. | Reminder: Child Care Foundational Training (CCFT) subsidy ends on August 31. | Encourage families to request fall Wisconsin Shares authorizations now. | DCF is hiring a Northern Region Licensing and Certification Specialist position. | Apply for the 4C For Children Spanish Training Consultant position. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Be safe when dealing with flooding in your home or business. | Get ready for the next Child Care Bridge Payments application period. | Read the August Measles Reminders and review the resources. | Save the date: Join us August 19 for Tuesday Talks with DECE.

View the July Child Care Bridge Payments letter in the Child Care Provider Portal on August 15. | Understand the importance of monitoring air quality before going outdoors. | Review the Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Resources! | Learn more about WEESSN Child Care Business Coaching. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 
 

Finalize your Child Care Bridge Payments initial application today! | Read about the Early Care and Education Biennial Budget information | Brush up on your Wisconsin Shares Program Integrity training! | Familiarize yourself with your local Family Resource Centers. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Applications for the new Child Care Bridge Payments open July 26! | View DCF Secretary Jeff Pertl’s remarks on the Biennial Budget and the Tuesday Talks slides. | Help find new members of the Parent/Caregiver Advisory Cabinet. | Learn who to contact at DCF by reviewing the Child Care Provider Portal Contact Page | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Learn about the new Child Care Bridge Payments, a limited 12-month payment program! | Review the CCPP! It’s time to check/update your Provider Portal prices. | Spend your February 2025 Child Care Counts funds by July 19, 2025. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Join us for Tuesday Talks on July 15. | Watch for your June Child Care Counts payment on July 11. | Read about Child Care Foundational Training (CCFT) subsidies ending August 31. | Learn about tick and mosquito bite prevention. | Help parents learn about Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) Prevention training. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners.

Our state took a big step in its work to fix the system with Governor Evers announcing a tentative bipartisan budget deal that includes a more than $330 million investment in early care and education.

Review a new survey showing Wisconsinites support state investment to fix child care problems. | Reminder: the Child Care Counts Program ends June 29. | Complete your June Child Care Counts final application before June 29. | Read about Child Care Foundational Training (CCFT) subsidies ending August 31. | Listen to the June Tuesday Talks recording about Online License Continuations and Certification Renewals. | Come work with us! DCF is hiring three Licensing/Certification Specialists. | Learn about low or no cost educational opportunities from Family Resource Centers (FRCs). | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Reminder: the Child Care Counts Program ends June 29. | Review the latest Measles Reminders. | Get ready for June Child Care Counts update period – June 21-29. | Update your Provider Portal staff information. | Reminder: MECA offering extended telephone appointment hours through June 20. | Reminder: Join the DCF Challenging Behaviors listening sessions in June. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Reminder: the Child Care Counts Program ends June 29. | Learn about air quality alerts for your program’s outdoor time. | Prepare for your biennial radon retesting. | Listen to the May Tuesday Talks recording and save the June date. | Learn more about the Eau Claire Regional Office relocation. | The May Child Care Counts application period is closed. | Reminder: Join the DCF Challenging Behaviors listening sessions in June. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 
 

Read about the Child Care Counts program ending in June. | Complete your May Child Care Counts update/application by June 8. | Join the DCF Challenging Behaviors listening sessions in June. | DCF is hiring for a Northern Licensing/Certification Specialist. | Reminder: MECA offering extended telephone appointment hours through June 20. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Child Care Counts: Stabilization Payment Program Round 5 ends in June. | Beware of fake email requesting information verification. | MECA offering extended telephone appointment hours through June 20. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read the 2025 Market Rate Survey and press release from Governor Evers. | Watch for April Child Care Counts payments on May 30 in the Child Care Provider Portal. | Reminder: Encourage families to request their summer authorizations now! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Reminder: Complete your application for April Child Care Counts by Sunday, May 18. | Mark your calendar for Tuesday Talks on May 20 to learn about day camps. | Reminder: Encourage families to request their summer authorizations now! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Are you ready to submit your April Child Care Counts application/update starting this weekend - May 10-18? | Find out if your child care program is eligible for the Well Compensation Grant Program. | Reminder: DCF is hiring for two positions! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Encourage families to request their summer authorizations now! | Listen to the April Tuesday Talks recording. | Get ready for the Child Care Counts April application/update May 10-18. | Reminder: DCF is hiring for four positions! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

DCF is hiring for two positions: Child Care Modernization Lead and Bureau of Operations and Planning Director! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Learn how you can help reduce SIDS deaths. | Read about the latest NAEYC and YoungStar accreditation changes. | March Child Care Counts payment letters will be available on April 25. | Reminder: DCF is hiring a Northern Region Licensing/Certification Specialist. | Reminder: Submit your 2024-25 Child Care Immunization Assessment by April 30. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners.

Read the survey findings on the impact of Child Care Counts ending. | Join us for Tuesday Talks on Tuesday, April 15 at 1:30 p.m. | Have you changed your child care prices? Update your prices in the Provider Portal today! | Reminder: Complete your application for March Child Care Counts by April 13. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Submit your 2024-25 Child Care Immunization Assessment by April 30. | Complete your application for March Child Care Counts by April 13. | Watch the March Tuesday Talks recording. | Reminder: Read these important measles reminders. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read these important measles reminders. | Get ready – March Child Care Counts update/application period begins April 5. | Reminder: Register for the spring Child Care Foundational Training (CCFT) Train-the-Trainer sessions. | Reminder: Join DCF as a Bilingual Child Care Subsidy Specialist! | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Join our team as a Bilingual Child Care Subsidy Specialist | Review the updated Wisconsin Shares Program Integrity Training. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Western Region Licensing/Certification Specialist. | Save the date! Join us on March 18 at 1:30 p.m. for Tuesday Talks! | Complete your required CPR classes today! | February Child Care Counts application period is closed. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Watch the Tuesday Talks February recording – now available online. | Remember to ensure your Child Care Provider Portal staff information is accurate. | February Child Care Counts application period closes Sunday, March 9. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Review a summary of Governor Evers’ proposed ECE investments for the 2025-27 Biennial Budget. | Organize your records for the February Child Care Counts Update Period. | Register for the spring Child Care Foundational Training (CCFT) Train-the-Trainer sessions. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about Governor Evers’ 2025-27 Biennial Budget address and child care proposals. | Check it out – Child care regulation applications are now online. | Get ready for the February Child Care Counts Update Period. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about federal funding and Child Care Counts and Wisconsin Shares payments. | Save the date! Join us on February 18 at 1:30 for Tuesday Talks with DECE. | Access your January Child Care Counts funds on February 14. | Reminder: Try out the new Wisconsin Shares Child Care Estimator tool. | Reminder: DCF is hiring two Child Care Licensing Specialists. | Read about Supporting Families Together Association’s name change to Thriving Wisconsin. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about upcoming Child Care Counts payments. | Try out the new Wisconsin Shares Child Care Estimator tool. | Review who to contact for Child Care Foundational Training questions. | Listen to the January Tuesday Talks recording. | DCF is hiring two Child Care Licensing Specialists. | January Child Care Counts application period is closed. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

Read about federal funding for Wisconsin Shares and YoungStar Quality Adjustments. | Read or watch the 2025 State of the State Address to learn more about Gov. Evers 2025 child care budget proposals. | January Child Care Counts application period closes Sunday, February 2. | Reminder: Update your prices in the Provider Portal today! | Learn about free advice and training for small businesses from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and the Universities of Wisconsin’s Office for Business and Entrepreneurship. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners. 

It’s almost time to update your January Child Care Counts applications. | Have you changed your child care prices? Update your prices in the Provider Portal today! | Application Deadline Extended: DCF is hiring for the Southeastern Licensing/Certification Specialist | Reminder: Watch for your 1099 Form from FIS. | See the upcoming events/training opportunities with DCF Partners.

Watch for your 1099 Form from FIS. | Mark your calendar for Tuesday Talks on January 21! | Get ready to update your January Child Care Counts applications. | Come work with us! DCF is hiring for the Southeastern Licensing/Certification Specialist position. | Take action to mitigate radon during January – Radon Action Month! | Read about the new respiratory illness vaccination promotion tool kits. | Watch the recorded webinar about the updated communicable diseases chart. | Reminder: Complete the Child Care Foundational Trainer Survey by January 17. | Reminder: Plan for Voluntary Payment Agreement (VPA) processing delays. 

View the Governor’s Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC) biennial budget recommendations to Governor Evers. | Read about the reduced fee for fingerprint background checks. | Plan for Voluntary Payment Agreement (VPA) processing delays. | Complete the Child Care Foundational Trainer Survey by January 17. | Maintain or restore your facility water quality after temporary closures. | Listen to the December Tuesday Talks recording. Check your Child Care Counts for December payment letters and spending deadlines. | Attend the free Early Childhood Health Consultation (ECHC) webinar today at 1 p.m. – Quick Tips for Every Early Childhood Care Provider. See Upcoming Events and Education/Training Opportunities.
 

Complete your December Child Care Counts application by Sunday, December 22. | Read the latest YoungStar Engagement Findings Summary. | Reminder: Complete your old Child Care Foundational Training courses by December 31. | Catch up on the latest Early Childhood Health Consultation (ECHC) podcasts. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Get ready – December Child Care Counts application period starts Sunday. | Reacquaint yourself with the Wisconsin Shares Closure Policy. | Complete your old Child Care Foundational Training courses by December 31. | Catch up on the November Tuesday Talks by watching the recording. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Take the Child Care Foundational Trainer Survey to help plan spring 2025 training events. | Read about the CCC payment increase for November payments and get ready for the December Child Care Counts application period which begins December 14. | Update your Provider Portal staff information. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

November Child Care Counts application period closes Sunday, November 24. | Read the new report about early care education programs funded by DCF’s ARPA CCDBG awards. | Download the early childhood feelings thermometer tips for parents. | Final reminder to complete and return your BIF. Reminder: DCF is hiring a Western Regional Licensing Manager position in Eau Claire. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

November Child Care Counts application period starts Sunday, November 16. | Preview the November Child Care Counts survey questions. | Join us for Tuesday Talks on November 19 at 1:30 p.m. | Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Western Regional Licensing Manager position in Eau Claire. | Review the free program integrity training for providers. | Complete your older Child Care Foundational Trainings by December 31. | Reminder: Complete your Business Information Form (BIF) by Nov. 30. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Complete your Business Information Form (BIF) by Nov. 30. | October Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

October Child Care Counts application/update period closes Sunday, November 3. | Read the latest Wisconsin Shares Handbook updates. | Apply for the EC-SDC Grant Program to help eliminate PFAS and manganese contaminants. | Listen to the October Tuesday Talks recording to catch up on the latest from DECE. | Complete your older Child Care Foundational Trainings soon – deadline December 31! | Submit your ECHS health and safety practices survey by November 4. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

October Child Care Counts application/update period starts Sunday, October 26. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Get ready for the October Child Care Counts application/update period! | Sign up for the updated Child Care Foundational Trainings today! | Take the ECHC Survey to help improve early childhood care program health resources. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Reminder: Beware of fake emails. | Check out the new Who Do I Contact If… resource on the DCF website! | Join us for Tuesday Talks on October 15! | Learn more about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and how to prevent it. | September Child Care Counts application period is closed! | Complete and return your BIF to your local CCR&R agency today! | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

The Department of Children and Families (DCF) has been made aware of a fake email being sent to some child care providers requesting information verification and threatening license revocation. This is a spam/fake email. 

Reminder: Subscribe to the new Spanish Child Care Provider listserv coming October 10! | Apply for September Child Care Counts payments by October 6! | Catch up on Tuesday Talks with DECE and watch the September recording.  | Complete and return your BIF to your local CCR&R agency today! | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Read about the high number of Whooping Cough cases in Wisconsin and the DHS vaccination recommendations. | Subscribe to the new Spanish Child Care Provider listserv coming soon! | September Child Care Counts update/application period begins September 28. | Catch up on Tuesday Talks with DECE by listening to the August Tuesday Talks recording about Child Care Counts and the Child Care Supply and Demand Survey. | Reminder: Register for the October 21-24 Child Care Foundational Training Train-the-Trainer events. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Read the special message from DCF Secretary-designee Jeff Pertl. | Join us today at 1:30 p.m. for Tuesday Talks with DECE! | Explore the results of the Child Care Supply and Demand Survey. | Get ready for the September Child Care Counts update/application period. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Reminder: Register for the October 21-24 Child Care Foundational Training Train-the-Trainer events. | Reminder: August Child Care Counts update/application period is closed. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Register for the October 21-24 Child Care Foundational Training Train-the-Trainer events. | Update your Child Care Provider Portal staff information. | August Child Care Counts update/application period is closed. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

August Child Care Counts update/application period closes Sunday, September 1. Apply today! | Sign up for the free online Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Training at the Wisconsin Registry. | Read about the dangers of water beads. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Join us today for Tuesday Talks at 1:30 p.m. | Organize your records for August Child Care Counts update period August 24 – September 1. | Encourage families to request their fall Wisconsin Shares child care authorizations. | Maintain or restore your facility water quality after temporary closures. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Join the Male Teachers in Early Childhood Education Neighborhood. | Get ready for August Child Care Counts update period August 24 – September 1. | Brush up on your program integrity training by viewing the updated Wisconsin Shares video! | Reminder: Register for the Training and Technical Assistance Professional (T-TAP) course series this fall. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Read about the 2024 Market Rate Survey. | Encourage families to request their fall Wisconsin Shares child care authorizations. | Download Wisconsin Shares posters and flyers to help teach families about how they can get help paying for child care. | Register for the Training and Technical Assistance Professional (T-TAP) course series this fall. | July Child Care Counts initial application period is closed. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Complete your Round 5 July Child Care Counts initial application between now and August 4. | Check out the new Southeastern Regional Licensing Office drop-off location for Milwaukee County providers. | Complete the DHS Maternal and Child Health Needs Assessment. | Learn the difference between Abusive Head Trauma Training and Child Abuse and Neglect Training. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Complete your Round 5 July Child Care Counts initial application between now and August 4. | Register to join a Child Care Foundational Training train-the-trainer event. | Listen to the June Tuesday Talks recording about Child Care Counts and Background Check Updates. | Order or download the updated Wisconsin Childhood Communicable Diseases Chart for your center. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.
 

Join us today at 1:30 p.m. for Tuesday Talks with DECE. | Get ready – Round 5 July Child Care Counts initial application period begins July 20-August 4. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Get ready for Round 5 July Child Care Counts application period July 20-August 4. | Reminder: Ask families to take the YoungStar child care survey today! | Reminder: Come work with us! DCF is hiring for the Bureau of YoungStar Director position. | Reminder: Download the free Early Childhood Feelings Thermometer from the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Update your June Child Care Counts application this week. | Ask families to take the YoungStar child care survey today! | Review the group policy sample for child care centers. | Come work with us! DCF is hiring for the Bureau of YoungStar Director position. | Download the free Early Childhood Feelings Thermometer from the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Read about how Wisconsin Shares can help more families pay for child care. | Update your June Child Care Counts application June 29 – July 7. | Reminder: Read about the YoungStar quality adjustment percentage changes coming in July. | Join our Spanish YoungStar Analysis and Update Project listening session on June 26. | Reminder: DCF is hiring three positions: Licensing/Certification Specialists in the Western and Northeastern Regions, and a Child Care Licensing Supervisor in the Southern Region. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Tuesday Talks with DECE is today at 1:30 on Zoom. | Get ready for the June Child Care Counts Update Week – June 29 – July 7. | Reminder: Read about the YoungStar quality adjustment percentage changes coming in July. | Join our Spanish YoungStar Analysis and Update Project listening session on June 26. | DCF is hiring two Licensing/Certification Specialists in the Western and Northeastern Regions. | Reminder: Submit a workshop proposal for the 2024 Out of School Time Conference in November. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Read about the new Expression of Interest tool for individuals who are considering applying for child care regulation. | Join us at the additional listening sessions scheduled for the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | View the May Tuesday Talks with DECE recording. | May Child Care Counts application period is closed, and applications are being reviewed. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Read about the new Communications Options in the Child Care Provider Portal. | Learn about the changes to immunization requirements for children in child care centers and schools. | Review the latest Child Care Foundational Training FAQs and learn how to enroll in the updated trainings. | Update your contact list with SERO’s new mailing address. | Update your Child Care Provider Portal staff information. | May Child Care Counts application period is closed, and applications are being reviewed. |Join us at the additional listening sessions scheduled for the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

We want to hear from you! Join us at an upcoming YoungStar listening session in June!

Read about Gov. Evers’ request for $15M to support Wisconsin child care providers. | Apply for May Child Care Counts – now through June 2. | Brush up on your program integrity training by viewing the updated Wisconsin Shares video! | Reminder: Participate in the June YoungStar Analysis and Update Project listening sessions. | Reminder: Submit your Child Care Immunization Assessment by May 31. | Submit a workshop proposal for the 2024 Out of School Time Conference in November. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Join us today for Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. | Read about the YoungStar quality adjustment percentage changes coming in July. | Get ready – May Child Care Counts Update Period is May 25-June 2. | Reminder: Participate in the May/June listening sessions for the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | Submit your Child Care Immunization Assessment by May 31. | Update your address books with SERO’s new mailing address. | Read the PCEAC Annual Report. | Reminder: Encourage families to request their summer child care authorizations. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.
 

Reminder: Participate in the May/June listening sessions for the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | Reminder: Provide feedback for the DCF Child Care Development Fund FFY 2025-27 public hearing today, May 14. | Updated Child Care Foundational Trainings (CCFT) available in June! | Read the April Tuesday Talks recording correction about annual background check charges. | DCF is hiring a 60% Licensing/Certification Specialist position in Milwaukee. | Reminder: Encourage families to request their summer child care authorizations. | Reminder: April Child Care Counts Update Period is closed. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.
 

Encourage families to request their summer child care authorizations. | April Child Care Counts Update Period is closed. | Reminder: Participate in the May/June listening sessions for the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | View the April Tuesday Talks with DECE recording. | Provide feedback for the DCF Child Care Development Fund FFY 2025-27 public hearing on May 14. | Check out the new SFTA Consistency is Key program webpage. | Save the date for the WECA conference Oct. 10-12, 2024. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

April Child Care Counts Update period closes May 5. | Reminder: Participate in the May listening sessions for the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | See the upcoming events and education/training opportunities with DCF partners.

Get ready for the April Child Care Counts Update period. | Provide feedback for the DCF Child Care Development Fund FFY 2025-27 public hearing on May 14. | Read/download the updated licensing rule books with commentary. | DCF is hiring! Check out the IS Business Automation Consultant/Administrator position at DECE. | Reminder: Participate in the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. Reminder: Sign up for TTAP training opportunities through Supporting Families Together (SFTA). | Learn ways to deal with stress when caring for children at the May 2 ECHC free webinar. | Reminder: Learn about Behavioral Health at the free April 24 Wisconsin Afterschool Network virtual meeting. | Register for the Parents Place free virtual webinar on Empathetic Listening on May 1. 

Join us today, April 16 at 1:30 p.m. for Tuesday Talks with DECE for a free, statewide training for licensed day camp providers! | Get ready for the April Child Care Counts Update period. | Reminder: Participate in the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | DCF is recruiting to fill a Bilingual Licensing/Certification Specialist position. | Sign up at the Wisconsin Registry for YoungStar Connect live training opportunities April – July. | Register for the Wisconsin Family Child Care Association Conference May 2-4. | Learn about Behavioral Health at the free April 24 Wisconsin Afterschool Network virtual meeting. 

Read Governor Evers’ proclamation for the Week of the Young Child. | Participate in the YoungStar Analysis and Update Project. | The March Child Care Counts update period is closed. | Join the April 16 Tuesday Talks with DECE for a free, statewide training for licensed day camp providers! | Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Southern Regional Manager and a Bilingual Licensing/Certification Specialist. | Download the free Summer Camp Guide Book from Wisconsin Afterschool Network. | Register for the Wisconsin Early Education Shared Services Network (WEESSN), Conscious Discipline® trainings across Wisconsin this spring. | Register for the free virtual Spring 2024 Wisconsin 4K Leadership Forum on April 23.

Read about Governor Evers’ veto of Assembly Bill 388. | Five-Year Fingerprint Renewals due soon. Check your Provider Portal for quarterly notices. | Fill out your 2023-24 Child Care Immunization Assessment survey by May 31, 2024. | The March Child Care Counts update period is closed. | Watch the recording of the March Tuesday Talks with DECE. | Sign up for AHT and TTAP training opportunities through Supporting Families Together (SFTA). | Learn about child care community webinars and entrepreneurial trainings from First Children’s Finance.

Sunday, March 31 is the deadline for completed March Child Care Counts applications/updates. | Read the updated MyWIChildCare Provider FAQs regarding contacting FIS. | Register for the free April 4 Early Childhood Health Consultation webinar Catching Up on Check-ups. | Sign up for the free virtual Parents Place class on Managing Kids’ Anger. | Reminder: Register for the free workshop on Preventing Child Sexual Abuse through Awareness to Action’s website. 

Join us today at 1:30 p.m. for Tuesday Talks with DECE and learn more about the Child Care Foundational Training. | Read about the exciting changes to the Child Care Foundational Trainings. | Complete your March CCC application/update now through March 31. | Sign up for the free March 26 First Childrens Finance webinar on Separating Your Family Child Care Finances from Your Personal Finances. | Register for the upcoming WEESSN Conscious Discipline Trainings. 

Gov. Evers signs bipartisan bill to reduce annual child care costs for working families. | The February recording of Tuesday Talks with DECE is now available. | March CCC Application/Update Period begins Sunday, March 16. | Register for the Play is the Way Community Conference in Waupaca. 

Update your Child Care Provider Portal staff information. | Get ready – March CCC Application/Update Period begins March 16. | Register for the free ECHC webinar: Supporting Children who have Experienced Trauma. | Sign up for the SFTA Train-the-Trainer Events for T-TAP and AHT. 

February CCC Application Period is closed. Applications are being reviewed. | Sign up for the SFTA Train-the-Trainer Events for T-TAP and AHT. | Register for the Learning Through Play webinar hosted by the Parents Place. | Register for the free workshop on Preventing Child Sexual Abuse through Awareness to Action’s website. | Register for the March 9 Early Childhood Educator Conference: The Power of Connections. 

Join us for Tuesday Talks TODAY at 1:30 p.m. | Complete your February Application for Round 4 of Child Care Counts by February 25 at 11:59 p.m. | Read about the YoungStar Quality Adjustment percentage increases. | Learn about the new Enhanced Referral Services through your local CCR&R. | Reminder: Register for the March 5-7 PEC conference in Fond du Lac, WI. 

Apply now for Round 4 of Child Care Counts. Wisconsin Afterschool Network offers a small group learning cohort for day camp settings – Track 4 Directors YoungStar 101 Learning Cohort. Register for a Free Virtual Class – Being Bullied.

Get ready for Round 4 starting in February. Check out the new New Wisconsin Regulated Child Care Provider Dashboard on the DCF website! Don't forget about the CCFT Train-the-Trainer Informational Webinars in February. The January Tuesday Talks recording is now available online. The Promoting Early Childhood Conference registration is now open.
 

Read about the importance of the child care industry and Child Care Counts in last week’s State of the State Address from Governor Evers. January Child Care Counts application period is closed. Get ready for Round 4 starting in February. Check out the new Child Care Provider Resource Guide on the DCF website! Read about the UBBCARE Play Yard Mattress recall.  Register for the free virtual Parents Place class about Regulation Strategies for all ages. 
 

Complete your January Child Care Counts application this week! Sign up for the February CCFT train-the-trainer informational webinars hosted by DCF and The Wisconsin Registry. Learn about DHS recommendations for blood lead tests for Wisconsin children. Share your ideas about infant and early childhood mental health at an upcoming Healthy Minds Healthy Children webinar in February. Explore the many child care supports offered by WEESSN and WECA. Register for the free Parent Place virtual class: Handling Emotions on January 30. 

Join us for Tuesday Talks – Today at 1:30 p.m. Learn about Child Care Counts Rounds 4 and 5 payment levels. Read about the pre-licensing technical assistance transition. Did you know that January is Radon Action Month? Test your home for radon.  Apply for the Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant (EC-SDC) for people with PFAS contamination in their water supply. 

Prepare for winter storms with information from ReadyWisconsin. Get ready for January Child Care Counts application/update period. Read about the changes to the Wisconsin Registry Profile Requirements. Sign up by January 10 for the latest Wisconsin Afterschool Network’s courses.

Maintain or restore your facility water quality after temporary closures. Reminder: December Child Care Counts application period is closed. Reminder: Read about the upcoming Child Care Counts Round 4 in early 2024. Reminder: Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Child Care Subsidy Lead in Milwaukee. Register for the Winter and Health ECHC webinar on January 4.

Join us for Tuesday Talks, today at 1:30 p.m. December Child Care Counts application period is closed. Reminder: Read about the upcoming Child Care Counts Round 4 in early 2024. Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Child Care Subsidy Lead in Milwaukee. Register for the rescheduled ECHC air quality webinar on December 21. Reminder: Learn about the elevated lead levels and Salmonella outbreaks.

December Child Care Counts application issues fixed. Complete your application this week! | Read about the upcoming Child Care Counts Round 4 in early 2024. | View the new Spanish webpage for Accessing the Child Care Provider Portal. | Encourage families to use the Child Care Parent Portal. | Reminder: Report any fees you charge in your Provider Portal or to your local agency. | Learn about the elevated lead levels and Salmonella outbreaks.

Report any fees you charge in your Provider Portal or to your local agency.  Get ready for the December Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Read the updated Licensing Rules with Commentary rule books. Update your Child Care Provider Portal staff information. View the November Tuesday Talks recording. Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Child Care Subsidy Specialist at MECA. Register for the ECHC Air Quality webinar on December 7. Register for the Parents Place Ages & Stages webinar on December 14.

See the new resources for Fall 2023 Wisconsin Shares Subsidy Changes and Registration Fees. Explore upcoming train-the-trainer Child Care Foundational Training events in 2024. Get ready for the December Child Care Counts Application/Update Week.

Tuesday Talks with DECE is at 1:30 p.m. today! YoungStar Quality Adjustments start again in January. View the free Wisconsin Shares Program Integrity Training.  November Child Care Counts application period is closed. DCF is hiring a Senior Auditor in the Bureau of Child Care Subsidy Administration. Watch the Lead 101 ECHC webinar recording to learn about lead implications in child care facilities. 

Finalize your Child Care Counts November applications this week! Reminder: Familiarize yourself with the changes to COVID-19 Reporting Requirements. Mark your calendar – Foundational Correspondence Trainings are ending July 31, 2024.  Find out more about the upcoming changes to the Registry Profile Requirements. Come work with us! The Bureau of Early Care and Education is hiring a Section Manager position in the western region. 

As a result of the additional $170 million in relief funding from Governor Tony Evers,  DCF has reopened initial applications for providers who are not currently enrolled in the Child Care Counts Payment Program. 

Get ready for Child Care Counts November Update Week – Nov. 11-19. Read the recently published Wisconsin Shares Provider Closure Policy. Familiarize yourself with the changes to COVID-19 Reporting Requirements. The October Tuesday Talks with DECE is now available. Explore the new Wisconsin Wayfinder: Children’s Resource Network from DHS. Get your Wisconsin Registry general membership for free! Learn about new ways to become eligible for the WECA REWARD Wisconsin Stipend Program. 

Happy Halloween! Review the Halloween safety tips from DHS. Reminder: October Child Care Counts update period is closed. The next update period is November 11-19.  Come work with us! DCF is hiring for an Operations Section Manager position in BECR.

October Child Care Counts update period is closed. Reminder: Read about how Gov. Evers directs $170 million in emergency funding to stabilize child care statewide. Learn about the implications of lead in child care facilities. Celebrate school-age programs with Lights on Afterschool on October 26. Learn about the mentor and consultant position openings at Wisconsin Alliance for Infant Mental Health. 

Read about how Gov. Evers directs $170 million in emergency funding to stabilize child care statewide.  Read about the Senate Committee Hearing on Child Care Bills on October 18. Join us today for Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. Update your October Child Care Counts applications now! Update period is open until Sunday, October 22. Mark your calendar – Foundational Correspondence Trainings are ending July 31, 2024. Read about Child Care Foundational Training train-the-trainer events coming up in spring 2024.

Read the updated additional one-time payment information for Child Care Counts. The September Child Care Counts update period is closed. Submit your questions for the October Tuesday Talks about Wisconsin Shares. Listen to the September Tuesday Talks with DECE recording. Reminder: Wisconsin Shares policy changed on October 1. View the parent/provider flyers available for download. Reminder: Read about the new Voluntary Repayment Agreement (VPA) form. Reminder: Consider being part of the new Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMHC) Consultation model in Wisconsin. Reminder: Celebrate school-age programs with Lights On Afterschool on October 26.

DCF has identified approximately $670,000 in available unused funding from the Child Care Counts (CCC) Stabilization Payment Program. In order to maximize CCC funding to providers, DCF is making a one-time payment tonight to currently eligible providers who received funding (or had funding reserved) for the August payment round.

Reminder: Read about the Wisconsin Shares policy changes coming October 1. Reminder: Register for an upcoming Wisconsin Shares Policy Change Information Session.  The September Child Care Counts update period closes October 1. Read about the new Voluntary Repayment Agreement (VPA) form.  Register for the October 5 free ECHC webinar on infant mental health. Consider being part of the new Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMHC) Consultation model in Wisconsin. Check out the parent and caregiver training resources from UW Extension.  Register for the Introduction to the School-Age Profession course, sponsored by the Wisconsin Afterschool Network.

Last month, Governor Evers called the State Legislature into a special session to address the state’s chronic workforce challenges, including access to quality, affordable child care. Yesterday, the Legislature convened and opened the special session. While no action was taken, the session remains open – meaning the chance to ensure Wisconsin’s early care and education industry remains stable is still on the table.

Join us for Tuesday Talks with DECE today at 1:30 p.m. The next Child Care Counts update period begins September 23 – October 1. Check out the new Resources for Families and Communities on the DCF website! Reminder: Register for an upcoming Wisconsin Shares Policy Change Information Session. Celebrate school-age programs with Lights On Afterschool on October 26. DCF is hiring! See what positions are available at DCF. 

Register for an upcoming Wisconsin Shares Policy Change Information Session. The next Child Care Counts update period is September 23 – October 1. Register for upcoming YoungStar Connect training opportunities this fall. 

Update your Written Payment Agreements with to include all fees charged to parents utilizing Wisconsin Shares. The next Child Care Counts update period is September 23 – October 1. Review the steps for maintaining water quality in centers following a closure. Register for the September 14 ECHC webinar. Register for the October 10 Wisconsin Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Virtual Conference. Check out the new school-age resources on the Wisconsin Afterschool Network website. 

Read about the ECHC expansion starting in September.  Register for in-person CACFP trainings in September.  Listen to the August recording of Tuesday Talks. Come work with us! Apply for Child Care Subsidy Specialist positions for the MECA office. Sign up for the WEESSN EAP Series starting in September.  Reminder: Submit your radon test results by September 1.  Reminder: Complete and return your Business Information Form (BIF) today!

August is your final opportunity to apply for Child Care Counts if you wish to continue to participate in the remainder of Round 3. August Update/Application Week closes Sunday, August 20. Attend the MECA August 22 information session about upcoming Wisconsin Shares policy changes. See the new Spanish version of the Wisconsin Early Childhood Inclusion Tool Kit. Check out the new school-age resources on the Wisconsin Afterschool Network website! Sign up for the new, PBS KIDS self-paced learning courses for providers. 

Gov. Evers calls legislature into special session to address state’s chronic workforce and child care challenges. Learn about YoungStar Quality Adjustments returning in 2024. Child Care Counts August Update/Application Week starts Saturday, August 12. Reminder: Complete and return your Business Information Form (BIF) today! Reminder: DECE is hiring an office manager position in Rhinelander.

Ensure your Child Care Provider Portal information is accurate and up to date! Check out the new Spanish resources on My YoungStar Connect. Listen to the July Tuesday Talks with DECE recording. Child Care Counts July applications are closed. Come work with us! DECE is hiring an office manager position in Rhinelander.

Read the Registration Fee Clarification information. Child Care Counts July applications are due July 30. Submit your radon test results by September 1. Read about air quality considerations for child care programs. Complete and return your Business Information Form (BIF) today! Register for the August 10 ECHC webinar. Come work with us! DECE is hiring a program supervisor position. Reminder: Take the Wisconsin Community Survey for Healthy Minds, Healthy Children.

Join Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. today! Child Care Counts July Application starts July 22. Take the Wisconsin Community Survey for Healthy Minds, Healthy Children. Reminder: Add your provider registration fees to the Provider Portal.  Reminder: Child Care Licensing Rule Books are available for sale. 

The Child Care Provider Portal is now available in Spanish! Add your provider registration fees to the Provider Portal. Mark your calendar for the July 18 Tuesday Talks with DECE. Child Care Licensing Rule Books are available for sale.  Child Care Counts June payments will be available by July 14. Come work with us! DCF is hiring multiple positions.

View the DCF press release about the Dream Up! Cohort 3 Awardees. Learn how to connect to YoungStar Connect! Read about the ECHC expansion happening in July. Reminder: Child Care Counts June application period is closed. Come work with us! DCF is hiring multiple positions.

Yesterday the Governor’s Office announced that they submitted a formal request to the Joint Committee on Finance to use remaining federal child care COVID relief funds to continue the Child Care Counts Program into State Fiscal Year 2024 (which runs from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024). We understand that there are a number of questions regarding this announcement and would like to offer some clarity.

Child Care Counts June application period is closed. View the Partner Up! Program Evaluation. Register for the July 6 ECHC webinar. Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions. 

Read the latest Child Care Counts updates. Check out the new YoungStar Connect Help Desk – now live! Send in your Child Care Immunization Assessment today! Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions. 

Get ready for the June Child Care Counts Application/Update Week: June 17-25. Read about the upcoming Wisconsin Shares policy changes. Learn more about the air quality alerts due to wildfire smoke. Read about the breastfeeding-friendly child care resources available from the Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Wisconsin Breastfeeding Coalition. Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions.

The May Child Care Counts late applications are being accepted until June 9. Read about the change to the Voluntary Payment Agreement (VPA) submission process. Stay in compliance by updating staff Wisconsin Registry profiles.  Access your new Child Care Foundational Training postcard certificates. Reminder: Complete your Child Care Immunization Assessments by June 16. Reminder: DECE is hiring multiple positions. 

The May Child Care Counts applications are due Sunday, June 4. Complete your Child Care Immunization Assessments by June 16. Review the May Tuesday Talks recording if you missed the live session. Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions. 

Apply now through June 4, for Round 3 of Child Care Counts. Register for the May 25 YoungStar Transition Listening Session. Check out the new YoungStar Connect and meet your team of YoungStar coaches! Complete your Child Care Immunization Assessments by June 16. 

Get ready for Round 3 of Child Care Counts Application Week: May 20 – June 4. Remind providers that summer program and day camp staff need background checks before they may begin working. Register for the May 25 YoungStar Transition Listening Session. Register for the June 8 ECHC Health Policy Template workshop.

Remember that summer program and day camp staff need background checks before they may begin working. The April Child Care Counts update/application period is closed. DCF is hiring several positions: Contracts Specialist-Advanced and Policy Advisor, and a Licensing/Certification Specialist. 

The April Child Care Counts update/application period is this week, April 24-28. Check your spending deadlines! Register for the upcoming virtual YoungStar Transition Update sessions on April 27 and May 2. View last week’s Tuesday Talks recording. View and download the new Wisconsin Shares infographics highlighting the eligibility and application process. DCF is hiring several positions: Training Officer Senior, Contracts Specialist-Advanced and Policy Advisor. Register for the May 4 ECHC webinar: Considerations when Caring for Children with Special Health Care Needs.

This is a special edition message with important information on Child Care Counts: Stabilization Payment Program Round 3.

The April Child Care Counts application period begins next week, April 24-28. Check your spending deadlines. Explore the resources available to help businesses and providers apply for Partner Up! funding. Review the steps for maintaining water quality in centers following a closure. Encourage providers to watch the free online program integrity training on the DCF website. 

UW-Madison Releases Child Care Counts Study Results. View the English or Spanish training for adding a business website to the Child Care Finder. Partner Up! cohort 3 applications open tomorrow! Save the date – April 18 Tuesday Talks with DECE – Child Care Counts Round 3. The April Child Care Counts application period begins April 24-28. Check your spending deadlines.  Reminder: You can still sign up for free early care education career counseling at WECA!

Read about Week of the Young Child! A YoungStar Listening Session is taking place this week in Rhinelander. Download revised versions of commentary manuals for licensed family child care, group child care, and day camps from the DCF website. Updated: Review information about the MyWIChildCare EBT card and how providers can accept Wisconsin Shares. Providers must regularly update your Provider Portal information. The March Child Care Counts application period is closed. Check your Child Care Counts spending deadlines. Watch the March Tuesday Talks with DECE recording, now available on the DCF website. Sign up for free early care education career counseling at WECA! Register for the Whole Child, Whole Family, Whole Community Wisconsin Afterschool Network virtual series. 

Check it out: Providers can now add their business website to the Child Care Finder via the Child Care Provider Portal.  YoungStar Connect offices are opening April 3!  Reminder: YoungStar Listening Sessions are taking place this week in Milwaukee. Read about the Wisconsin Shares media campaign happening across the state and view the media tool kit.  Review information about the MyWIChildCare EBT card and how providers can accept Wisconsin Shares.  The March Child Care Counts application period is closed. Reminder: DHS Radon Training is available for providers. Sign up for the April 5 virtual webinar: Helping Children Navigate Anxious Feelings.

Today is Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. Learn about the Child Care Licensing Rule Revisions and Regulation 101.  Register for the virtual DHS radon training this week for licensed family and group child care providers. This week is the March Child Care Counts Application/Update Week – March 20-24. Remember to apply for Program C – this month only.  Mark your calendar with the new dates and corrected registration links for upcoming YoungStar Listening Sessions in Milwaukee.  Learn more about the new WEESSN Educator Assistance Program.  Listen to the upcoming ECHC April 6 podcast about caring for children with asthma. 

JCRAR votes to suspend changes to Wisconsin Administrative Code regarding new immunization requirements for chickenpox. | Get ready for the next Child Care Counts Application/Update Week – March 20-24. | Don't miss out - Dream Up! applications are due by March 17! | Mark your calendar with the new dates for upcoming YoungStar Listening Sessions in Milwaukee. | Save the date for the March 21 Tuesday Talks with DECE and learn about the Child Care Licensing Rule Revisions. | Watch for printed Child Care Licensing Rule Books to be available for purchase soon. | Learn how the Early Childhood Health Consultation (ECHC) Program supports Wisconsin’s early care and education providers and programs.

The late February Child Care Counts applications are due March 10. The next application/update week is March 20-24. Save the date for the upcoming YoungStar Listening Session on March 9 in Eau Claire. Catch up on February Tuesday Talks with DECE by listening to the February recording. Take a look at the resources available to help draft Dream Up! applications. Listen to the new ECE podcast, on March 8, about health and child care. Learn about developmentally appropriate activities to help build skills for real life scenarios at the Parents Place virtual webinar on March 20. 

February Child Care Counts late applications are being accepted due to power outages and other issues.

The February Child Care Counts application period is closed. The next application/update week is March 20-24. Read about the revised child care licensing rules that go into effect on March 1. Starting in March, licensed family and group child care programs will be required to regularly test for radon in their centers. Save the date for the upcoming YoungStar Listening Session on March 2 in Appleton. Register for the Wisconsin Afterschool Network Virtual Summer Staff series. Register for the PEC 2023 virtual conference. Registration closes March 3. Providers can sign up for free WEESSN coaching to learn up to recoup federal tax credits. Reminder: Read the Wisconsin Shares policy reminder about Employee Discounts. Come work with us! DCF is hiring multiple positions. 

Join us today for Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. This week is February Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Read about Child Care Counts Stabilization Payment Program Round 3, Payment Program C – Promoting Inclusive Spaces, and the enhanced Support Center.  Join us at upcoming YoungStar Listening Session on February 23 in Madison. Apply for the latest round of Dream Up! grant. Application period now open! Read the Wisconsin Shares policy reminder about Employee Discounts. Join the ECHC March 2 virtual webinar about Straight Talk About Vaccines. Come work with us! DCF is hiring multiple positions. Reminder: Register for the Managing Adult Anger virtual classes offered by The Parents Place. 

Due to inclement weather, tonight’s Milwaukee Listening Session will be postponed. Your feedback on YoungStar is critically important, and the Shine Early Learning team is working to finalize a new tentative date of April 30 for the Milwaukee Listening Session, which will remain at the same venue.

Join us at upcoming YoungStar Listening Sessions throughout the state. Child Care Counts February application period starts next week: February 20-24. Mark your calendar for the February 21 Tuesday Talks with DECE. Read about the revised child care licensing rules that go into effect on March 1. Join us for a webinar on February 20 to learn more about the upcoming Dream Up! Cohort 3 application period. Register for the Managing Adult Anger virtual classes offered by The Parents Place. Save the date – March 4 is the 2023 Spring Early Childhood Conference in Rhinelander. Learn how to recruit and retain day camp staff with a foundation of wellness by attending the Wisconsin Afterschool Network series in March. CCR&Rs are available to help providers and parents who have children with challenging behaviors. DCF is hiring multiple positions in the Division of Early Care and Education.

Watch for your 1099 forms! FIS is sending 1099 forms to child care providers who receive Wisconsin Shares and Child Care Counts funding. Read the DHS updates for immunization reporting for child care centers. Child Care Counts February application period is February 20-24. Register to attend the February 15 Child Care Symposium in Wisconsin Dells. It’s chili season! Register for the Wisconsin Chili Lunch on February 23. Providers can sign up for the 2023 WFCCA Conference May 4-6. Come work with us! DCF is hiring a Licensing/Certification Specialist in the Northern Region. 

Priya Bhatia named new Division of Early Care and Education (DECE) Administrator. Checked your eligibility status in CCPP lately? Remember - FBI fingerprints are due every five years. Read the reminders on reporting COVID-19 requirements. PBS KIDS continues to offer free, online learning courses through the Registry. Has your center been closed recently? Review the steps for maintaining water quality in centers following a closure. Reminder: January Child Care Counts application period is closed. Reminder: Register for the February 2 ECHC webinar to learn how to decide when children need immediate health care attention.

Child Care Counts Application Week is closed. Check out the new Wisconsin Early Childhood Inclusion Tool Kit which provides information and resources for ECE providers. There's a free webinar and training opportunity on January 26 for family child care providers regarding child illnesses. The free Early Childhood Health Consultation program expands into new services areas.

Join us TODAY for Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. to learn about Child Care Counts Program C – Promoting Inclusive Spaces. This week is the January CCC Update/Application Week – January 16-23. Starting in March, licensed family and group child care programs will be required to regularly test for radon in their centers. Register for the February 2 ECHC webinar to learn how to decide when children need immediate health care attention. DCF is hiring a Licensing/Certification Specialist in the southeastern region. Today is the deadline to apply. 

Update your Provider Portal information regularly to stay in compliance! Preview the Dream Up! Cohort 3 application questions. Reminder: Effective January 17, the DECE listserv messaging is changing to once a week. Reminder: All December Child Care Counts applications are closed and are being reviewed. Reminder: Register for the Wisconsin Afterschool Network's virtual series about Cultivating Staff with a Healthy Organizational Culture on January 18. 

All December Child Care Counts applications are closed and are being reviewed. Join us on January 17 for Tuesday Talks with DECE when we’ll discuss Child Care Counts Program C – Promoting Inclusive Spaces. The Wisconsin Afterschool Network (WAN) is hosting a virtual series about Cultivating Staff with a Healthy Organizational Culture on January 18. Reminder: Join DECE at the January 12 evening webinar to hear the latest about the YoungStar services transition. Reminder: Register for the Behavioral Health Series: Naming and Taming Emotions webinar on January 27.

Late December Child Care Counts applications are due today – January 6. Join DECE at the January 12 evening webinar to hear the latest about the YoungStar services transition. Child care providers are encouraged to watch the free online program integrity training on the DCF website. School-age professional development course available for Youth Work Professionals February 3-24. 

The deadline for December Child Care Counts has been extended until January 6. On-demand school-age professional development training is available through UW-Milwaukee for providers and those interested in becoming school-age group leaders (teachers).