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!

Attend an upcoming Wisconsin Shares Full-time/Part-time Information Session. | Check out the new Wisconsin Shares Resources for providers – Accepting to Maintaining Wisconsin Shares Eligibility Overview. | Available now: Wisconsin Shares Program Integrity Training for Providers. | The Child Care Counts August application period is closed. | Register for the WI-AIMH Virtual Conference in October.

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.

Partner Up! applications are due at 5 p.m. on May 12. Save the date – the next Tuesday Talks with DECE is May 16 at 1:30 p.m. Last chance to complete Free Foundational Child Care training courses. Free courses must be completed by May 31. The April Child Care Counts update/application period is closed. Get ready for Round 3 later this month.

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).

Tomorrow - December 23 - is the deadline for December Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Reminder: Review the Child Care Provider Vacation Closure information for holiday closure guidance.

Update your child and staff CCC records this week - Dec. 19-23 for Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Review the Child Care Provider Vacation Closure information for holiday closure guidance. Free Child Care Foundational Training is still available! Learn more. Parent Place is hosting a free Setting Up Routines webinar on January 11. Register for the Behavioral Health Series: Naming and Taming Emotions webinar on January 27.

Read about and share the CACFP ByHeart infant formula recall information with staff and parents. Join WEESSN before the end of the year to be eligible for free gifts and new 2023 services. Are you ready? December Child Care Counts Update/Application Week begins Monday, December 19-23. 

Get Ready - December Child Care Counts Update/Application Week begins next week – December 19-23. Mark your calendars for the December 20 Tuesday Talks with DECE! Hear more about the YoungStar transition during Tuesday Talks. Will you be the next Dream Up! grant winner? Cohort 3 Dream Up! applications are opening soon. 

Register for the Improving Staff Health and Wellness webinar on December 15. Read more about the YoungStar Transition Updates. Learn more about WEESSN’s new Educator Assistance Program. Reminder: November Child Care Counts applications are being reviewed. 

Providers must report if a child receiving Wisconsin Shares has not attended in the past 30 days. November Child Care Counts applications are being reviewed. Reminder: MECA services are now virtual. 

The November Child Care Counts application period is closed and applications are being reviewed. 

November Child Care Counts applications close today. The Parents Place is offering a Parenting Through the Holidays webinar on December 8. Reminder: DCF is hiring. 

This week is November Child Care Counts Update/Application Week, and it runs November 21-29. Review, update, and submit your child and staff lists! Learn more about the YoungStar transition and staffing change. Do you know potential child care providers? Tell them about the Free Foundational Child Care Training! The Parents Place is offering several webinars for parents and providers in December. Reminder: Register for the December 1 Early Childhood Health Consultation (ECHC) webinar. Reminder: DECE is hiring. Come and work with a great team!

Read the DCF Division of Early Care Education Administrator announcement. Learn about the increased spread of respiratory viruses in Wisconsin children and adults. Get ready - November Child Care Counts Update/Application Week starts next week. Register for the upcoming Parent Place webinars for parents. Come work with us! DCF is hiring several positions. 

Join us today at 1:30 p.m. for Tuesday Talks with DECE. Read the latest Child Care Counts updates and reminders. Learn more about Early Childhood Health Consultation (ECHC) and register for the December 1 webinar. Sign up for Free Child Care Foundational Training. Check out WEESSN’s new Tax Guides for Child Care Businesses. Reminder: Sign up for the free, online self-paced learning courses from PBS KIDS. Reminder: DCF/BECR is hiring a Licensing/Certification Specialist in Rhinelander, and an Office Manager in Waukesha. 

Learn more about Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and how to limit the spread. The November Child Care Counts update/application week is November 21-29. Come work with us - DCF is hiring! The Bureau of Early Care Regulation is hiring a Child Care Licensing Section Manager in their northern region, a Licensing/Certification Specialist in Rhinelander, and an Office Manager in Waukesha. 

November 15 is the next Tuesday Talks with DECE. Our topic is Wisconsin Early Education Services Network (WEESSN) and Free Child Care Foundational Training. The October Child Care Counts payments will be available November 18. Come work with us! The Division of Early Care and Education/Bureau of Early Care Regulation is hiring a 60 percent Licensing/Certification Specialist position in their southeastern region and a Child Care Licensing Section Manager in their northern region. 

The October Child Care Counts applications are being reviewed. The Bureau of Early Care Regulation is hiring a 60 percent Licensing/Certification Specialist position in their southeastern region. 

The October Child Care Counts application period is closed. Applications are being reviewed. WEESSN is offering a tax credit webinar for providers. PBS Wisconsin Education is offering free PBS KIDS self-paced learning courses that earn Registry credit. Come work with us! DCF is hiring a 60 percent Licensing/Certification Specialist position in their southeastern region. 

The deadline to update/apply for October Child Care Counts is tomorrow at 11:59 p.m. The October Tuesday Talks with DECE recording is available. Register for the Special Education Information Session with DPI on November 1. There’s still time to register for the November 3 ECHC webinar about thoughtful approaches to exclusion. Read the latest PDG news in this week’s newsletter.  This week is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. Read about preventing childhood lead exposure. 

Update your Child Care Counts records this week – October 24-28 – for Update/Application Week.  Are you familiar with the latest Safe Infant Sleep Practices? View the webinar recording to learn about the 2022 changes in safe sleep guidelines. Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions.

Get ready for October Child Care Counts Update/Application Week October 24-28. DHS announces everyone ages 5 and older is eligible for updated COVID-19 boosters. Come work with us! DCF is hiring multiple positions.

Join us today for Tuesday Talks with DECE and learn more about the YoungStar transition. Read more about the YoungStar transition and Frequently Asked Questions. WEESSN is hosting an Employee Retention Tax Credit Webinar in Spanish and English. The September Child Care Counts payments will be available by October 21. See the corrected phone numbers in the MECA Services are Now All Virtual announcement. DECE is hiring multiple positions. Reminder: Register for Pathways to Quality Conference October 24-29. Reminder: T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Wisconsin spring application deadline is November 1. 

Read about how Milwaukee Early Care Administration (MECA) services have transitioned to fully virtual! Does your program use bottled water due to well contamination? Apply for ARPA Well Compensation and Well Abandonment Grant Programs. The September Child Care Counts applications are being reviewed. 

Save the date! October 18 Tuesday Talks with DECE topic is the YoungStar Transition. T.E.A.C.H. spring application deadline is November 1. Take advantage of the Free Child Care Foundational Training and sign up today! Register for the Wisconsin Out of School Time Conference on November 1-2.  Update your background check information in the Provider Portal. The September Child Care Counts application period is closed and applications are being reviewed. Reminder: Pathways to Quality Conference is October 24-29. Reminder: DECE is hiring a Background Analyst. 

Register for the upcoming Early Childhood Health Consultation webinar on Thoughtful Approaches to Exclusion. Learn about the Shared Services Network of free resources and benefits for providers being offered by WEESSN. Child care providers are encouraged to view the free online program integrity training on the DCF website. The September Child Care Counts application period is closed and applications are being reviewed. 

The deadline for updating your September Child Care Counts application is tomorrow – Wednesday, October 5 at 11:59 p.m. Did you miss the September Tuesday Talks with DECE? The recording is now available! Read about the professional development opportunities are available for providers this fall. Learn about the Wisconsin Lead-in-Water Testing and Remediation Initiative. Come work with us! DECE is hiring a Background Analyst. 

Providers update your September CCC records now! October 5 is the deadline for updating records. Birth to 3 Child Care Pilot expanding statewide in October. The Parent Place is offering an online series on Adult Anger. The Wisconsin Afterschool Network, in partnership with DCF, is offering free Foundational School-Age Child Care Trainings.

This week - September 26 – October 5 – is the beginning of the September CCC update/application week. Update your records now! A Child Tax Credit is available for families. The deadline to apply is November 15, 2022. Read about the Project Growth Partner Up! Cohort 2 Grant Awardees. Early Childhood Health Consultation is presenting a webinar on Thoughtful Approaches to Exclusion: Should this Child Remain in Care? Child care providers that they are required to have a written payment agreement with all families. 

Get ready for September CCC update/application week, next week: September 26 – October 5.

Join today’s Tuesday Talks with DECE to learn about supporting children with special needs. The September CCC application/update week has been extended. The application will be open next week, September 26 – October 5. WEESSN is offering free access to LegUp Enrollment Management software to child care providers. Join our team at DCF! DECE, Bureau of Operations and Planning, is hiring an IT and QA Section Manager.
 

August CCC payments available tomorrow, September 16. Child care providers are encouraged to join the Tuesday Talks with DECE to learn about opportunities to support children and families participating in Birth to 3. 
 

Missed our August Tuesday Talks? Listen to the August Tuesday Talks recording on our website! See the updated Birth to 3 Program training information. Sign up for training today! Listen to the WPR interview with Erin Arango-Escalante about early childhood issues. August CCC applications are being reviewed. Providers will be notified of their eligibility for funds by September 16, 2022, via a payment letter uploaded to the Child Care Provider Portal.

See the new COVID-19 Guidance and Reviewing Reporting Requirements from Licensing. Child care providers are reminded to select “Submit Request” before leaving the page when changing prices in the Child Care Provider Portal. The August application period for Round 2 of CCC is closed and applications are being reviewed. 

The August CCC application period 11:59 p.m. tonight! Join us on September 20 for Tuesday Talks. Topic is Children with special needs. Providers are required to report if a child receiving Wisconsin Shares has not attended in the past 30 days. Reminder: DCF is hiring. 

The August Child Care Counts application period has been extended until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, September 6.

The August application period for Round 2 of CCC closes tomorrow! Registration for the WECA Conference is now open. Come work with us! DCF is hiring. 

Complete your August Round 2 CCC application today! The August application period for Round 2 of CCC closes on Friday, September 2. Learn more about the Wisconsin Birth to 3 Program! Training is on September 20. Come work with us! DECE is hiring.
 

See the Monkeypox guidance from DHS and the CDC. August 22 – September 2 is the August application period for Round 2 of the CCC Stabilization Payment Program. Come and work with us! DCF/DECE is hiring multiple positions. Reminder: Learn about and register for the 2022 WECA conference September 29 – October 1. Please return your BIF to your CCR&R today!
 

August 22 – September 2 is the application period for Round 2 of the CCC Stabilization Payment Program. Don’t delay! Start your Round 2 application today!  Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions. 

Read the updated CDC COVID-19 Guidance for child care programs and share it with families. Get ready! Round 2 of the CCC Stabilization Payment Program starts Monday, August 22. Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions. 

Update/Application Week for Round 2 of the CCC Stabilization Payment Program starts August 22. Count Weeks are August 7-20. Learn about and register for the 2022 WECA conference Sept. 29 – Oct. 1. Read the DHS press release encouraging COVID-19 vaccinations for a healthy school year. Come work with us! DECE is hiring multiple positions. Please complete and return your BIF to your local CCR&R now! 

The July CCC application/update week is closed. Round 2 begins August 22. View the DECE job listings and join our team!

Read about our DCF DECE Administrator being Chosen as 2022 Ascend Fellow. Join us for Tuesday Talks with DECE on August 16. Save the date for the upcoming Out-of-School Time conference November 1-2. Please fill out the WEESSN staffing and enrollment survey by August 19. The July CCC application/update week is closed. Reminder about when to submit a VPA. 
 

There is a YoungStar transition coming soon. Review updated guidance on Voluntary Repayment Agreements. Reminder to check your background check notices and get fingerprints done. The July Child Care Counts application period is closed and applications are being reviewed. DCF is hiring for multiple positions. Come work with us!

July Child Care Counts application has been re-opened until 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, August 3. DCF is hiring for multiple positions. Come work with us!

July Child Care Counts application has been re-opened until 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, August 3.

The July Child Care Counts Application/Update week closes tomorrow - July 29. Please return your completed BIF to your CCR&R. Reminder: Southern Regional Office is moving to TGT on August 2. Reminder: Read about maintaining or restoring water quality if you closed temporarily closed your facilities. DCF is hiring for multiple positions. Come work with us!
 

This week is CCC application/update week and CCC audit letters have gone out. Watch for the Wisconsin Shares postcard mailing going out July 29 to families with current Wisconsin Shares Authorizations. If you missed last week's Tuesday Talks with DECE, the July Tuesday Talks recording is now available online.
 

Child Care Counts Application/Update Week is next week - 7/25-29. Child Care Counts audit letters are going out soon. A Wisconsin Shares postcard mailing is going out July 29 to families with current Wisconsin Shares Authorizations. Check your background check notices and get your fingerprints done timely. DCF is hiring multiple positions within the Division of Early Care and Education. The Bureau of Early Care Regulation – Southern Regional Licensing Office will begin moving building locations on August 2, 2022.

June Child Care Counts payments available tomorrow via letters in the Child Care Provider Portal. Save the Date! July 19 is the next Tuesday Talks with DECE. 

July CCC Stabilization Payment Program Count Weeks are July 10-23. Save the Date! July 19 is the next Tuesday Talks with DECE. Learn about the free training from WECAN and CYSHCN and how parents can access it. Participate in the Family Engagement Collaboration Call on July 27. CCR&Rs need you to complete your Business Intake Form (BIF).
 

There's still time to sign up for WEESSN Tier 1 Services for free! Child Care Counts Stabilization Payment Program Round 2 begins in August. Providers can learn more about Wisconsin Shares Program Integrity through a handy training video and booklet. Beat the heat and review the Summer Heat Safety Tips and keep summer fun!
 

Summer staffing changes? Make sure your CCPP and staff background check information is accurate and up-to-date. Reminder: The June 21 Tuesday Talks with DECE recording about Child Care Counts is available. Reminder: The June Child Care Counts application period is closed and applications are being reviewed.
 

The June 21 Tuesday Talks with DECE recording about Child Care Counts is available. View it now! CACFP provides questions and answers about the infant formula shortage to support CACFP operators and their families. The June Child Care Counts application period is closed and applications are being reviewed. Read about Maintaining or Restoring Water Quality for temporarily closed child care centers.
 

June Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. Applications are being reviewed.

June Child Care Counts application/update period closes tomorrow - June 24 at 11:59 p.m. The T.E.A.C.H. application deadline for the fall semester is July 1. Learn more in the REWARD and T.E.A.C.H updates.

Join us TODAY – June 21 – on Zoom for the new Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. It's time to update your Child Care Counts applications this week. Sign up for free training for Children’s Long-Term Support Program for children with special needs. Read about the REWARD and T.E.A.C.H expansions.
 

Get ready! Next week (June 20-24), is the next Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Join us June 21 on Zoom for the new Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m.
 

Join us June 21 on Zoom for the new Tuesday Talks with DECE at 1:30 p.m. Next week, June 20-24, is the next Child Care Counts Application Update Week. DHS is offering free COVID-19 testing for all recreational, educational, and day camps.
 

Providers are required to report if a child receiving Wisconsin Shares has not attended in the past 30 days. Check your Provider Portal for May Child Care Counts payments, available tomorrow, June 10. Get ready - the next Child Care Counts Application Update Week is June 20-24.

Read the CACFP Infant Formula Tips for dealing with the formula shortage. May Child Care Counts payments available June 10, in the Provider Portal. June 20-24 is the next Child Care Counts Application Update Week.
 

Check out the Free Child Care Foundational Training Now Available! Read about the summer heat safety tips to ensure summertime fun remains fun. Register for the AHT Train the Trainer training online on June 7.

Read about the Project Growth! grant recipients. Reminder: Additional one-time payment coming June 2 for Child Care Counts Spring 2021 Response and Relief Program. Reminder: The Free Child Care Foundational Training starts June 1. 
 

DCF has identified approximately $2.6M in available unused funding from the Child Care Counts Payment Program from the previous Spring 2021 round. An additional payment is coming in June for Child Care Counts Spring 2021 Response and Relief Program. Register for the Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Train the Trainer Training on June 7. Reminder: The May Child Care Counts payment program application period is closed. 

The May Child Care Counts payment program application period is closed. Read about the DHS recommendation for the COVID-19 booster for everyone 5 years of age and older. Read the DHS Tips for Families During National Infant Formula Shortage. Be sure to send in your Child Care Immunization Assessment by May 31. Learn about the Advancing Equity in Wisconsin’s Early Education Workforce study. Read about maintaining or restoring water quality information for temporarily closed child care centers.
 

The May Child Care Counts Application/Update period closes tomorrow - May 20 at 11:59 p.m. Please read the updates to COVID-19 Guidance for child care providers. Reminder: Learn about the upcoming Free Foundational Child Care Training coming June 1.
 

This week is Child Care Counts Application/Update Week! Update your staff and child records as needed. Deadline to apply is May 20. Reminder: Big changes coming to REWARD and T.E.A.C.H. programs. 

Sweeping changes are coming to WECA's T.E.A.C.H. and REWARD Programs. The May Child Care Counts application/update period starts in two weeks: May 16-20. 

DCF announces Free Child Care Foundational Training beginning June 1. Reminder that the Child Care Immunization Assessment is due May 31. The May Child Care Counts application/update period starts in two weeks: May 16-20. 

DCF celebrates Child Care Provider Appreciation Day – May 6. This week is also Teacher Appreciation Week (May 2-6). ECE professionals are encouraged to apply to serve on the Commission on Professional Excellence in ECE. The May Child Care Counts application/update period starts in two weeks: May 16-20. 
 

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 2-6 and May 6 is Provider Appreciation Day. The May Child Care Counts application/update period starts in two weeks: May 16-20.  Reminder: Learn more about the Healthy Environments for Kids DHS’ Safekeeping Campaign.

The Cost of Care survey closes April 30. Please return your survey today! Read the latest PDG news in this week’s newsletter! The May Child Care Counts application/update period is May 16-20. 

This week is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week. Thank someone who made a difference in your life or the life of your child. Learn more about the Healthy Environments for Kids DHS’ Safekeeping Campaign. The Office of Child Care’s National Center on Early Childhood Quality Assurance is partnering with Tom Copeland on one more upcoming webinar on improving business practices for family child care (FCC) providers. The April Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. The May Child Care Counts application/update period is May 16-20. 
 

Watch the program integrity training for child care providers. Time is running out to return your Cost of Care survey. Read the tips for parents on healthy screen time use for children just release by the Office of Children's Mental Health. Reminder: the April Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. The May Child Care Counts application/update period is May 16-20. 

The April Child Care Counts application/update period is now closed. The May Child Care Counts application/update period is May 16-20. 
 

Two days left to apply/update applications for April Child Care Counts! Deadline is Friday, April 15. Read about the upcoming American Indian Studies events with DPI and other partners. Return your Cost of Care Survey by April 30. Learn about the new funding opportunity for ECE workforce apprenticeship programs. Register for Tom Copeland webinars on April 20 and May 4. Reminder: Make sure you are maintaining or restoring your water quality after temporary or prolonged closures.

It's Child Care Counts Application/Update Week! Time to update your staff and child records in the Provider Portal. Learn more about the launch of Raising Wisconsin - a statewide initiative dedicated to advocating for transformational change in Wisconsin’s early care and education system and optimal child health and well-being.

Next week - April 11-15 - is Child Care Counts Update/Application Week. Now is the time to ensure all staff and/or household members are listed in the Provider Portal. Have you updated your background check information in the Provider Portal? Reminder: providers may request KN-95 masks from your local public health department while supplies last. 

We're celebrating Week of the Young Child April 2-8. Looking for masks for children ages 4-12? Child care providers may contact their local public health department for masks while supplies last. Now is the time to update your Child Care Provider Portal with current or prospective employees and household members. April 11-15 is the next Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. The Cost of Care survey closes soon - April 30. Submit your Child Care Immunization Assessment online by May 31, 2022. 

One day left to spend funding from Spring 2021 Child Care Counts Response and Relief Program – deadline is April 1. The Project Growth grants deadline is April 4. Review the new Child Care Counts important dates webpage. Reminder: free Child Care Foundational Training coming soon. Check out the free, helpful tools so providers can easily share children/student records. 
 

Read about free Child Care Foundational Training coming soon. Learn about public service loan forgiveness for the ECE workforce. Read about free, helpful tools so providers can easily share children/student records. Reminder: April 4 is the deadline to apply for Project Growth grants! Reminder: Make sure your center’s background check information is up to date in the Provider Portal. Reminder: Spring 2021 Child Care Counts Response and Relief Program spending deadline is April 1. Reminder: Register for the upcoming April and May Tom Copeland webinars. Reminder: The March Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. March 27 – April 9 is the April Child Care Counts Count Week. 
 

Is your center's background check information up to date in the Provider Portal? Summer programs and day camps need to enter all new staff in the Provider Portal. Bookmark the new Child Care Counts Payment Program Important Dates webpage! Read the latest Project Growth updates and apply for the grant programs by April 4. The March Child Care Counts updates and applications are being reviewed. The Spring 2021 Response and Relief Program funds must be spent by April 1, 2022. 

The March Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. Read about the upcoming Tom Copeland webinars for family child care providers. Reminder: Spring 2021 Child Care Counts Response and Relief Program spending deadline is April 1. Reminder: today is the last day to apply for the IS Business Consultant position in BOP. 

Only two days left to apply for March Child Care Counts funds. Deadline is Friday, March 18. The Spring 2021 Child Care Counts Response and Relief Program spending deadline is April 1. Applications for Project Growth grants are due April 4. The deadline for the Cost of Care Survey is April 30. Learn about the new Risk and Reach website - a tool is intended to assess the needs of young children, birth to 5, as well as potential gaps in services delivered by state and federal programs. DCF is hiring an IS Business Consultant - deadline is March 22. 

This is Child Care Counts application/update week! You must update your staff and child records in the Child Care Provider Portal. Never applied for Child Care Counts? Now is the time to apply in the Child Care Provider Portal so you don’t miss out on funds! Time is running out - April 4 is the deadline to apply for Project Growth grants. DCF is hiring an Information Systems Business Consultant - deadline to apply is March 22.

DCF is hiring for a Bureau of Operations and Planning Information Systems (IS) Business Consultant. March 14-18 is Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Project Growth grant applications are now open, with priority consideration for Partner Up! ending on March 14. You can also view on-demand webinars and attend upcoming live webinars, including a new Dream Up! webinar on March 14.

The Promoting Early Childhood Conference is right around the corner - register today! Reminder: the new Child Care Counts Spending Tool Training Video is available. Watch it today! Reminder: Project Growth Applications are open. Attend a webinar to learn more!

Project Growth grant applications are now open. You can also view on-demand webinars and attend upcoming live webinars. There's a new Spending Tool video available in the Child Care Counts resources section. The Child Care Counts February application/update period is closed. Attend an Info Session on WEESSN Tier 1 Services. The deadline to complete your cost of care survey is April 30.

Project Growth grant applications are now open. Stay up-to-date on maintaining or restoring water quality in ECE facilities after temporary or prolonged closures. DHS shared an alert regarding a recall on informant formula. Help share important Information with families receiving Wisconsin Shares. Read the recently released Wisconsin Employer Perceptions of Early Care and Education: 2021 Research Snapshot. The Child Care Counts February application/update period is closed. 

DHS shared an alert regarding a recall on informant formula. Help share important Information with families receiving Wisconsin Shares. Attend the Project Growth Webinar on February 28 at noon and subsequent webinars on Partner Up! and Dream Up! grant programs. Read the recently released Wisconsin Employer Perceptions of Early Care and Education: 2021 Research Snapshot. The Child Care Counts February application/update period is closed. Applications are being reviewed. Want to work at DCF? DECE is hiring a Bureau of Early Care Regulation Director. 

Register to attend the Project Growth Webinar on February 28 at noon! The Child Care Counts February application/update period is closed. Applications are being reviewed. Register for the virtual PEC 2022 Conference. Want to work at DCF? DECE is hiring a Bureau of Early Care Regulation Director. Submit your input for the WMELS Review Process by March 2. 

Only two days left to apply/update your February Child Care Counts application! The deadline is 11:59 p.m. on February 18. Make sure your correct email address is on your Child Care Counts application. Want to work at DCF? We're hiring a Bureau of Early Care Regulation Director. Deadline to apply is February 28. Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS) public comment period for the review process goes through March 2. Watch your mail for a Cost of Care Survey and fill it out right away. Deadline to complete surveys is April 30. The Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health announced the publication of a new fact sheet Supporting Child Well-Being through COVID-19 Grief.

This week is Child Care Counts application/update week! If you were approved for the January payment, you must update your staff and child records in the Child Care Provider Portal this week. Register today for the WEESSN Tier 1 Services info session on February 23. Reminder: On January 1, 2022, Wisconsin Shares rates increased for many families. Reminder: COVID-19 Resources are available for child care, Head Start, and school-age programs. Read about accessing adult masks and testing options. 

DCF announces additional $194 million investment in early care and education! Get ready to update your staff and child records as needed. Next week - February 14-18 - is the February Child Care Counts Application/Update Week. Read about how you can get more COVID-19 resources for child care, Head Start, and school-age programs. Start getting ready to apply for one or both of Project Growth’s grant programs: Partner Up! and Dream Up! Grant applications for both programs will open February 28 and close April 4.

Next week is Child Care Counts Application/Update Week! Prepare to update your staff and child records as needed. WEESSN Tier 1 Services are available for family child care providers. Register for the March 9 webinar to learn more! DCF is hiring a Child Care Licensing Program Specialist. Today is the last day to apply! Register for the WFCCA conference in Green Bay, April 29-30. 

DCF is hiring a Child Care Licensing Program Specialist - apply today! Register for the WFCCA conference in Green Bay April 28-30.  Reminder: Many families saw an increase in the monthly Wisconsin Shares subsidy amount starting January 1. Now through February 12 is the Child Care Counts February Count Weeks.

February 14-18 is the upcoming application/update week for Child Care Counts. DCF Partners with SFTA and FCF Project Growth to administer the Partner Up! and Dream Up! grant programs. Complete your Cost of Care survey by April 30. Center Directors: Attend the February 23 WEESSN Tier 1 information session to learn about their many supports. 

If your center cares for children ages 2-4 years, please watch your mailbox and email inboxes for a letter from the Department of Health Services (DHS) regarding the spring 2022 Child Care Immunization Assessment. The standards review process for the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS)  is now open. Public input will be captured via an online survey. The January Child Care Counts applications and updates are being processed. The next application/update period is February 14-18, 2022. 

The January Child Care Counts application/update period is closed. Providers will be notified of their eligibility for funds by February 11. Watch for the new Cost of Care (Market Rate) Survey coming soon from your CCR&R! The survey deadline is April 30. Read about water quality tips following a temporary or prolonged facility closure. YoungStar addresses staffing crisis with updates to the Grace Policy. 

Only two days left to apply/update your January Child Care Counts information. The deadline is Friday, January 21 at 11:59 p.m. Reminder: Read the updated COVID-19 recommendations for child care settings. 

Review last Friday's updated COVID-19 recommendations for child care settings. This week is Application/Update Week for January. Update your Provider Portal by 11:59 p.m. on January 21.

Read the updated COVID-19 recommendations for child care settings based on new Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance for the general public. Learn about updated isolation and quarantine period recommendations. For assistance in determining the length of isolation or quarantine, please use the decision tree in our COVID-19: When a Child or Staff Member Can Return to Care. 

Child Care Counts Reminders: January 2-15 are the Count Weeks for January applications/updates. Next week, January 17-21, 2022, is the new Application/Update Week. Make sure your Child Care Provider Portal information is up to date and accurate. 

Read the latest Child Care Counts reminders: January 17-21 is the new Application/Update Week. Submit a proposal for breakout sessions at the March 16-17 virtual  Promoting Early Childhood Conference. 

Read the numerous Child Care Counts Reminders - especially the updated Temporary Closure information. Read the new Temporary Closure Guide. Get the details on the historic Wisconsin Shares rate increase that reaches over 28,000 children. Read the updated DHS public health practices for children above age 2. Check out the new Early Childhood Health Consultation website. Get ready for the next round of Child Care Counts payments by updating  your Child Care Provider Portal. Learn more about the WEESSN Family Child Care Toolkit. Get your pandemic questions answered and register for the Sleeves Up for the Kids free webinar. 

DHS urges public health practices to keep kids safe. Register for free webinar: Sleeves Up for the Kids. December CCC payments coming this week. Learn about the public hearing on January 5 for child care licensing proposed rule revisions.