Get ready to showcase your classroom spirit for Read Across America week!
Will you be sharing some awesome classroom photos on Facebook or Instagram? Tag the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care, and we will re-share your post on our page/in our stories on social media!
The Oregon Child Care Start-Up and Expansion Grant could be for you!
Please see the flier below for full details.
To apply and learn more about the grant, please visit the Start Up and Expansion Site.
Applications are open February 19, 2024 through March 22, 2024.
Funding is limited and this grant opportunity will close on May 31, 2024 or when funding runs out.
Contact information: email startup@mail.wou.edu or call (503)838-8525
Coming Soon – State of Child Care Business Survey
First Children’s Finance has partnered with the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care to better understand the current state of Oregon child care businesses. We will be conducting a State of Child Care Business Survey and focus groups in mid-April to identify trends in the current financial operation of child care businesses, gain insight into operational and financial management issues, and gather entrepreneurs’ voices. The information shared will be included in a public-facing report and responses will not be identifiable. Stay tuned for additional information and the link to participate!
Reminder: Available Now: New online training opportunities from Inclusive Partners
Child care providers and members of the community can now access two free training(s) from Inclusive Partners! Read the descriptions below to learn more about each opportunity.
Inclusion 101
At times, the word inclusion can feel vague and open to interpretation. Individuals may feel unsure of what inclusion is, what it looks like, and how they can support inclusive practices in their setting. This Set 1 training will explore the three defining features of inclusion: access, participation, and support, and can help us all gain an understanding of what inclusion in early learning spaces really means. Participants will learn about fostering a sense of belonging for all children and will be challenged to look closely at their own values and beliefs so that we can create early learning spaces where all children feel welcomed.
The ADA and You
Do you think the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) seems overwhelming? It can be if you look at the legislation from a “have to” point of view. Come learn how we can move from the “have to’s” to the “get to’s” of inclusive policies and practices. This course is not presented by legal counsel.
Click here to register: Oregon Center for Career Development – Portland State University (educadium.com)
Reminder: Join our Nature Based Child Care Workgroup
The goal of the workgroup is to gather valuable feedback on about outdoor learning environments and discuss how rules can be structured to support the health and safety of children in these programs.
The application period opens February 12, 2024 and closes on March 8, 2024. Meetings will begin in April. Three to four meetings will be held, with one meeting scheduled per week. The meetings will be held virtually. Meeting days and times will be finalized with the selected participants.
APPLICATION: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/about-us/pages/rule-making.aspx
For questions about participation, please contact Carol Petersen carol.a.petersen@delc.oregon.gov
Reminder: Feedback Survey
The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) is seeking your input on upcoming revisions to the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) that impact family child care homes. This includes rules for Registered Family and Certified Family providers. CCLD is interested in knowing which rules you would like to see changed and why. Please provide us with your thoughts. CCLD values your input!
Click the link to take the survey https://delc.jotform.com/233554321706048
Reminder: Do you need help filing your taxes?
Even if you don’t owe taxes, you can get money back for your family by filing a return and claiming key refundable tax credits.
Learn more about the new Oregon Kids Credit, EITC, the Oregon EIC, and the Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit at https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/individuals/Pages/credits.aspx.
Reminder: Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.