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Insights, Ideas, and Resources for Early Learning
Welcome to the Think Small Blog, your go-to destination for valuable insights, innovative ideas, and inspiring stories in the field of early learning. Dive into a treasure trove of articles crafted by our team of experts, dedicated to empowering child care providers, educators, and families.
Discover practical tips, evidence-based strategies, and the latest research findings to support children aged 0-5 on their journey to kindergarten readiness. From fostering social-emotional development to promoting cognitive skills, our blog covers a wide range of topics, ensuring you stay informed and equipped to make a positive impact on young lives.
Early Education Spotlight: Buttons & Bows Child Care
By Marie Huey, Public Policy & Advocacy CoordinatorVideo by Kristie Thorson, Communications Specialist Early Education Spotlight is an ongoing series that showcases great work happening in high-quality child care and ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Wendy's Story
“I’m exhausted. But I love my job and my families. I’m blessed to be an educator and care provider for the youngest Minnesotans.” Wendy Dewall used to have eight to ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Britney's Story
“I’m doing everything I can to ensure the families in my child care program have the financial stability they need right now and to keep everyone enrolled for the future.” ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Jean's Story
“I just ask that you realize we are essential business owners ALL the time, not just during the pandemic.” When Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued the stay-at-home order, Jean Mathison ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Jamie's Story
“I am happy that I am able to help out where I am needed. Although it may be a struggle, we will all get through it together.” Jamie Brown has ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Josalyn's Story
“The virus has thrown everything off so bad, and I’m worried that all the progress we’ve made with the kids will be gone, and that it’s going to be hard ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Irene's Story
“I wanted to remain available to all of my families so that even if they are working from home, they could have their children maintain routines, and the parents could ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Robyn's Story
“I love my job. I provide an important service to the community, but to be able to stay open much longer will be a challenge. We need financial help desperately.” ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Tammy's Story
“Do you close and risk losing families, or do you stay open and risk yourself and your own family’s health? Child care providers deserve a big pat on the back ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Elisa's Story
“The mental toll caused by the risk that an infection poses is a daily preoccupation.” With so many uncertainties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Maria ‘Elisa’ Vega is worried about ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Rdella's Story
“I don’t think child care providers were taken very seriously before,” White said. “I think people are seeing how important we are, and the Governor sees that too. We are ...
From the Front Lines of Child Care: Shirley's Story
“Family child care is a small business that depends on parents bringing their children to survive. If we all close down, then there will be nowhere for children to get ...
Coronavirus: Information for Child Care Providers
You are no doubt aware of reports concerning a new respiratory virus that health officials have termed novel coronavirus (COVID-19). You can find the most up-to-date information about what is ...
Tell Your Early Learning Story: Why It's Important
By Kristie Thorson, Communications Specialist Whether you’re a family child care provider who wants to share a program success or a parent who is struggling to find high-quality care, your ...
Early Education Spotlight - My Friends Christian Child Care and Preschool
By Marie Huey, Public Policy & Advocacy CoordinatorVideo by Kristie Thorson, Communications Specialist Early Education Spotlight is an ongoing series that showcases great work happening in high-quality child care and ...
Register for Think Small's 23rd Annual Family Child Care Business Seminar
Think Small’s 23rd Annual Family Child Care Business Seminar is coming up! It will be held November 5th at the Ramada Plaza Minneapolis. Use this opportunity to review 2016 tax ...