Answers to common questions we receive from programs about their listings and how to make updates. Why doesn’t my program appear in the search results when I enter my city and/or zip code? We use Google Maps to locate and display programs in the search results. If you only enter a city or zip code,…

Highlighting tips and resources to help families access quality programs Plan ahead. Finding resources to help pay for quality child care can take some time. Some financial aid programs have waiting lists. Use a screening tool. Use this free Financial Aid Screening Tool to find out if your family is eligible for financial help. If the screening…

This basic step-by-step guide outlines a path to successfully find a program for your child. Begin Your Search Use our free online search tool to choose from more than 12,000 licensed child care and early education programs in Minnesota. Personalized help is available by calling 888.291.9811 or by using the website’s chat feature. Reach Out…

Use this guide to ease the transition into a new child care routine. Talk with Your Child Talk with your child about the new program. Tell them about activities and toys you saw, or the caregivers and kids you met during a visit. For some children, engaging in playacting about going to the new program…

After selecting a program, it’s smart for families to stay involved in their child’s care. Make Unexpected Visits Programs should welcome parent visits at any time, but keep in mind that certain times of the day are very busy. Take Your Time When dropping off or picking up your child, make time to occasionally stay…

Find quality care and early education by asking quality questions. Use this list of indicators to develop questions for each program you visit. Caring A close, positive relationship exists between children and their provider/early educator. A caring relationship is the foundation of good care. The adult should be consistent, kind, and patient. Look for someone…

These resources support young children’s growth and development. Help Me Grow The Help Me Grow website provides information about how a child develops between birth and age 5, offers ideas on how to encourage healthy development, and provides links to help if you have developmental concerns about your child.   Early Childhood Screening Early Childhood…

Addressing Racial Inequities Understanding barriers and finding solutions to participation in Parent Aware by racially, ethnically, culturally and geographically diverse providers. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is currently engaged in efforts to better understand and address inequities within Parent Aware. As part of this effort, in recent years, the department collaborated with Parent…

Intermediary Training Module Helping Parents and Families Find Child Care ParentAware.org | 888.291.9811 1 of 21 Helping Parents and Families Find Child Care Contents About Parent Aware Your Role In The Child Care Search Child Care and Early Education Play A Vital Role In Child Development Financial Support Is Available Types Of Care And Education…

“That’s a success story, the most amazing success story for me, personally, right now.” Veronica Oliva-Clour, Family Child Care Business Owner and Parent Aware Rated program, Sauk Rapids, MN Ongoing professional development and quality improvement in early care and education is hard work, but so important to the developing child and their lifelong success. Research…