close

DCYF is tracking federal actions that may affect programs serving Minnesota children and families. Get verified facts, current status, and how services continue.

Title

Early Childhood Connector Article Archive

Widgets

Child Care Assistance Program and recent federal actions

We're sure many of you are tracking the news on the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and the federal government’s actions to freeze Minnesota’s child care payments. We recognize the alarm and questions this has raised. Here's what you need to know.

Resources for recent events

We recognize the impact that recent federal immigration enforcement efforts, federal actions, and attention on the Child Care Assistance Program is having on Minnesotans. We’re reaching out to share resources that may be helpful to you.

Birth Defects Awareness Month

January is Birth Defects Awareness Month, a time to promote healthy pregnancies, highlight ways to reduce the risk of birth defects, and share resources for children living with birth defects and their families.

Cultural food toolkits support providers and families

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) has created a series of toolkits to help teach about the differences related to cultures and food. 

Help families plan for early learning

Choosing the right early learning setting is an important step for families with young children. The Head Start and Public Preschool Referral program is a simple, statewide tool that helps families explore early learning opportunities and begin planning for their child’s education.

Help improve the DCYF website

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is looking for child care providers to interview about our website, dcyf.mn.gov.

Coming soon: $1.9 million RFP for early childhood facilities

The Child Care Services Division will soon release a $1.9 million Request for Proposal (RFP) for pre-design, design, construction, and renovation of early learning program facilities across the state. Facilities must be owned by a state agency or political subdivision that will also serve as the lead applicant.

Stay safe this winter: fire and carbon monoxide safety

As temperatures drop, it’s important to stay mindful of fire and carbon monoxide safety in our programs and homes. The DCYF Licensing Division works closely with the State Fire Marshal team to share important safety information with providers and families.

Safe sleep practices save lives

Infant Safe Sleep Week is Nov. 16-22. The Minnesota Department of Health is encouraging all infant caregivers to tune into what pediatricians are saying about the best ways to keep babies sleeping safely. 

Parent Aware One-Star Rating Change

Starting July 1, 2026, all child care programs that are licensed and in good standing will receive a One-Star Parent Aware Rating.

ECFE marketing toolkit now available

A new early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) Marketing Toolkit is now available to help programs across Minnesota reach more families and promote the value of ECFE in their communities.