Early Childhood Enrichment

Programs for Parents & Child Care Providers

The Division of Child Care partners with five Early Childhood Enrichment (ECE) programs across the state to deliver services focused on parents, child care and after-school care providers. The ECE statewide training system was established to meet the growing demand for early childhood and school-age training and to help recruit and retain quality child care providers across South Dakota.

South Dakota's ECE programs offer a systematic approach to providing early childhood and school-age education services and technical assistance. Services are available to all child care and after-school care providers, parents and others involved in the day-to-day care of children and youth.

  1. Classes. Classroom-style, online and on-site training. Professional growth classes on issues such as child development, age-appropriate activities, effective guidance and program management.
  2. Technical Assistance. A quality enhancement system that includes on-site technical assistance and coaching to help providers gain knowledge and put it into practice.
  3. Consultations. Telephone consultations for early childhood care and education professionals and parents. 
  4. Community Resources. Promoting the health, safety and development of young children in early childhood and out of school time programs. 
  5. Parent Resources. Resources to help families to make informed choices when selecting a child care program for their child. 
  6. Community Education. Informing the community about child care issues.

*Services funded by Department of Social Services, Division of Child Care Services.