Resources to Support Program Leaders
Early childhood program leaders, such as center directors, administrators, assistant directors, education coordinators and family child care program owners, need support and resources that connect them and their staff to opportunities that grow their skills, increase their level of education, and improve the quality of care they provide. Child Care Aware of Minnesota offers TELL Talks, professional development support, and an online credential for center directors to hone essential skill areas needed to successfully operate a quality early childhood education program.
Topics for Early Learning Leaders (TELL) Talks are monthly webinars for early childhood program leaders to facilitate solutions-focused discussions for your questions about the early childhood field in Minnesota. TELL Talks are a networking opportunity for leaders to engage and share ideas surrounding a specific content area. These one-hour webinars are informational and do not meet the standards for a formal training event, so participants do not receive a certificate of completion.
To receive notifications and registration information about upcoming TELL Talks, email the Workforce Advising Coordinator to be added to the email list.
TELL Talk Recordings
How We Raise the Next Generation of Democratic Citizens
Understanding the Unifying Framework
Closing Learning Gaps for Young Children Using an Equity Lens
Empower to Educate
A Director's Guide for Leading an Early Childhood Program - Part 2
The online Director Credential offers valuable information in the areas of administration, supervision, management, and leadership. It is offered in collaboration with the Minnesota Association for the Education of Young Children (MnAEYC), is recognized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and meets all the director training requirements for NAEYC Accreditation plus many state and national director administrative training requirements.
This credential is offered in an online learning community format. This allows students the flexibility of learning online, while supporting shared learning experiences and active discussions with peers. Students benefit from a group of instructors who are invested in their learning, and have access to a Learning Community Coordinator for additional support. Participation is open to professionals across the country, including child care directors, assistant directors, and others currently in or preparing for leadership positions.
Complete the Director Credential Interest Form for more information.
Child Care Aware of Minnesota encourages early childhood educators and program leaders to advance their own education and to support the professional development of their staff through obtaining credentials and degrees. Child Care Aware of Minnesota offers several programs to help achieve this goal.
T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® MINNESOTA is a scholarship program that helps early childhood and school-age educators increase their levels of education, compensation, and commitment to the field by earning college credits and degrees. Learn more about sponsoring one of your employees.
REETAIN Bonuses help supplement income for early childhood educators as they work to establish a career in the field. Help your staff apply for a REETAIN Bonus.
The nationally recognized Child Development Associate® (CDA) Credential™ offers recognition for valuable knowledge about working with children and helping them reach their full potential. Child Care Aware of Minnesota offers online Learning Communities that provide the core training for the CDA®. For more information about enrolling your staff in a Learning Community, email Workforce Advising Coordinator.
