SD ECE Conference Followup

Early Learner South Dakota, as the advocacy arm of SDAEYC, was proud to host the first business track pre-conference option at the Early Childhood Conference this April. We welcomed three exceptional national partners to discuss the child care crisis and also some innovative solutions businesses could consider. We welcomed Aaron Merchen from the United States Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Nancy Fishman from Ready Nation, and Ben Horowitz from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. We were so grateful for their time and expertise to share with leaders in SD!

-Kayla Klein

Updates form Early Learner Communities

Huron, Level of Excellence

Mt. Calvary Preschool in Huron was awarded Distinguished for the levels of excellence! Hooray!

Maternal Health Awareness Week

Mindfulness and Coping Skills

Do the things you love. Be selfish.

Jot down the things that bring you joy, comfort, and ease. This can be an activity, a tasty treat, your favorite movie, that one song you just can't help but sing along to. #DoYOU 

Find a new hobby or activity you love.

Let yourself feel the spark of curiosity, laughter as you learn, and the joy of starting something new. This is the moment for you to do that thing you've always been interested in. Plant tomatoes. Take an art class. Learn to swim. You can give yourself permission to try, to play, to explore.

Be courageous. Ask for help.

Vulnerability is the acceptance that life isn't easy, and that love is the toughest commitment you can make. Love yourself fiercely. Be vulnerable: it's inspiring. It’s ok to ask for help: there is a community for you. 

May 6 is Childcare Appreciation Day

Childcare workers are celebrated on this day, including teachers, nannies, and caregivers, all of who are essential workers in helping working parents continue to provide for their families. If you benefit from a childcare worker, be sure to send them a special thank you.

Imagination Book Stop

In partnership with Black Hills Reads, a series of Imagination Books Stops have been developed. Each Book Stop features information about the book, discussion ideas and activities.

Check out this month's featured Book Stop, The Tale of Peter Rabbit You can find them all on the Black Hills Reads website.

Take Action

Connect with state legislators to learn more about their positions on the issues that matter most to you.