By Marsha Erickson

West Central Initiative

Early Childhood Specialist

As my family prepares to celebrate our youngest child’s high school graduation, I’ve found myself looking back with deep gratitude. The years of school, activities, and growing pains have shaped our children into who they are—but their journey didn’t begin in a classroom or on a sports field––it began with their child care provider. 

When we sat down to make an invitation list for the graduation party, one of the first names we wrote was our former child care educator. She played a huge role in our kids’ lives, offering them care, stability, and guidance in those foundational years. I’m so thankful she was part of their story. 

Like most Minnesota families—roughly 75%—my husband and I both worked full time while our children were young. We were fortunate to find someone we trusted, who had early childhood education experience and openings for all of our kids. But when I was pregnant with our youngest, we quickly learned that all the infant slots were taken. That sinking feeling in my stomach is still fresh, even 18 years later. Thankfully, it worked out for us, but only because another family stepped aside. 

That moment revealed how fragile and competitive access to child care was even back then. Today, the challenges are even more daunting. 

Families across west central Minnesota are hearing “no” more often than ever before. There simply aren’t enough child care options. And while many efforts are underway to expand access, one of the most urgent steps we can take is to support and retain the providers we currently have. 

At West Central Initiative, we’re often part of local conversations about child care. During a recent gathering, we asked providers how they’d like to be shown appreciation. One woman’s response has stayed with me ever since: “I want an appreciation note on the downtown marquee in front of the grocery store! We work with young children, caring for and educating them. We’re often forgotten, tucked away in our own homes and in our classrooms. And unless you’re directly impacted by child care, the main street businesses do not think of us. We’re the businesses that keep other businesses in business!” 

She’s absolutely right. 

That’s why Child Care Provider Appreciation Day matters so much. It’s a moment to pause and recognize the caregivers who make it possible for the rest of us to work, contribute, and build strong communities. 

This year, West Central Initiative and our Early Childhood Initiative partners will be delivering gifts and hosting celebrations to honor all licensed child care providers in our region. It’s a small token of appreciation, but a heartfelt one. 

We also invite everyone, from parents to employers to neighbors, to join us. Post a thank-you on social media. Drop off a note of gratitude. Or, yes, put their names in lights on the marquee downtown. These small gestures matter. They remind providers that we see them, we value them, and we know the essential role they play. 

Because behind every high school graduate, every thriving kindergartner, every confident young learner, there’s someone who once held their hand, read them stories, and helped them feel safe while their parents worked. That someone is a child care provider, and they deserve to be celebrated.