The Friday before Mother’s Day is set aside for Provider Appreciation Day, a special day to recognize, honor, and thank the people who dedicate themselves to caring for, teaching, and nurturing our children every week.
National Provider Appreciation Day was started in 1996 by a group of volunteers in New Jersey. This group saw the need to recognize the tireless efforts of providers who care for children of working parents. Momentum and support for this event have grown each year, and recognition currently includes individual and government organizations throughout the United States.
It is estimated that 2.2 million people work in the early childhood workforce across the country, caring for nearly 15 million children under age 6. Less than one-third of the children in America have a full-time stay-at-home parent. It takes a special person to work in the child care field and these individuals are often unrecognized. This day offers an opportunity for parents to show their child care providers their appreciation.
By applauding the dedication of child care providers on May 11, we remind our communities of the importance of quality child care, and let providers everywhere know that we recognize and value their important work.
Child care providers deserve a big “Thank you” for their dedication, commitment and compassion.