We are expanding the Child Care Zone initiative to include the Early Years Village — a place where child care providers across South Central Kansas can connect, learn, and grow together as peers. This is more than a support group. It is a space where providers access practical tools, peer learning, shared calendars, and relevant resources to strengthen operations, launch new programs, and sustain quality services for families.

You Are Not Alone in This Work 💬🌱

Child care is a rewarding yet often isolating profession. Research shows that family child care providers and classroom teachers can face social isolation, limited peer support, and emotional strain, especially when working independently or in rural spaces. Professional development and network-based supports have been linked to reduced isolation and improved wellbeing for early childhood providers. https://www.nccp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/text_1224.pdf

Building Community Through Shared Support

Early Years Village brings providers together across five counties to:

✔ Reduce professional isolation
✔ Share strategies for challenging behaviors
✔ Support each other in using evidence-informed practices
✔ Build connections with families through a shared approaches like Conscious Discipline

When providers are supported, they are better equipped to support children’s growth, strengthen family partnerships, and sustain high-quality care.

How Early Years Village Supports You

These trusted resources provide the foundation. Early Years Village adds:

• Local peer connection across five counties
• Shared calendar of trainings
• Navigation assistance when paperwork feels overwhelming
• Opportunities for mentorship and leadership
• Coordination with regional economic development partners

You do not have to navigate this work alone. When providers are supported, children benefit, families thrive, and communities grow stronger.

To join the Early Years Village network, contact us via email or phone!

📧 scchildcarecircle@gmail.com
📞 620-221-7224

What Will You Find in the Early Years Village?

✔ Shared Calendar of Trainings & Events
Stay up to date with professional development, local licensing information, and peer network meetings.

✔ Provider Toolkit & Resources
A central place for helpful guides and links that support starting, running, and improving a child care business. Examples from established sources include: