At the 2025 NCAI Annual Convention, NICCA will take the main stage and lead a breakout session celebrating Tribal child care as a foundation of sovereignty, culture, and community. From advocating for CCDF as a tool of self-determination to sharing hands-on ways to weave Native traditions into early learning, NICCA continues to stand strong for our children—the strength of our Nations.

New Mexico is making history as the first state in the nation to offer no-cost universal child care for all families—regardless of income—beginning November 1. This groundbreaking investment will save families an average of $12,000 per child each year and strengthen the early childhood workforce through higher wages, expanded access, and targeted growth for infant and toddler care. By centering equity, community, and sustainability, NM is setting a new national standard for w

NICCA will be at the NCAI 82nd Annual Convention & Marketplace in Seattle, November 16–21, 2025. While there, we invite Tribal child care and early learning leaders to share their stories with us as part of Connecting Our Programs: A Living Resource of Tribal Stories and Strategies. This is your opportunity to uplift your community’s voice, highlight your program’s strengths, and contribute to a resource that celebrates the diversity and resilience of Tribal child care across

The National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA) is committed to ensuring that Native children and families have access to...

The Senate has released a draft of the Native Children’s Commission Implementation Act of 2025. NICCA helped shape key early childhood provisions, including increased Tribal child care funding, formal consultation requirements, and a new Tribal Advisory Committee. This is a vital opportunity to strengthen systems for Native children and families.

Major Senate proposals could reshape Medicaid, taxes, and Tribal programs—learn what’s at stake and how to share your story.

Stay up to date with the latest Child Care in the News.

Explore a new tool to find and track federal funding for children and youth services—now searchable by state and program category.

The FY 2026 “skinny” budget proposes major cuts across federal programs—raising concerns for Tribal early childhood and education.

In a recent survey conducted by NICCA, Tribal early childhood leaders shared how changes from HHS are directly impacting their operations.