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Explore CACFP-aligned Indigenous recipes and cultural food resources created by the ONIE Project. NICCA served on the Community Advisory Board to help ensure the materials reflect the needs of Tribal early childhood programs.

We are excited to unveil the official logo for the 2026 National Tribal Child Care Conference, created in partnership with Keiki O Ka ʻĀina Family Learning Centers. Blending meaningful Hawaiian elements, including the ‘Iwa bird, Lehua blossom, honu, volcano, and ocean waves - the design reflects both the beauty of Hawai’i and the shared values of Tribal Nations across the country.

A Continuing Resolution (CR) is a temporary funding measure Congress uses when it has not finished passing the full set of annual federal appropriations bills by the start of the new fiscal year on October 1.

Prenatal to Five Fiscal Strategies (P5FS) has launched the Home Visiting Cost Model (HVCM)—an interactive tool that helps programs understand the true cost of delivering home visiting services. The model includes customizable options for staffing, training, and benefits, with cost estimates available for all states, territories, and 36 Tribal Nations.

The food habits children form early can shape their lifelong health. By encouraging healthy eating, balanced choices, and cultural food traditions, providers and families can help children build lasting connections between nourishment, wellness, and identity.

As young children explore their world, safety is key. From securing furniture indoors to practicing sun and water safety outdoors, caregivers can create safe, nurturing environments that let children grow, explore, and build confidence while staying protected every day.

Children build confidence and resilience through small acts of independence every day. By creating routines, offering choices, and encouraging problem-solving, caregivers and providers can help children develop patience, self-reliance, and pride in their growing abilities.

Toddlers experience big emotions as they learn to express themselves and build independence. This article helps providers understand typical toddler behavior and development, recognize hen a child may need extra support, and partner with families to strengthen each child's emotional well being.

Providers play a powerful role in shaping how children see themselves. By creating safe, culturally grounded environments and fostering trust, responsibility, and belonging, caregivers can help young children build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self that will guide them throughout life.

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.