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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.

Explore how Tribal child care programs are transforming early learning with culture, innovation, and sovereign leadership.

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

Providers play a key role in spotting early vision problems that often go unnoticed. By watching for warning signs like squinting, eye rubbing, or sitting too close to books and screens, you can help families seek early eye care that supports children’s learning, confidence, and development.

Big feelings can overwhelm young children, but simple strategies make a difference. Breathing games, focusing activities, and cozy calm spaces help kids learn to manage emotions while giving caregivers tools to stay patient and model self-care.