Resource Links
About NICCA
The National Indian Child Care Association is the only nationally organized grassroots alliance of Tribally-governed and operated child care and early learning programs. NICCA was established in 1993 to provide information, support, coordination, and advocacy for Tribal child care. Tribal child care programs serve over 300,000 American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children from over 500 Federally recognized Tribes across the United States. NICCA serves Tribal governments operating the federally-funded Child Care and Development Fund and those operating their own, Tribally funded child care programs and services. We promote and support Tribal governments designing and implementing programs which are beneficial to the unique needs of their own Tribal citizens.
NICCA Sessions at the Event
2
Weaving Native Cultures
into Curriculum
Explore how to enrich early learning environments with Native stories, language, cultural activities, and community knowledge. This session provided practical guidance and real examples to help programs enhance cultural relevance and support the well-being of Native children.
Join
NICCA
Be part of the national movement uplifting Tribal child care. Membership connects you to peers, advocacy updates, and professional development opportunities that strengthen your program and community. Your dues directly support our collective work to protect and grow Tribal early care and education.
Join the Board
of Directors
NICCA’s Board of Directors guides our mission and ensures Tribal values shape every decision. Board Members—supported by their Tribe’s CCDF program—help influence national policy, strengthen Tribal governance, and connect with peers leading change across Indian Country. Applicants must represent a Tribe’s CCDF program.
Register for the 2026 National Conference
Join us in Hawai‘i, September 14–16, 2026, for the National Tribal Child Care Conference: The Strength of Our Children, The Future of Our Nations. Experience deep learning, cultural connection, and the spirit of aloha as we gather to celebrate and strengthen Tribal early care and education.
Multiple Dates
Sun, Sep 13Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Resort
Multiple Dates
Multiple Dates
Sat, Oct 18Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center
Fri, Oct 17Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center
For Tribal Child Care Professionals
Connect with Our Virtual Groups
Stay engaged with peers through NICCA’s online communities—safe spaces to connect, collaborate, and share solutions. Join networks for Tribal Administrators, Providers, Parents, and Advocates, or connect regionally through groups like the Oklahoma Tribal Child Care Association.
Join Our Tribal Administrator Calls
Every third Thursday at 3 p.m. ET, Tribal CCDF Administrators and Managers come together to discuss challenges, share promising practices, and build support networks—free from outside agendas. These calls foster collaboration and collective problem-solving across Indian Country.
Share Your Tribal Story
Your story matters. NICCA’s Tribal Stories Project uplifts the experiences and wisdom of programs, providers, and families across Indian Country. Share how your community is creating pathways for Native children to thrive—your voice helps shape policy, inspire others, and strengthen advocacy nationwide.
Explore Native Books and Resources
Discover thoughtfully selected materials that celebrate and reflect Native cultures, languages, and traditions. These books, toys, and learning tools were recommended by Tribal CCDF programs and early childhood professionals to help educators and families weave cultural knowledge into everyday learning. From stories that honor Indigenous wisdom to hands-on materials that connect children to identity and community, these resources support a more authentic and meaningful early learning experience.
NICCA is not affiliated with nor endorses any of the products or resources listed. We share them as examples of cultural learning tools that may enrich your program.