Celebrating National Provider Appreciation Day: Honoring the Heart of Tribal Child Care
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- 2 min read
Each year, on the Friday before Mother’s Day—May 9 this year—we pause to celebrate National Provider Appreciation Day, a special moment to uplift and recognize those who make the world go 'round for working families: our child care providers.
These professionals—teachers, caregivers, aunties, uncles, and all who help nurture and guide our children—are more than just essential workers. They are culture keepers, educators, and the steady hands supporting the next generation of Native leaders.
At NICCA, we know that child care is sacred work. And while a single day could never fully capture the depth of gratitude we have for our Tribal CCDF administrators, center staff, family child care providers, and community caregivers, we can still take a moment to say: thank you.
How You Can Celebrate Provider Appreciation Day
Looking for a meaningful way to honor the child care providers in your life or community? Here are some simple but heartfelt ideas:
Say “thank you.”
A sincere message goes a long way. A handwritten note, a video message from a child, or even a kind social media post can make a provider’s day.
Gift time or self-care.
Consider helping a provider take some time for themselves—a coffee gift card, a childcare swap, or just giving them space to rest.
Create a treat box.
Organize a care package filled with goodies: snacks, self-care items, or small gifts from local businesses. It’s a lovely way to show appreciation with a personal touch.
Why Child Care Providers Are Pillars in Tribal Communities
Our Tribal child care professionals do more than supervise—they shape the future. Here are five powerful reasons to celebrate them: They wear many hats. From educator to chef to counselor, child care providers fill a wide range of roles to support children and families.
They extend the village. As more families work or attend school full-time, providers are stepping in as extended caregivers, helping to raise our little ones.
They break barriers. More men and younger people are joining the field, helping to diversify and strengthen the child care workforce.
They empower learning. Early learning experiences with caregivers boost emotional, language, and academic development.
They carry culture. Tribal providers uniquely incorporate language, songs, stories, and ceremony into daily care—keeping our traditions alive.
Why This Day Matters
We love Provider Appreciation Day because it gives us space to honor the everyday heroes who are too often overlooked. It reminds us of the critical role child care plays in Tribal communities—not just as a workforce support, but as a cultural foundation.
It also shines a light on the need for continued investment in child care infrastructure, training, and funding—because when we support providers, we support families, communities, and future generations.
So, from all of us at NICCA to all of you: Happy Provider Appreciation Day. You are seen. You are valued. And you are deeply appreciated.
