Professional Development
The quality of care we provide in our homes increases with the educational level and training of the provider. Continuing education is important for the provider to keep up with new research in child growth, development and education. As practices have changed through the years, we have seen the results. Some teaching practices have not had the results we would anticipate and have to be changed. Keep up with the changes by attending conferences, trainings, and higher education programs.
Conferences
FCCPSD holds its annual child care conference in the spring. Check this website for the current conference. We provide a wide variety of class topics with a personal and fun touch. It's not just training, it's about developing close relationships with others in our field. CEUs are offered for those renewing their CDA.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a process many different industries use to identify exemplary practices in that particular field. Accreditation is both a status and a process. As a status, accreditation provides public notification that an institution or program meets standards of quality set forth by an accrediting agency. As a process, accreditation reflects the fact that in achieving recognition by the accrediting agency, the institution or program is committed to self-study and external review by one's peers in seeking not only to meet standards but to continuously seek ways in which to enhance the quality of the services provided.
NAFCC sponsors the only nationally recognized accreditation system designed specifically for family child care providers. This system was designed by hundreds of providers, parents, and early care and education experts in an effort to create a quality indicator for family child care programs across the country.NAFCC Accreditation is awarded to family child care providers who meet the eligibility requirements and the Quality Standards for NAFCC Accreditation. Accreditation reflects a high level of quality through a process that examines all aspects of the family child care program, i.e. relationships, the environment, developmental learning activities, safety and health, and professional and business practices.
FCCPSD supports accreditation and encourages its members to pursue CDA and Accredited status. We have providers who are experienced in both systems who are available for consultation.
Child Development Associate (CDA)
The Council for Professional Recognition, in keeping with its goal to meet the growing need for qualified early child care and education staff, administers the Child Development Associate® (CDA) National Credentialing Program. The CDA Program is designed to assess and credential early childhood education professionals. Our ECEs in South Dakota are continually offering training for providers as they work to become CDAs. Contact your local ECE for information about their program.