ARLINGTON, VA--(Marketwire - April 29, 2010) - Child care organizations and parents across the globe are joining together the Friday before Mother's Day, May 7, 2010, to celebrate Provider Appreciation Day. Provider Appreciation Day is a special day to recognize child care providers, teachers, school-age program staff, child care center directors and staff, and all those who work with children and are responsible for their education and care. It is estimated that there are nearly 2.8 million child care providers in the United States and that more than 11 million children under age 5 are in their care.
"By applauding the dedication of child care providers on May 7, we remind our communities of the importance of high-quality child care, and let providers everywhere know that we recognize and value their important work," said Linda K. Smith, Executive Director of the National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (NACCRRA), the host organization of Provider Appreciation Day. "The high-quality care they provide to children is of utmost importance because approximately 90 percent of brain development occurs during a child's first five years of life."
Many Governors across the United States have proclaimed May 7, 2010, as Provider Appreciation Day. Numerous state and local organizations have planned events and activities in support of Provider Appreciation Day. Luncheons, parades, dedications, and other recognition celebrations will take place throughout the United States on May 7 in an effort to honor child care providers for their hard work and commitment to children.
To learn more about Provider Appreciation Day or for ideas on how to recognize child care providers, visit www.providerappreciationday.org.
NACCRRA is our nation's leading voice for child care. We work with more than 700 state and local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies nationwide to help ensure that families in 99 percent of all populated ZIP codes in the United States have access to high-quality, affordable child care. To learn more about NACCRRA and how you can join us in ensuring access to high-quality child care for all families, visit us at www.naccrra.org.