Early Childhood

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The Office of Early Childhood (formerly known as Division of Child Care & Early Childhood Education) knows that the earliest years are critical for brain development and learning so they work to ensure children and families have access to a safe, high-quality, and nurturing care. The office ensures that Arkansas children and families have access to a safe, high-quality, developmentally appropriate early-learning environment. The office accomplishes this by educating and assisting parents; licensing, regulating, and supporting child care providers, and working with communities to prepare children for future success. It also works closely with the Early Childhood Commission.

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Jul
22
Arkansas Early Childhood Commission Meeting

Posted by: Office of Early Childhood

The Arkansas Early Childhood Commission will meet July 22 at 10 a.m. at 2 Capitol Mall, Room 531.

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Oct
21
Arkansas Early Childhood Commission Meeting

Posted by: Office of Early Childhood

The Arkansas Early Childhood Commission will meet October 21 at 10 a.m. at 2 Capitol Mall, Room 531.

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 News Releases

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Publish date: 11/9/2023
Posted by: Office of Early Childhood

The Arkansas Department of Education announced today the initial cohort of 12 organizations, representing 29 counties, that will establish a comprehensive, localized plan to ensure children and families have access to high-quality early childhood education in their communities.

Publish date: 4/23/2023
Posted by: Office of Early Childhood

The owner and operator of a preschool in Ash Flat and the education coordinator at a Head Start program in Little Rock have been named the 2023 Arkansas Outstanding Early Childhood Professionals of the Year, the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) announced today.