Latest Blog & News in English
MSDE Recently Updated Forms or Documents
06/29/2023Ensuring the well-being and #development of children in child care facilities is a responsibility that demands a thorough understanding of regulations and standards. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Division of Early Childhood, Office of Child Care (OCC) has recently updated thei... MSDE Recently Updated Forms or Documents
Encouraging Cooperation Instead of Compliance
10/09/2025Imagine this scene: It’s 4:30 p.m., snack time in your child care #classroom. A child tosses their cup aside. You might feel tempted to snap, “Pick that up now!” But what if instead, you invited cooperation—giving the child agency, respect, and voice? This is the heart of the... Encouraging Cooperation Instead of Compliance
What Professional Development Opportunities Does the New York EIP Scholarship Cover?
06/14/2025Is financial assistance the only thing standing between you and advancing your #career-in-early-childhood-education? For educators across New York State, the Educational Incentive Program (EIP) offers a significant opportunity to pursue professional development goals without the burden of tuition ... What Professional Development Opportunities Does the New York EIP Scholarship Cover?
How Family Involvement Supports Children’s Learning and Growth
01/22/2026What Does Family Involvement Mean in Early Childhood Education? Family involvement means families and educators working together to support children’s learning and growth. Families may be parents, grandparents, guardians, or other caregivers. When families are involved, they share information... How Family Involvement Supports Children’s Learning and Growth
Inclusive Care Strategies for Children with Special Needs
01/22/2026What Does Inclusive Care Mean for Children with Special Needs? Inclusive care means making sure every child feels welcome, safe, and supported, including children with special needs. Children with special needs may #learn, move, speak, or behave differently. Inclusive care focuses on strengths and ... Inclusive Care Strategies for Children with Special Needs
Managing challenging behavior without shame: a provider’s toolkit
01/21/2026What does “no shame” guidance mean in child care? “No shame” guidance means we correct behavior without hurting a child’s dignity. We don’t embarrass children, label them (“You’re a bad kid”), or use fear to control them. Instead, we: ... Managing challenging behavior without shame: a provider’s toolkit
Diapering as a learning moment: connection, language, and hygiene
03/23/2022Why can diapering be a #learning moment (not just a task)? In child care, diapering happens many times a day. It’s easy to think, “Let’s get it done fast.” But diapering can be a powerful time for connection, #language, and healthy habits—especially for infants and #to... Diapering as a learning moment: connection, language, and hygiene
National Mulligan Day
10/14/2022National Mulligan Day...or the Day of Second Chances Ever feel like results are unfair and you want a do-over? There is a national day in honor of second chances. It is called National Mulligan Day - celebrated every October 17th. Understanding what it means to be fair and understanding when a do... National Mulligan Day
Cultural responsiveness in child care: inclusive routines and materials
01/19/2022What is cultural responsiveness in child care (in simple words)? Cultural responsiveness is when we use what we #learn about children and families—their #languages, traditions, and daily life—to care for them better and teach them better. It is not about doing one “ #cultur... Cultural responsiveness in child care: inclusive routines and materials
Demystifying the Online MSDE Basic Health and Safety Course
05/20/2025In Maryland, the State Department of Education (MSDE) #plays a critical role in setting standards and providing resources to uphold this commitment. Among these vital resources is the MSDE Basic Health and Safety Training, often available online. This essential course is more than just a regulatory ... Demystifying the Online MSDE Basic Health and Safety Course
