Denver's Early Childhood Council

FFN Tax Credit Information Session | English with Dari, Arabic, Spanish Interpretation
2025-09-18 16:30 - 18:00 (America/Denver) | Virtual
The new Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Tax Credit worth up to $1,200 is a way for the state of Colorado to financially acknowledge the crucial child care you provide. Whether you provide unpaid child care or charge for your services, you could be eligible for this valuable tax credit starting in 2026, if you meet the requirements.
Your service is the backbone of our community. Now, Colorado wants to support YOU for the vital work you do.
This credit recognizes care you give in everyday situations, such as:

Watching your grandkids so your son or daughter can work
Caring for a neighbor’s children after school
Helping a friend by providing a safe place for their little ones
Offering child care, even if you don’t charge
Charging a small fee to help cover your costs

Join us for this FREE information session.
Register here

Mindful Teaching, Meaningful Learning - Part 2 | DPP Featured Series
2025-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
Part 2 – Nurturing the Soil. This is part 2 of a 3-part Denver Preschool Program (DPP) Teacher Featured Series. During this series, we will explore the neurology of stress and deliver simple solutions to strengthen the internal capacities that help us build more resilience, increase happiness and create a sense of calm in our minds and our classrooms! Teachers will walk away from this workshop feeling revived with a handful of turn-key strategies, not simply to survive the spring, but to make it a productive and enjoyable conclusion to the school year. Part 2 will focus on creating the optimal environment for success and what gets in the way. Participants will receive a certificate of completion with the following credit category : Professional Practice (PP).
Registration link on Part 1 (September 11).

Accommodating Students & Hands on Universal Design Learning (UDL) - Session 3 | DPP Featured Series
2025-09-23 17:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
This is part 3 of a 3-part Denver Preschool Program (DPP) Teacher Featured Series. We all learn differently, but not everyone gets the support they need. This interactive workshop explores how to apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to your classroom, lesson plans, and activities. Bring your own materials to learn how to adapt them using UDL strategies. Participants will receive a certificate of completion with the following credit category : Teaching Practice (TP).
Register on part 1 of series (September 9).

Creating Inclusive Learning Environments | English
2025-09-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual
Join this dynamic virtual workshop on “Creating Inclusive Learning Environments” and explore practical strategies to support diverse learning styles and promote inclusivity in early childhood settings. Discover creative ways to ensure every child feels seen, valued, and supported. Whether you’re aiming to reach every learner or build a stronger sense of belonging, connect with fellow educators and gain tools to make your classroom a more inclusive space.
Register here

Denver CCAP Collaborative
2025-09-25 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-10-23 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Formerly called the Denver Child Care Task Force, the Denver CCAP Collaborative was founded to give Denver child care providers a voice in the community and an opportunity to meet and connect with Denver Human Services Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) staff.
The Collaborative discusses policy and funding issues that affect large and small child care programs in the Denver metro area. The group meets regularly and includes participants from child care centers, community funders, and representatives from Denver Human Services.
Topics at CCAP Collaborative meetings can include, but are not limited to:
CCAP Program and Policy Changes
Community Funding Updates
Discussion of Welfare Reform Board Agenda
TANF updates
NO SOLICITING, PLEASE
REGISTER HERE

Mindful Teaching, Meaningful Learning - Part 3 | DPP Featured Series
2025-09-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
Part 3 – Pulling Weeds and Planting Flowers. This is part 3 of a 3-part Denver Preschool Program (DPP) Teacher Featured Series. During this series, we will explore the neurology of stress and deliver simple solutions to strengthen the internal capacities that help us build more resilience, increase happiness and create a sense of calm in our minds and our classrooms! Teachers will walk away from this workshop feeling revived with a handful of turn-key strategies, not simply to survive the spring, but to make it a productive and enjoyable conclusion to the school year. Part 3 will focus on the positives, kindness, gratitude, and growth mindset. Participants will receive a certificate of completion with the following credit category : Professional Practice (PP).
Registration link on Part 1 (September 11).

Sesión Informativa Sobre el Crédito Tributario FFN | Español
2025-09-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Posner Center for International Development, 1031 33rd St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States
El nuevo Crédito Tributario para Cuidadores Familiares, Amigos y Vecinos (FFN), de hasta $1,200, es una forma en que el estado de Colorado reconoce económicamente el importante cuidado infantil que usted brinda. Ya sea que ofrezca cuidado infantil sin cobrar o que cobre por sus servicios de cuidado informales, podría ser elegible para este crédito tributario a partir del año 2026, si cumple con los requisitos.
Este crédito reconoce el cuidado que usted brinda en situaciones cotidianas como:

Cuidar a sus nietos para que su hijo o hija pueda salir a trabajar.
Cuidar a los hijos de un vecino después de la escuela.
Ayudar a un amigo o vecino ofreciendole un lugar seguro para sus pequeños.
Brindar cuidado infantil informal, incluso si no cobra por ello.
Cobrar una pequeña tarifa para ayudar a cubrir sus gastos de cuidado infantil.

Su servicio es el pilar de nuestra comunidad. Ahora, Colorado quiere apoyarle a USTED por el trabajo vital que realiza. Acompáñenos en esta sesión informativa GRATUITA para aprender mas sobre este crédito para trabajadores de cuidado infantil.
Registrese Aquí

Creación de Entornos de Aprendizaje Inclusivos | Español
2025-10-01 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual
Únete a este dinámico taller virtual sobre “Creación de Entornos de Aprendizaje Inclusivos” y explora estrategias prácticas para apoyar diversos estilos de aprendizaje y promover la inclusión en la educación infantil. Descubre formas creativas de garantizar que cada niño se sienta visto, valorado y apoyado. Ya sea que busques llegar a todos los estudiantes o fortalecer el sentido de pertenencia, conéctate con otros educadores y adquiere herramientas para hacer de tu aula un espacio más inclusivo.
Regístrate aquí

Denver Director Equity and Advocacy Professional Learning Community
2025-10-02 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Meet with other directors, teachers, and staff from our team in a monthly informal setting to discuss the current needs in the field. Be an advocate for your program while helping others by simply speaking up about what’s working, what isn’t, and what’s needed.
This is a Director’s PLC and can be used as credit toward the Director DPP Achievement Award.
Questions? Contact Dora Esparza at dora@denverearlychildhood.org.
REGISTER HERE

Start with All: Welcoming Every Child through Universal Design: DPP Teacher Featured Series | English with Arabic Interpretation
2025-10-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
This is a 3-part Denver Preschool Program (DPP) Teacher Featured Series:
Part 1 – October 6 from 6:00PM-8:00PM
Part 2 – October 13 from 6:00PM-8:00PM
Part 3 – October 20 from 6:00PM-8:00PM
This beginner-friendly introduction to Universal Design for Learning (UDL) offers early childhood educators practical tools and thoughtful reflection to support every child’s unique way of being, learning, and belonging, especially children with disabilities. Across three 2-hour sessions, participants will explore how to create calming, inclusive classroom environments (“Setting the Stage”), offer respectful and low-stigma supports in daily routines (“Little Changes, Big Impact”), and practice inclusion as a mindset rooted in empathy and flexibility (“Together is the Goal”). With takeaways like sensory-aware design, visual communication supports, and culturally responsive touches, this training empowers educators to create spaces where all children feel seen, supported, and truly included.
Register here

Indigenous Peoples' Day
2025-10-13 08:00 - 17:00
Office closed

Parent-Teacher Communication and Collaboration | English
2025-10-15 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual
Join this uplifting virtual workshop on “Parent-Teacher Communication and Collaboration” and discover practical strategies to strengthen home-school partnerships. Learn effective ways to build two-way communication, use digital tools to share updates and resources, and keep families engaged—regardless of background or schedule. Whether you’re looking to improve collaboration or find new ways to connect with parents, this workshop will offer tools and inspiration to support every child’s success.
RegISTER

EVENT CANCELED: Together for Tomorrow
2025-10-16
After thoughtful review, we have decided to cancel this year’s fundraising event so we can focus our resources where they will have the greatest impact for children, families, and early educators. While our team approached planning with care and intention, projected attendance and revenue will simply not meet our budget goals. Stewarding every dollar wisely is core to our mission and values.
We have made direct contact with all who purchased tickets to either convert your purchase to a donation or issue you a refund.
Thank you again for your continued partnership and belief in our mission. Your generosity fuels our ability to advance equitable, high-quality early childhood opportunities across our community.
We hope you will stay connected with us through our upcoming initiatives and consider supporting our impact during Colorado Gives Day on December 9 and throughout the end-of-year giving season. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more resilient early childhood system for all children and families.

Navigating Difficult Staff Dynamics in Early Childhood Settings | English
2025-10-22 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual
Challenging staff dynamics can affect all aspects of an early childhood program, from the experiences of children and families to the well-being of fellow educators and the overall functioning of the organization. In a field already facing significant financial and workforce challenges, it is especially important to foster a healthy, supportive work culture that upholds the quality of care and education for young children. Program leaders play a vital role in addressing internal team challenges in ways that are thoughtful, equitable, and aligned with the mission of early childhood education. This includes recognizing early signs of workplace strain, applying strategies to support and guide staff toward growth, and, when necessary, making difficult staffing decisions with professionalism and care.

Register here

Comunicación y Colaboración Entre Padres y Maestros | Español
2025-10-22 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual
Únete a este inspirador taller virtual sobre “Comunicación y Colaboración entre Padres y Docentes” y descubre estrategias prácticas para fortalecer las relaciones entre el hogar y la escuela. Aprende métodos efectivos para establecer una comunicación bidireccional, usar herramientas digitales para compartir actualizaciones y recursos, y mantener a las familias comprometidas, sin importar su origen o disponibilidad. Ya sea que busques mejorar la colaboración o encontrar nuevas formas de conectar con los padres, este taller te brindará herramientas e inspiración para apoyar el éxito de cada niño.
Regístrate aquí

Understanding and Supporting Toddler Behavior | English
2025-10-27 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Classroom teachers and early childhood providers will learn about social-emotional development of young children and how this impacts their strengths and challenges in a classroom environment. We will reframe the concept of “challenging behaviors” with a developmental lens. Providers will learn how to prevent common challenges proactively by supporting the developmental needs of young children. Providers will learn strategies for self-regulation, enabling them to support children with co-regulation. Participants will participate in discussion and reflection to guide their goals for their practice. Participants will receive a certificate of completion with the following credit category : Child Growth, Development, and Learning (CGDL).
Register here

Leadership That Nurtures Gen Z: DPP Director PLC Series | English
2025-10-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
This is a 4-part series:

Part 1 – October 27 6:00-8:00 PM
Part 2 – November 3 6:00-8:00 PM
Part 3 – November 10 6:00-8:00 PM
Part 4 – November 17 6:00-8:00 PM

Designed for ECE directors/owners/coaches, this 4-part workshop explores generational shifts in attitudes, beliefs, and work ethics in the workforce today. We analyze mounting research on Gen Z in ECE trends and apply our findings to our current childcare center cultures. Using self-assessment and deep discussion, we unpack our current values, beliefs, and attitudes to identify biases that impede our efforts to keep and grow Gen Z teachers. Dive into recruitment and retention practices and policies, and brainstorm new ideas and approaches that better align with shifting work ethics. Learn how to integrate anti-bias leadership and relationship-based strategies that provide a welcoming, healthy, and growth-oriented professional home for teachers of all generations.

This is a DPP Director PLC Training Series. Participants will be eligible to apply for the DPP Director PLC Training Series Awards totaling $290

Training Series facilitated by Shannon Greeley, MA, The Wheelhouse Collaborative.

Register Here

Converting a Child Care Business into a Nonprofit Organization - Is this the right step for me as an owner? | Training Series for DPP Directors and Administrators - Part 1 | English
2025-10-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
This is part 1 of a 2-part Series for DPP Directors and Administrators: Pathways to Funding in Early Childhood Education. Please make sure to register for Part 2 separately so you can attend both sessions.

Part 1- October 28 from 12:00PM-1:00PM
Part 2- November 5 from 11:00AM-12:00PM

For early learning business owners contemplating a conversion to a nonprofit organization, this decision involves weighing potential benefits against significant challenges. Studies suggest that nonprofit early learning centers may offer higher-quality care, including better caregiver wages and education, lower turnover rates, and improved child-to-staff ratios. 501c3 nonprofits can apply for public and private grants, which many foundations and government agencies restrict to charities. You can also accept tax-deductible contributions from individuals and businesses. Discover if this winning combination suits you.
Register here

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) | English
2025-10-29 19:30 - 21:30 | Virtual
Join this engaging virtual workshop on “Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)” and explore practical ways to integrate self-regulation, empathy, and resilience into daily routines. Learn simple strategies—from morning check-ins to problem-solving activities—that help children become more self-aware, empathetic, and emotionally strong. Whether you’re building your SEL toolkit or looking to inspire young learners, connect with fellow educators committed to nurturing the whole child.
Register here

Atención Plena (Mindfulness) en Ambientes Escolares de la Primera Infancia: Seire Destacada DPP | Español
2025-11-03 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual
Esta es una serie destacada de 3 partes del Programa Preescolar de Denver (DPP):

Sesión 1: Lunes 3 de noviembre, de 6:00 p.m. a 8:00 p.m.
Sesión 2: Miércoles 6 de noviembre, de 6:00 p.m. a 8:00 p.m.
Sesión 3: Lunes 10 de noviembre, de 6:00 p.m. a 8:00 p.m.

Este curso brinda a los participantes una comprensión clara de su papel en el apoyo a prácticas de mindfulness en entornos de primera infancia. Se explora la necesidad de implementar enfoques calmados y reflexivos apropiados para trabajar con niños pequeños. Los participantes descubrirán formas de incorporar la “atención plena” en la planificación del día a día.
Les participantes que asistan a las 3 sesiones de la serie podrán postularse para los Premios de Logro de DPP, con un total de $325.
Regístrate aquí

Feedback and Challenging Conversations | English
2025-11-04 13:30 - 15:00 | Virtual
Effective communication is a cornerstone of strong leadership and plays a critical role in building trust, clarity, and collaboration within teams. This session will explore key attributes of effective communication, with a focus on offering meaningful feedback and navigating challenging conversations with confidence, empathy, and professionalism.

Register here

Understanding your Students’ Sensory System | English
2025-11-04 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
This training will provide Early Childhood Education teachers with an understanding about sensory-motor development, sensory systems, as well as strategies to implement in their classroom. Participants will receive a certificate of completion with the following credit category: Child Growth, Development, and Learning (CGDL).

Register Here

Converting a Child Care Business into a Nonprofit Organization - Is this the right step for me as an owner? | Training Series for DPP Directors and Administrators – Part 2 | English
2025-11-05 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
This is part 2 of a 2-part Series for DPP Directors and Administrators: Pathways to Funding in Early Childhood Education. Please make sure to register for Part 1 separately so you can attend both sessions.

Part 1- October 28 from 12:00PM-1:00PM
Part 2- November 5 from 11:00AM-12:00PM

For early learning business owners contemplating a conversion to a nonprofit organization, this decision involves weighing potential benefits against significant challenges. Studies suggest that nonprofit early learning centers may offer higher-quality care, including better caregiver wages and education, lower turnover rates, and improved child-to-staff ratios. 501c3 nonprofits can apply for public and private grants, which many foundations and government agencies restrict to charities. You can also accept tax-deductible contributions from individuals and businesses. Discover if this winning combination suits you.
Register here

Movimiento que Educa en la Primera Infancia | Español
2025-11-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Virtual
Esta es una serie virtual de 2 partes:

Pate 1 – 5 de noviembre de 6:00PM – 7:00PM
Parte 2 – 12 de noviembre de 6:00PM – 7:00PM

Este entrenamiento destaca el movimiento como una herramienta pedagógica fundamental, inclusiva y transformadora en la educación de la primera infancia. Promueve la conciencia sobre su papel esencial en el desarrollo integral físico, cognitivo, social y emocional de niñas y niños. A través de una metodología dinámica y participativa, se ofrecen estrategias prácticas para integrar el movimiento en espacios interiores y exteriores, con adaptaciones inclusivas que promueven la equidad y evitan exclusiones por habilidades, contextos culturales o condiciones físicas. El taller invita a los y las educadoras a reflexionar sobre su práctica y a comprometerse con la creación de ambientes seguros, estimulantes y accesibles, donde todos los niños y niñas puedan participar plenamente, fortaleciendo su aprendizaje a través del cuerpo y el juego.
Regístrate aquí

Aprendizaje Socioemocional (SEL) | Español
2025-11-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual
Únete a este taller virtual sobre “Aprendizaje Socioemocional (SEL)” y explora formas prácticas de integrar la autorregulación, la empatía y la resiliencia en las rutinas diarias. Aprende estrategias sencillas —desde registros matutinos hasta actividades de resolución de problemas— que ayudan a los niños a desarrollar conciencia de sí mismos, empatía y fortaleza emocional. Ya sea que estés fortaleciendo tu enfoque en SEL o buscando inspirar a tus estudiantes, conéctate con otros educadores comprometidos con el desarrollo integral de la infancia.
Regístrate aquí

Strategies for Effective Communication With Parents | English
2025-11-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
Are you having a hard time connecting with the families you work with? Do you find yourself chasing families down just to ask a question? If you feel your communication with families could use some improvement, then this session is for you! We will be discussing different families, their workings, their needs, and the communication style that could fit them best. Get some tips, tricks, and techniques you could use to communicate with those you work with more effectively. Participants will receive a certificate of completion with the following competency: Family and Community Partnerships (FCP).

Register Here

How to Apply to Become a Nonprofit Step-by-Step Guide for Child Care | Training Series for DPP Directors and Administrators | English
2025-11-12 11:00 - 2025-12-03 12:00 | Virtual
This is a 3-part Denver Preschool Program Series “Pathways to Funding in Early Childhood Education: The How to Apply to Become a Nonprofit Step-by-Step Guide for Child Care Owners.”

Part 1- November 12 from 11:00AM-12:00PM
Part 2- November 19 from 11:00AM-12:00PM
Part 3- December 3 from 11:00AM-12:00PM
We will be skipping the last week of November due to the holidays

Join us as we walk through the entire process, from application to the IRS, the State of Colorado requirements, and building your Board of Directors. This session will include all the templates, links, and examples you will need to complete your 501c3 Application to the IRS on your own. You got this!
Register here

Play-Based and Experiential Learning: DPP Featured Series | English
2025-11-12 18:30 - 2025-12-03 20:30 | Virtual
This is a 3-part Denver Preschool Program (DPP) Featured Teacher Series:
Part 1 – November 12 from 6:30 – 8:30PM
Part 2 – November 19 from 6:30 – 8:30PM
Part 3 – December 3 from 6:30 – 8:30PM
Tap into curiosity and creativity in this engaging workshop on “Play-Based and Experiential Learning.” Discover how play fosters exploration, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Learn practical ways to create sensory-rich, inquiry-based environments—indoors or outdoors—where every child can thrive. Whether you’re drawn to nature, hands-on discovery, or inclusive practices, this session offers ideas to make learning joyful and meaningful. Connect with fellow educators and bring play to the heart of your teaching.
Register here
