Today is Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, a day to celebrate the child care providers in your community. Since 1996, the Friday before Mother’s Day has been celebrated as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. According to the Jefferson County Child Care Steering Committee, less than one-third of the children in America have a full-time stay-at-home parent. While COVID-19 has led to stricter guidelines for sanitation and social distancing, the importance of child care providers should not be overlooked as it has provided the ability for parents who are essential workers to continue helping their communities while their children are safely cared for. Iowa, Jefferson, and Keokuk County Early Childhood Iowa Board Member Dee Sandquist says “nurturing and responsive early care and education provides a solid foundation for children’s ongoing success.” The committee says ways to celebrate this day while social distancing can include having your child make their child care provider a special card or poster, drop off breakfast or lunch, give a gift card, or write a note.