New Service Aims to Reduce Child Care Suspensions, Expulsions of Children with Special Needs

A new prevention-based, consultative service at Child Care Council Inc. will help ensure children with disabilities have access to quality child care.

Child Care Council’s special needs consultation service will equip caregivers with strategies and supports to reduce suspension and expulsion for young children with disabilities in child care. Built on relationship-based practices, the service is provided through observation, modeling and collaboration.

According to a 2018 article by the Center for American Progress, “Suspensions Are Not Support,” children with disabilities in early childhood settings represent about 13% of enrolled children but account for 75% of suspensions and expulsions. Children with autism are the most likely to be suspended or expelled, according to Child Care Council, which served 125 families who self-reported at least one child was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders between January 2016 and December 2019.

Child Care Council’s team of special needs consultants will provide a caring, compassionate, responsive and effective service to meet each program and child’s unique needs. The special needs consultation service is funded by a $175,000 grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.

The service, which does not provide 1-to-1 care to children, is available in Monroe, Wayne and Livingston counties. Child care providers interested in learning more about this service can contact Bethany Williams, special needs services supervisor, at 585.654.1287 or [email protected]

Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of vulnerable communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services. Named after a tireless advocate for immigrants, children, and the poor, the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation funds programs and initiatives across New York State that either provide direct healthcare services or address the social determinants of health. For more information, visit https://www.cabrinihealth.org/. Further information: [email protected]lth.org.

Good News for Parents and Child Care

August 30, 2022

Good news for child care! Governor Kathy Hochul today, with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, launched a statewide multi-media campaign to help ensure eligible families access child care assistance. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-launches-statewide-campaign-highlight-funding-child-care-providers-and

Child Care Subsidy Funding Available

April 4, 2022

The Workforce Development Institute’s Child Care Subsidy Facilitated Enrollment Program is providing funding for income-eligible families who reside in Monroe County and work a minimum of 25 hours per week.

Download the brochure with more information.

Refugees Can Get Assistance Starting Their Own Family Child Care Businesses, Through Federal Grant Program

February 28, 2022

Child Care Council and Urban League of Rochester partnering on local effort

Child Care Council Inc. and Urban League of Rochester, N.Y. Inc. are teaming up to help local refugees become more self-sufficient by launching and operating family child care businesses.

Grant funding from the federal Refugee Family Child Care Microenterprise Development program is designed to enable refugees who have experience caring for small children to use their child care skills to earn an income. It also helps refugees who care for their own young children, allowing them to work in their homes as it is a significant challenge to work outside of their homes.

Child Care Council is one of only nine programs across the country to receive this federal grant funding, which totals $174,310.00 annually for three years. Urban League of Rochester will assist the Council in identifying potential grantees in the city of Rochester.

“Through this program, people who have recently come to the U.S. will not only be able to provide for their own families, but they also have the opportunity to attain the American dream of opening their own business,” said Jeff Pier, CEO, Child Care Council. “Child Care Council is excited to partner with Urban League of Rochester on this project, which will create new child care programs that help strengthen the community and make up for some of the programs that were forced to closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Chantz B. Miles, division director of business development, Urban League of Rochester, said, “The business development division at the Urban League of Rochester (ULR) is excited to have this partnership with Child Care Council. The hurdles that providers have to jump through to sustain their businesses are both intimidating and difficult. This partnership between Child Care Council and the Urban League of Rochester will help our child care providers sustain, strengthen and grow their businesses. ULR is committed and dedicated to being a key role player in building and sustaining our child care provider businesses here in Monroe County.”

To be eligible for the program, refugees currently living in Monroe, Livingston or Wayne counties must have lived in the U.S. for less than five years and be interested in starting a family child care business. Child Care Council will provide training in child care and business skills, as well as assistance with applying for a child care license. Eligible individuals also will receive a cash stipend of up to $3,000 for business supplies and materials.

Refugees eligible for the program can contact Osman Hussein, Child Care Council’s multicultural support specialist, by email at [email protected]

Grant Funding to Address “Child Care Deserts” in the Finger Lakes Region

February 2, 2022

Funding will support new child care programs or expanding child care businesses
that help alleviate care shortages

New and existing child care businesses in the Finger Lakes region will have an opportunity to access grant funding to help address “child care deserts” – areas in the region with child care shortages.

Child Care Council Inc. is working with three other child care resource and referral agencies (CCR&Rs) to partner with New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to offer federal grant funding to new licensed, registered or permitted child care programs in areas of the state with low supply. OCFS is making $70 million in grant funding available statewide to new licensed, registered or permitted child care programs. These funds are part of a $100 million child care initiative approved in the 2021 Enacted Budget through the American Rescue Plan Act.

The grants will support new child care providers in creating their child care program and in recruiting, retaining and training staff to meet workforce demands. Grant recipients can also use the funding to support start-up expenses, personnel costs, general child care business expenses and staff expenses in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Additional details on eligibility and requirements of the grant can be found in the Request for Applications at https://ocfs.ny.gov/main/contracts/funding/#RFA1.

Grant applications will be accepted beginning April 11, 2022, and the application deadline is May 19, 2022. Interested child care businesses must apply on the OCFS website at https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare/deserts/. Applicants must request an application for license before grant application submission. All applicants must complete the OCFS or the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene online orientation before applying at https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare/providers/cdc-orientation.php. Once completing the orientation, applicants can request a licensing application.

Applicants needing assistance with starting child care programs can contact their county’s OCFS Regional Office (https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare/regional-offices.php) or their local child care resource and referral agency, which can help with the licensing process. Regional CCR&R offices are:

Child Care Council Inc., serving Monroe, Livingston and Wayne counties – childcarecouncil.com
Chemung County Child Care Council Inc. – chemchildcare.com
Child and Family Resources Inc., serving Ontario, Seneca, and Yates counties – cfresources.org
Pro Action Child Care Council – proactioninc.org/cca

Jeff Pier, Child Care Council CEO, said, “Child Care Council is pleased to partner with New York state to address child care shortages in Monroe, Livingston and Wayne counties. There was a care shortage in our urban and rural communities before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the pandemic simply made the crisis worse. This funding opportunity will help fill the gap for families that don’t have access to child care, while also helping new child care businesses get up and running and enabling existing providers to expand.”

Ruth A. Harvey, executive director, Chemung County Child Care Council Inc., said, “In Chemung County, we see a continued need for additional quality child care slots for children of working families, especially infant and toddler care. This funding presents the chance for expansion in current programs as well as the opportunity for new programs to help meet the demand. New York state’s vision for the expansion of quality child care slots across the entire state will benefit many children and families.”

Julie Champion, executive director, Child and Family Resources Inc., said, “We have had an ongoing need for additional quality child care slots for children of working families in Ontario, Seneca, and Yates Counties, especially in more rural areas. The need is even greater for infant and toddler care. New Child Care Desert funding provides an opportunity for new child care programs and an expansion of slots in existing child care programs. Working families, children, our communities – and New York –needs this investment.”

Margie Lawlor, director, Pro Action Child Care Council, said, “Parts of our region lack sufficient child care options for all ages, and the entire region lacks sufficient child care options for infants and toddlers. This Child Care Desert funding is a great opportunity for local providers to open or expand. With this investment, we can begin to address the child care shortages that hold parents back from fully participating in the workforce.”

Attention Employers: Introducing Vroom

September 3, 2021

Vroom is an exciting national program that supports healthy child brain development.
It shows parents how they can turn activities like bath time and mealtime into opportunities that build their children’s brains.
Child Care Council is offering several ways for you to help, such as participating in virtual lunch-and-learn events, including program information in your internal newsletters, and sharing resources with your employees.

To learn more about this free resource, contact Renee Scholz, Child Care Council, at: 585.654.1286 or email us at [email protected]

Visit the Vroom website or view a sample Vroom tip.

Child Care Council Providing Technical Assistance to Providers Seeking State Child Care Stabilization Grants

August 9, 2021

Child care providers interested in applying for a stabilization grant from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) can receive technical support and assistance from Child Care Council.

OCFS is currently accepting applications for the child care stabilization grants made available through the federal American Rescue Plan Act and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act. The goals of the grants are to provide financial relief to child care providers to help cover unexpected business costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and to help stabilize their operations so they may continue to provide care. New York state is making $1.1 billion available statewide.

Grant funds can be used for such items as personnel costs, rent, facility improvements, personal protective equipment, cleaning and sanitization supplies and services, or training and professional development related to health and safety practices. To be eligible, providers must be licensed or registered day care centers, group family day cares, school-age child care, family day care, small day care centers or enrolled legally exempt group programs.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly challenging for everyone, and it has been devastating to child care providers – many who have lost income and some who had to close their doors,” said Jeff Pier, executive director, Child Care Council. “OCFS’ child care stabilization grant is an unprecedented opportunity and investment to help child care providers who have been hurting to bounce back and continue providing quality care to children in our community. Child Care Council is available to help providers navigate through the application process.”

To streamline the application process, OCFS is offering a single online application, and the application deadline is Nov. 30, 2021. Child Care Council can assist providers who need help completing the online application. Providers can contact the Council at [email protected] or 585.654.4794.

COVID Vaccine

January 15, 2021

Registered and Licensed child care providers are now eligible to receive the COVID vaccine in phase 1B. You must go to this website to complete the eligibility form and make an appointment. There is detailed information on the site. https://covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/

NYS Child Care Advocacy Tuesdays 2021

December 15, 2020

Cares 3 Funding Available for Families

October 30, 2020

Access to affordable and safe child care is a barrier for working parents during the best of times, and even more so during a crisis. The CARES Child Care Scholarship will ensure that the children are protected and cared for as they continue to serve the public.

Parent Application:

English – https://forms.gle/Xj2Ec9AS5wq6rvSu6
Spanish – https://forms.gle/7AVngbms6kMufNrE8
Chinese – https://forms.gle/G71i6yeXnH9hGwG86

English Program Information Profile: https://forms.gle/RmVMXXcfZK1vVGCL9

Spanish Program Information Profile: https://forms.gle/4S1zcZodQLJSCH7V7

Chinese Program Information Profile: https://forms.gle/jfeuVSbZUtQFRRQGA

CARES 3 Reopening/Restructuring for Remote Learning and Temporary Operating Grant

October 1, 2020

Application

Twenty million dollars is allocated to provide grants for closed child care programs to reopen or restructure under new guidelines for social distancing. This may cover partitions, technology to support remote learning, broadband access, and cleaning and classroom supplies. An additional $28.6 million will provide grants for child day care providers to pay for half of the cost (up to $6,000) to re-open up to three classrooms in an effort to restore pre-pandemic enrollment. Temporary operating funds are phased out in the second and third months as the program’s enrollment increases.

NYForward CARES3 Statement of Grant Opportunity: Reopening-Restructuring

LICENSED AND REGISTERED CHILD CARE PROGRAMS may apply for a Reopening/Restructuring for Remote Learning Grant.

LEGALLY EXEMPT CHILD CARE PROGRAMS may apply for a Reopening/Restructuring for Remote Learning Grant. These programs are ONLY eligible for cleaning and classroom supplies.

Instruction Video

This instructional video provides a step by step walk through of the process for completing the Reopening/Restructuring for Remote Learning and Temporary Operating Grant Applications. This video is for both licensed and registered and legally exempt programs.

For more information, click here.

Welcome Back!

August 11, 2020

Dear providers,

I hope this email finds you well. I would also like to thank you for your commitment and perseverance in the last few months. Child Care Council is happy to announce we are starting to open to the community again. In September we are starting our classes, also we will start to see people in person for appointments. Classes will be scheduled and controlled and appointments will be limited and spaced out to ensure social distancing. I have attached a few guidelines for when you come into the building. Child Care Council will not allow anyone into the building unless they have an appointment and following protocol guidelines. As with all things these guidelines will be modified as things change with the virus. We will keep you posted on any changes.

Child Care Council is determined to get back to seeing each of you. To do this we need to ensure your safety and the safety of our staff.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or at 585-654-4727.

Hope to see you all soon.

Sincerely,

Jeff Pier

Federal CARES Act Funding Available for Child Care Providers

June 26, 2020

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that $65 million in federal CARES Act funding is available for child care providers statewide through the New York Forward Child Care Expansion Incentive program.

The funding available includes:
• $20 million to assist childcare program with reopening and expansion of capacity by providing materials to support a more socially distant model, and for supplies and activities associated with reopening and expansion. This may include partitions, short term rental of space, etc.

• $45 million in childcare Reopening and Expansion Incentive funds to pay for 50% of the cost of a newly opened classroom (maximum grant amount of $6,000) as an incentivize to open the classroom. The temporary funds will phase out over the second and third months as more parents bring their children back into childcare.

New York Forward Child Care Expansion Incentive and Temporary Operating Assistance Applications

The first attachment (OCFS 5450) is the application for licensed/registered child care programs
The second attachment (OCFS 5451) is the application for legally exempt programs
Both of these documents are posted on the OCFS website

Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on July 15, 2020.

Guidance Documents for Child Care

June 10, 2020

The Child Care Council, Inc. would like to share these important guidance documents created and circulated by the Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control. If we all do our part and follow these guidelines and safety requirements we will help mitigate the spread of COVID19 and other illnesses and communicable diseases.

“INTERIM GUIDANCE FOR CHILD CARE AND DAY CAMP PROGRAMS DURING THE COVID-19 PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY”: Lists recommendations and requirements based on DOH & CDC guidelines. Also includes an AFFIRMATION page you need to sign off on stating you have read and understand the NYS guidance. https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/Child_Care_Daycamps_Detailed_Guidelines.pdf

“Reopening New York, Child Care and Day Camp Program Guidelines” – This is a summary page of all of the CDC and DOH guidelines that are Mandatory VS Best Practice. Very easy to read and understand. https://ocfs.ny.gov/main/news/2020/COVID-2020Jun08-Day-Camp-Summary.pdf

“NY FORWARD SAFETY PLAN TEMPLATE” – All programs of every modality are required to complete and fill out a SAFETY PLAN for their program. This does not need to be approved by your local or state registration or licensing agency. However, it needs to be posted in your program. https://ocfs.ny.gov/main/news/2020/COVID-2020Jun08-Guidance-Reopening-Plan-Template.pdf

All programs are also required to post DOH/CDC COVID19 signage around their program space as per the guidance below:

• Responsible Parties must post signs throughout the site, consistent with DOH COVID-19 signage. Responsible Parties can develop their own customized signage specific to their workplace or setting, provided that such signage is consistent with the Department’s signage. Signage should be used to remind individuals to:

o Cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering.

o Properly store and, when necessary, discard PPE.

o Adhere to physical distancing instructions.

o Report symptoms of or exposure to COVID-19, and how they should do so.

o Follow hand hygiene and cleaning and disinfection guidelines.

o Follow appropriate respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette.

Here is a link to the CDC website where you can find and print appropriate signage to place around your program space:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-resources.html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc

Also reminding you that you must keep a “DEEP CLEANING” log to document and record how you are cleaning and disinfecting effectively throughout the course of the day. This should include sanitizing and disinfecting frequently used surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, countertops, play areas, and the bathroom.

OCFS did not come up with these rules, these are EXECUTIVE ORDERS from the GOVERNOR of NY and they must be followed. All providers are required to wear face coverings at all times they are caring for children. Refusal to follow these rules would be placing others at risk and your program out of compliance.

Thank you for your continued efforts and support throughout this challenging time

New York Forward Program Loans Available

June 7, 2020

New York Forward: Child Care Programs with fewer than 20 employees, and who did not receive funds through the Small Business Administration Loan Programs or Paycheck Protection Programs are eligible to apply for a loan through the New York Forward program.

More information and how to apply is available here.

Employer Verification Letters Required for Essential Workers to Obtain Free Child Care Scholarships

June 5, 2020

Essential workers who are eligible for free child care scholarships must get a letter verifying their employment, but that is not happening as quickly as needed.

Child Care Council Inc., a nonprofit administering the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Child Care Scholarships in Monroe, Livingston and Wayne counties, called on area employers to return the signed letters as soon as possible, to expedite the process. The pre-written letter requires an employer to simply fill in their company name, employee name, signature and date.

The Council uses the signed verification letter and other information to establish that an individual is an essential employee. Council staff also works with applicants to help identify a participating child care program or with their current registered or licensed child care provider. Eligible essential employees can apply for a scholarship by contacting Child Care Council at [email protected] or (585) 654-4720.

“During this health crisis, essential employees are doing a tremendous service to our community and often times putting their lives at risk,” said Barbara-Ann Mattle, CEO, Child Care Council Inc. “The CARES Child Care Scholarship will ensure that their children are cared for while they are at work. We just need employers to sign and return a brief letter to verify their employment.”

To qualify, families of eligible workers must have an adjusted gross income at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level, which amounts to an annual income of $78,600 for a family of four. New York state is using a portion of federal CARES Act funding to provide free child care for eligible essential workers.

Society Can Learn Much from Child Care Environments When it Comes to Racial Harmony

June 3, 2020

Child care is a place of innocence, learning and development – as well as racial harmony. Children of all colors and backgrounds play together, learn together and make friendships. They don’t pay attention to skin color.

Unfortunately, somehow that racial harmony and innocence too often gets lost among adults. The murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis is the latest in a long line of horrific examples of the racism and dehumanization of people of color that exist in our country.

Child Care Council stands against racism and racial inequality, and we very much believe that Black Lives Matter. Among our core values is the statement that, “We celebrate diversity.” We remain committed to this value, and, during this tragic time, we want to express our strong support for black children and black families in our community.

In his “I Have a Dream Speech,” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

Nearly 60 years later, we still are far from making Dr. King’s dream a reality. However, perhaps our nation can get there someday by looking at the world through a child’s eyes and by learning from the child care environment. We hope that the day will come soon when our society as a whole can be like the child care classroom, where people of all colors live, work and play together, equally and in harmony.

– Barbara-Ann Mattle, CEO
Child Care Council Inc.

Resources:
• Learn about Black Lives Matter at
• Donate to the George Floyd Memorial Fund

Child Care Council Names Jeffrey Pier Executive Director

May 22, 2020

Pier succeeds CEO Barbara-Ann Mattle, who is retiring

ROCHESTER, N.Y., May 22, 2020 – Jeffrey Pier has been named Child Care Council Inc.’s new executive director. He starts his new role on June 26.

Pier comes to Child Care Council after serving as executive director of The Healing Connection, an eating-disorder treatment program for adolescents and adults. He takes over leadership of the nonprofit agency from CEO Barbara-Ann Mattle, who is retiring effective June 30. Mattle worked to support child care development and to enhance the quality of child care, both locally and nationally, for more than 35 years.

“I look forward to the wonderful opportunity to build on the success of Barbara-Ann Mattle and the Council staff in their efforts to improve access to quality child care,” Jeffrey Pier said. “I firmly believe we can be successful through team-building and collaboration, and I will bring my passion for program development, staff collaboration and client-centered services to help meet the child care needs of our community.”

“I am extremely proud of my more than three decades of work to improve and support the development of high-quality child care programs in New York state,” Barbara-Ann Mattle said. “I want to thank the Council board of directors, leadership team and staff for their amazing work and support over the years to connect families with quality child care. I know that I am leaving the Council in great hands with Jeff Pier.”

Jeffrey Pier has years of experience working with people who have suffered through trauma, and he has seen firsthand trauma’s impact on their health and on their feelings of self-worth. Prior to leading The Healing Connection, Pier served as director of programs and services at Willow Domestic Violence Center, as regional director for the Rape Crisis Program at Planned Parenthood of Western New York – RESTORE and as program manager at St. Joseph’s Villa. A resident of Chili, Pier earned a master’s degree in public administration from Walden University and a bachelor’s degree in human service from Empire State College.

Child Care Council has an annual budget of more than $7 million, and it employs more than 50 people. The nonprofit has three offices in Rochester, Lakeville and Newark.

Council CEO Barbara-Ann Mattle Retiring After More Than Three Decades

May 19, 2020

Child Care Council Inc. CEO Barbara-Ann Mattle announced today that she is retiring after 37 years in the role, effective June 30, 2020. The Council will soon announce her successor.

During her tenure directing the Council’s operations, Barbara-Ann Mattle achieved great success in supporting child care development and in enhancing the quality of child care, both locally and nationally. She helped build Child Care Council from an agency with a $20,000 budget and a staff of 1.5 people into the largest Child Care Resource and Referral agency in New York state, with a $7 million budget, 60 employees and offices in Monroe, Livingston and Wayne counties.

Programs and services greatly expanded under Mattle’s leadership, including New York State Family and School-Sage Child Care Program Registration and Inspection services, New York State Legally Exempt Child Care Enrollment and Inspection, an early childhood professional library, and a Repurpose and More Store. Mattle also facilitated the Region II New York State Regional Infant/Toddler Resource Center in nine counties; the New York State Pyramid Model program; the USDA Child and Adult Food Programs sponsorship, and the Eat Well/Play Hard nutrition program in eight counties.

Other program accomplishments included launching a Special Needs service, multilingual interpretation and support services (Spanish, Swahili, Arabic and Urdu), and a nine-county Infant/Toddler Childhood Mental Health Consultation service. Child Care Council also became one of only 10 sites across the country selected to participate in the Vroom project, a partnership with the Bezos Family Foundation and Child Care Aware of America designed to strengthen the relationship between child care providers and families by focusing on brain-building language and tools

“I am extremely proud of my more than three decades of work to improve and support the development of high-quality child care programs in New York state,” Barbara-Ann Mattle said. “We accomplished a great deal on behalf of area children and families, child care providers and early educators, working with the Council board of directors, leadership team and staff. I want to thank each of them for their amazing work and support over the years to improve access to child care and to connect families with quality child care.”

A nationally recognized expert in the child care field, Mattle has earned numerous awards, including the Notable Women in Human Services Hall of Fame and The Human Services Council of New York’s 2020 Strong Nonprofits Leader Award; the Rochester Business Journal’s 2019 Icon Honors award; 2018 National Family Child Care Organization Family Child Care Accreditation Project of the Year; the Family Child Care Association of New York State’s 2018 Friend of Family Child Care Award; and 2017 RIT Alumnus of the Year. She has also made national presentations on topics, from how to operate a child care center, to career options and child care center financial management.

Mattle is a certified accredited facilitator and an accredited observer trainer from the National Family Child Care Association, a certified trainer in eco-friendly child care, a SUNY-certified New York State Health and Safety trainer. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from Rochester Institute of Technology, her child care certificate from St. John Fisher College, and her certificate in child care center facility design from Harvard and Tufts University.

Child Care Council Launches New Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Service

May 8, 2020

Child Care Council Inc. is launching a new prevention-based, consultative service to help ensure long-term improvement in infant and children’s mental health.

The Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) service is designed to equip caregivers with strategies and supports to strengthen children’s social, emotional, and behavioral health development – early and before intervention is needed. Based on relationship-based practices, it also employs skill- and relationship-building efforts with the adults in a child’s life.

Child Care Council’s team of mental health professionals will work with child care programs to provide a caring, compassionate, responsive and effective experience to meet their programs’ individual needs. The Council’s program is part of a statewide model of quality infant toddler mental health consultation.

“IECMHC will have a positive impact on the long-term mental health of infants and toddlers,” said Barbara-Ann Mattle, CEO, Child Care Council Inc. “Through consultations between our mental health professionals and child care providers, we aim to strengthen and support children’s social and emotional development, which are vital for school readiness and for success later in life.”

The service is available in Monroe, Wayne, Livingston, Seneca, Ontario, Chemung, Steuben, Schuyler and Yates counties. Child care providers interested in learning more about this consultative service can contact Rose Shufelt, director of the Council’s Health and Social Emotional Wellness department, at 585.654.4740 or [email protected]

CDA Gold Standard Awarded to Child Care Council Inc.

May 6, 2020

Child Care Council Inc. is the newest recipient of the prestigious CDA Gold Standard following a quality review of their training and student services by the Council for Professional Recognition (the Council). The CDA Gold Standard is part of the Council’s early childhood education effort to help CDA students find the high-quality training and student services they need in preparation for the CDA exam and a career as an early childhood educator.

“Child Care Council is honored to earn the CDA Gold Standard,” said Kristin Perrone, director of professional development and Region II Infant Toddler Resource Center, Child Care Council Inc. “This recognition demonstrates the quality of our in-person and online training programs to give child care providers the tools and information they need to succeed in early childhood education. We share the online program honor with our valuable partner, Cypherworx.”

Earning the CDA Gold Standard is recognition that Child Care Council Inc. successfully demonstrated that its early childhood education training is based on the Council’s three industry-leading principles of:

Alignment with the CDA formal education coursework found in the CDA’s Eight Subject Areas.
Sound business policies and practices.
Quality student services that meet their educational and professional needs.

“We believe that the Council’s CDA Gold Standard award adds value and integrity to the early childhood profession by verifying connections between the Council’s proven teacher competencies and the quality of training resources available to CDA students,” said Valora Washington, chief executive officer, Council for Professional Recognition.

In addition to offering high-quality training, CDA Gold Standard applicants must provide evidence that they serve the CDA student community with excellence, which includes professional development that prepares students for successful completion of their training program.

“It’s exciting to think about the many young children, families, and communities that will benefit from the high-quality education and training students will receive from Child Care Council Inc., a CDA Gold Standard organization,” Washington added.

About The Council for Professional Recognition
For more than 30 years, the Council for Professional Recognition has been the leader in promoting improved performance and recognition of professionals in the early childhood education of children ages zero to 5 years old. The Council recognizes and credentials professionals who work in all types of early care and education settings – Head Start, pre-k, infant-toddler, family child care, and home visitor programs. As a non-profit agency, the Council sets policies and procedures for assessment and credentialing, including the CDA® and the new CDA Gold Standard; publishes the industry leading training books and workbooks, including its CDA Competency Standards and Essentials textbook and workbook (2nd edition). Visit: http://www.hcdacouncil.org

Congressman Morelle Calls for Relief for Childcare Providers Impacted by COVID-19

May 4, 2020

Urges Department of Treasury to enable childcare providers to access critical funding, resources, and support through the federal CARES Act

May 4, 2020 (Rochester, NY) — Today, Rep. Joe Morelle released a letter sent to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin urging him to enable providers of childcare services and early childhood education to access critical resources and relief through the recently enacted CARES Act.

“Childcare providers are not only a critical asset to families across our community, they are the backbone of our economy,” said Congressman Morelle. “It is imperative that we take action to ensure these facilities have the resources and support they need to stay afloat during these challenging times. I urge Secretary Mnuchin to take immediate action to enable childcare providers to access the relief my colleagues and I secured as part of the CARES Act, and to prioritize the long-term support of this essential sector as we move forward.”

“Over the past 5 years, New York State lost 12,152 child care facilities. With the pandemic now, the Center for American Progress’ recent analysis estimates that roughly half of NYS child care capacity is at risk of permanently disappearing: 176,000 licensed child care slots,” said Larry Marx, CEO, The Children’s Agenda. “ While Gov. Cuomo has rightly designated child care an ‘essential business,’ and the CDC’s recommendations for reopening state that ‘the first priority is to reopen community settings where children are cared for,’ the President and Congress have yet to act with the funding necessary to ensure child care remains an option for families going back to work. The Children’s Agenda applauds Congressman Morelle for his leadership on the issue.”

“Child Care Council commends Congressman Morelle for continuing to be a child care champion as he clearly relates the reality of our current pandemic crisis to the survival of the child care industry,” said Barbara-Ann Mattle, CEO, Child Care Council Inc. “During this crisis, the child care system is integral to the functioning of all other essential services. It is my hope that when business returns to normal, the federal government will realize that child care as an industry is also an integral part of our country’s economy and, as such, requires ongoing support.”

The childcare sector is collapsing due to the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis — major child care providers have experienced an approximate 75% drop in attendance due to state and local stay-at-home orders, resulting in closures of about 65% of programs. In fact, some of the largest providers have experienced an 85% to 90% decline in enrollment. Without assistance, many childcare providers will be forced to close for good, leaving families with nowhere to turn and leading to a significantly slower recovery for the U.S. economy.

Essential Workers Can Obtain Free Child Care Through State Scholarships

April 24, 2020

Child Care Council Inc. to connect income-eligible workers with scholarships

During the COVID-19 crisis, income-eligible essential workers in Monroe, Livingston and Wayne counties can apply to Child Care Council Inc. for scholarships to pay the full cost of child care.

To qualify, families of eligible workers must have an adjusted gross income at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level, which amounts to an annual income of $78,600 for a family of four. Essential workers using a licensed or registered child care provider will receive a scholarship for the cost of care while New York state is on PAUSE, as long as the funds to support it are available.

This child care funding allocation for essential workers comes to the state from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which has provided New York state with $163.6 million in emergency relief to the child care system. New York state is using a portion of this funding to provide free child care for eligible essential workers.

“Child Care Council applauds Governor Andrew Cuomo and his administration for developing a plan to provide child care to essential workers at no cost,” said Barbara-Ann Mattle, CEO, Child Care Council Inc. “Access to affordable, quality child care is a barrier for working parents during the best of times, and even more so during this crisis. The CARES Child Care Scholarship will ensure that children of the essential workforce are protected and cared for as they continue to serve the community.”

Eligible essential employees can apply for a scholarship by contacting Child Care Council at [email protected] or (585) 654-4720. Council staff will contact applicants within one to two business days to gather more information and help identify a participating child care program or work with their current registered or licensed child care provider. The Council will use the gathered information, including a signed verification letter from their employer, to establish that they are an essential employee, enroll them in the CARES Child Care Scholarship and ensure that the child care program gets paid.

Parents and providers also can access more details through the following links:

Parent Application: This informs parents that the application will be considered complete once the online application is finished and the required supplemental documentation is submitted to Child Care Council. It indicates that the scholarship is currently available through May 1, 2020, and/or as long as the funding remains to support the scholarship.

For parents that currently receive subsidy from DSS to pay for child care, this scholarship can cover the parent co-pay. Parents should apply for the CARES Act Scholarship, and then contact their local Department of Social Services to get a letter stating their current co-pay.

Provider Information Profile (PIP): This Program Information Profile at the link above is an application for providers to accept CARES Scholarship recipients and payments. After completion of this profile, providers will be contacted by Child Care Council with further information about how they can participate in the program.

Updated Monroe County Subsidy Policies

April 22, 2020

Here is updated information on Monroe County subsidy policies, from the County’s website:

Attention Essential Businesses

April 2, 2020

Hundreds of child care programs remain open in Monroe, Livingston and Wayne counties during the COVID-19 crisis.

During this difficult time, the Council can help your employees meet their child care needs – through free referrals to child care programs and guidance on how best to choose a program.

Call (585) 654-4720 for more details.

CDA Renewal Amnesty Extended

March 31, 2020

The Council for Professional Recognition understands that the past few weeks have been challenging in the ECE community. You are on the frontline for executing best practices for safe and healthy learning environments during this recent health challenge. We thank you for your commitment to the community and want to provide you with ample time to renew your credential.

The Council is extending the Renewal Amnesty program to June 30th. Take time to join the thousands of Child Development Associates® who have taken advantage of this cost-effective method of recommitting to the field they love. If you are a CDA® credential holder with an expired credential as far back as January 1, 2010 you are eligible to participate.

Why Take Advantage of the CDA® Renewal Amnesty Program?

Opportunity for career advancement
Continued professional development
Reinforce your commitment to the early childhood profession
National recognition as a holder of the only competency-based early childhood credential
Cost effective renewal method: Renewal candidates pay only $125, a cost savings of $300 compared to the new candidate assessment fee of $425*.

*Note: Participants in the CDA Renewal Amnesty Program are required to apply online. No paper applications will be accepted for this program. In addition, if you have already mailed a new initial application because your credential expired, you must proceed with the initial application process.

Emergency Meal Distribution Sites in Monroe County

March 26, 2020

Below is a list of emergency meal distribution sites for youth across Monroe County. You can also view the list on the Monroe County Youth Bureau website.

Monroe-County-Youth-Emergency-Food-Distribution-Sites Download

Two Local Fresh Food Resources

Flower City Produce Inc. is putting together a package deal that’s open to the public on a pre-order basis. A box costs $25 and comes with a mix of fresh fruits and veggies for you to choose from (see below).

Pick-up is Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Flower City Produce Inc. within the Public Market (20-22 Rochester Public Market). Curbside pickup can also be arranged. Call (585) 733-7044 to order.

Good Food Collective has opened up its wholesale to the public. You can order large (or small) quantities of local produce as well as meat, cheese, yogurt, etc. They also deliver or pick up. Visit the Collective’s website for more information.

List of Products For Use Against Coronavirus

March 24, 2020

The American Chemistry Council’s Center for Biocide Chemistries has put together “a list of products that have been pre-approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use against emerging enveloped viral pathogens and can be used during the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. This product list is not exhaustive but can be used by business owners, health professionals, and the public to identify products suitable for use against COVID-19.”

The first product listed, Purell Foodservice Surface Sanitizer, has a low toxicity rating and is proven to be effective against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Follow the product’s label instructions for use.

Note: The SARS-CoV-2 virus is effectively removed with soap and water. That cleaning step is the most important step in decontaminating surfaces and hands. In sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces and using hand sanitizer, organic matter has to be removed first.

Free Online Books Available Through NYS Library and Monroe County Library System

March 21, 2020

Free online books are available through the NYS Library and the Monroe County Library System. Spectrum is offering free Wi-Fi so families with devices can connect.

– For people without library cards, they can apply for a digital card here: https://libraryweb.org/using_the_library/e-card-registration/

– Once they have their number, patrons can check out and place holds on ebooks, audios, and magazines.

NYS Library has shared that MyOn is also free during this crisis. To access: www.myon.com

Free access to Renaissance myON digital reading resources is available for students and families during the current school closures. Students who are not already reading with their own personalized accounts to the myON literacy environment can log in through a single, shared account to access this collection of curated resources.

What’s available:

– The myON digital library—which includes thousands of authentic digital books, fiction and nonfiction, covering a variety of topics and themes

– Five daily myON News articles—which are written for students by journalists and reviewed by a child psychologist for age appropriateness

These resources are available 24/7 and can be accessed on any digital device that is connected to the Internet. Books from the myON digital library can be downloaded onto mobile devices for offline reading.

How to log into myON:

1. Go to: www.myon.com and click the login button at the top of the screen

2. Enter the following information on the login page.

School name: New York Reads (begin typing and click on the school from the drop-down menu)

Username: read

Password: books

Hand Sanitizer Available From Black Button Distilling

March 20, 2020

Black Button Distilling is producing – and offering at cost – hand sanitizer for day cares, homeless shelters, and health care facilities. Requests can be made at [email protected]

COVID-19: Vroom Tips for Adding Early Learning to New Daily Routine

Early learning happens at home. Due to the impact of COVID-19 many families now spending more time at home together. We’re offering tips to add early learning into the new daily routine – and to remind parents and caregivers that YOU already have what it takes to create a bright future for your child!

Join us and share the Vroom Tip videos every Tuesday at 10am PT to help add early learning into the new daily routine. Look for tips on hand washing and things to do at home throughout the week.

We hope these resources will be helpful for you and the families you serve. Do you have other ideas for how we can help you to continue to support families? Send us a note to [email protected]

COVID-19 Guidance to Child Care Providers

March 19, 2020

Attention providers: The NYS Office of Children and Family Services has sent a letter with COVID-19 guidance. View the letter.

Important: All Council Classes Canceled and Offices Closed to Visitors

March 15, 2020

Please be advised that, due to the impact of the COVID-19 virus, all Child Care Council classes have been canceled, effective immediately (March 15, 2020). In addition, effective March 17th, all our offices will be closed to visitors and walk in customers for the immediate future. If you need assistance, staff members can be reached by email or telephone.

Visit our social media sites and website for ongoing communications.

We will provide more details on the class schedule at a later date.

Child Care Council CEO Named to Notable Women in Human Services Hall of Fame

March 10, 2020

Child Care Council Inc. CEO Barbara-Ann Mattle was named recently to the Notable Women in Human Services Hall of Fame.

The Human Services Council of New York also recognized Barbara-Ann Mattle with the 2020 Strong Nonprofits Leader Award for her work in the human services sector. The honors were part of the Human Services Council of New York’s Women’s History Month celebration of women, past and present, who have made a significant impact in human services and our communities.

“These are incredible honors to be named to the Notable Women in Human Services Hall of Fame and to receive this year’s Strong Nonprofits Leader Award,” Barbara-Ann Mattle said. “This recognition is a testament to my decades of work to improve and support the development of high-quality child care programs in New York state.”

Dine Out, Support the Council

February 5, 2020

Mark your calendars.

You can help support Child Care Council’s work simply by going out to eat. Panera in Brighton and Blaze Pizza in Henrietta will donate 20 percent of their proceeds during two upcoming evenings:

Panera
Fri, May 15, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Blaze Pizza
Friday, July 31, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Please bring in the event flyers (linked above) when you dine at either restaurant. Thank you for your support.

Safe Sitter Classes Scheduled

December 17, 2019

Child Care Council, Inc. offers the Safe Sitter® training program for young teens ages 11 and up. Learn how to stay safe when caring for young children.

Upcoming Classes (9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.):
▪ Feb. 8 – Wayne County
▪ Feb. 22, April 4 – Monroe County
▪ April 25 – Livingston County
(Class fee: $70)

Note: If you have a group of 8 or more providers – and these dates
are not convenient – please call to set up another date.

For more information, contact: Child Care Council, 585.654.4720.
To register, contact: Yolanda Reese, 585.654.4798.

Child Care Council Honors Outstanding Child Care Providers

October 25, 2019

NYS Assemblywoman Jamie Romeo Recognized as Distinguished Civic Leader of the Year and St. Ann’s Community Honored as Innovative Employer of the Year

Child Care Council Inc., a nonprofit that connects families with quality child care, recently honored child care providers with its annual Start Bright Impact Awards.

The Impact Awards are presented to providers who exemplify the critical roles that high-quality child care and early education play in the lives of young people. Provider honorees were:
– Andrea McMillian, a child care teacher at Brockport Child Development Center
– Nikki Phillips, a child care teacher at Creative Environment Children’s Learning Center in Wayne County
– Erin Roth and Kathy Smits, co-teachers at Penfield Village Nursery School
– Amy Yencer, who operates a school-age program in Mt. Morris, Livingston County

The Council also recognized New York State Assemblywoman Jamie Romeo (136th District) as its Distinguished Civic Leader of the Year for being a champion of child care issues on the state and local levels. St. Ann’s Community was honored as the Innovative Employer of the Year for providing free summer camp for its employees’ children. Michelle Dwyer and Triciajean Jones accepted the award on behalf of St. Ann’s.

Honorees received their awards at Child Care Council’s Start Bright Gala, held at Locust Hill Country Club. The event celebrates the critical importance of early education and high-quality child care in ensuring children get a bright start to the future.

Child Care Council CEO Receives RBJ’s 2019 Icon Honors Award

October 22, 2019

Child Care Council Inc. CEO Barbara-Ann Mattle was selected by the Rochester Business Journal as a 2019 Icon Honors award recipient.

Established in 2017, Icon Honors recognizes Rochester business leaders, over the age of 60, for their notable success and demonstration of strong leadership within and outside their fields. The honorees have moved their businesses and Rochester forward by growing jobs and making a difference in the community. Honorees must have a long-standing commitment to the Rochester business community and significant professional accomplishments through innovation and leadership.

Barbara-Ann Mattle has worked to support child care development and to enhance the quality of child care, both locally and nationally, for 35 years.

“I am honored and humbled to be selected to receive the RBJ’s Icon Honors award,” Barbara-Ann Mattle said. “I have worked tirelessly to improve the quality and increase the quantity of child care in our region. These efforts have included collaborating with the business community and helping new child care businesses get established.”

“This year’s Icon Honors awardees are an impressive group of leaders. They represent a level of professional achievement and community awareness and action that is truly remarkable,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, group publisher of the Rochester Business Journal. “They spark innovation and progress, in Rochester and beyond. The Rochester Business Journal is pleased to honor them.”

The Icon Honors awards were presented Dec. 9, 2019 at a reception at Genesee Valley Club in Rochester.

Child Care Council now offers online training!

October 21, 2019

We now offer self-paced, online training courses that our staff created, in addition to our in-person professional development classes. These online classes are mobile friendly, so you can take them on your computer, tablet, or phone. Visit our professional development page to enter the portal.

Class on New Required Comprehensive Background Clearances

September 26, 2019

If you are an owner or Director of a program please join us at the Child Care Council, Inc. to discuss the recent New York State Childcare changes with the Federal Background Clearances effective 9/25/19.

**Registration is required**
**No fee to attend**
** (Due to limited capacity of 75 persons, please refrain from bringing program substitutes and assistants)**

Please Contact Any Of The Below to Register

Contacts

Yolanda	Alex	Michele	Amber
(585)654-4798	(585)654-4735	(585) 654-4794	(585) 654-4730

Monroe County lowers copay multiplier to 25%

August 23, 2019

Great news for area families … Monroe County has lowered its copay multiplier from 35% to 25%. Families will now pay 25% of their income over the poverty level for a child care subsidy.

This means a family of three with an annual income of $42,660 will pay $5,195 per year for child care on average, or $110.75 per week (12.5% of their income).

Call on the Senate to Increase Child Care Funding

August 8, 2019

The House of Representatives recently voted to increase funding to the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) by $2.4 billion. We encourage you to call on the Senate to meet or exceed this amount so that more families have access to safe and affordable child care and providers are able to provide quality care with the resources they need and deserve.
Have you benefited from CCDBG dollars? Know a family or provider who has? Let your senators know!

To make this happen, we need your help! Contact your senators today to ask them to support an increase in CCDBG funding.

August Recess Action: Ask the Senate to Fund CCDBG

Council receives NYS grant

August 5, 2019

The New York State Council on Children and Families (CCF) announced that its New York State Birth Through Five Project (NYSB5) will award grants of to Child Care Council and other Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies to identify challenges and collaboratively assess their region’s child care needs.

Here’s a WROC TV story about the grant.

OCFS Providing Graco Cribs for Family-Based Providers

June 20, 2019

The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is promoting Safe Sleep in New York State. OCFS, through federal funds, has the opportunity to provide family-based child care providers a Graco Pack ‘n Play crib. Learn more.

Nominations Now Being Accepted for Start Bright Impact Awards

April 18, 2019

To recognize the critical role of high-quality child care, Child Care Council, Inc. will present its annual Start Bright Impact Awards to honor outstanding family/group family providers, legally exempt providers, child-care center and school-age program staff. Nominations can come from a parent, a child, or from another child care provider or staff member.

The awards will be given out at our Start Bright Gala on October 16, 2019. Nominate a child care provider using the form below or download a copy here.

Posts

New Service Aims to Reduce Child Care Suspensions, Expulsions of Children with Special Needs

Application

Instruction Video