Today is provider appreciation day

  • Published
  • By Youth Services Staff
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Today's child care providers are the world's unsung heroes. In this demanding economy, more mothers are working than ever before and as a result, more children require either full- or part-time child care. It is estimated that of the 21 million children under the age of 6 in the United States, 13 million are in child care at least part-time. An additional 24 million school-age children also are in some form of child care outside of school time. 

Air Force Services Family Member Programs make a difference in the lives of the active-duty military and civilian members not just here at Malmstrom, but worldwide, by providing childcare and quality programs and services in the Child Development Center, Family Child Care homes and Youth Programs. They assist personnel and their families in balancing the competing demands of family life and the military mission. 

Family Member Programs enhance and support children and youth's physical, social, emotional and intellectual development. The Child Development Center provides center-based care in a safe and nurturing environment for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age. 

Family Child Care homes provide in-home care by licensed providers who offer daily, nightly, weekend and unusual hours of care for children ages 2 weeks to 12 years. Youth Programs provide a wide variety of services and activities for youth ages 5 to 18 including before and after school care, summer day camp, instructional classes, youth sports and fitness, and teen programs. 

Child Care organizations nationwide have joined together to declare today as National Provider Appreciation Day. Celebrated since 1996, this special day recognizes providers, teachers and educators of children everywhere. It takes a special person to work in this field and their contribution to the quality of family life is invaluable. Take a few minutes to thank your child's provider, caregiver or youth program staff members for being a special part of your child's life.