We have compiled a comprehensive listing of resources and articles on the topic of early childhood education and care as well as links and information on area resources for parents of young children (birth to five).
- Central Michigan 2-1-1, is a searchable database of local community service agencies with detailed information about programs, eligibility, and contact information. If you need help locating health and human service visit the Central Michigan 2-1-1 Center website, or dial 211 from any landline phone.
- Born Learning, a public engagement campaign to turn everyday moments into fun learning opportunities.
- The Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC) is dedicated to serving and advancing the interests of young children in Michigan, and provides research-based information to guide policy and program decision making so that every child has an equal opportunity to succeed in school and in life.
- LIKE us on Facebook! – Stay connected with news and information on early childhood education by visiting our Facebook page.
- Great Start to Quality helps link parents and those caring for young children with the resources, supports and services needed to give Michigan children a Great Start. Every licensed and registered program and provider, including Head Start and Great Start Readiness Programs, is listed in an easy-to-use search engine. Families can search by Zip code, hours of operation or something even more specific. For example, if a child has a food allergy or special need, families can search using those that detail to find a program that meets their needs.The Great Start to Quality star ratings show how programs and providers scored on a quality rating scale. This rating scale was designed by experts and parents to help families find the highest quality setting to support their child for success in school and life. Other resources available include a Child Care Checklist in the Parent Toolkit that is easily printed or viewed on any device, and licensing reports that show inspections, violations and corrections.
- Healthcare 4 MI is a website that has the on-line combined application for health care insurance programs – MIChild, Healthy Kids, Plan First, and MOMS. Provides immediate eligibility determination at end of on-line application process.
- Michigan Helping Hand assists citizens facing economic hardship find the services they need. Five tabs have links to information about jobs and training, unemployment benefits, health care, family support and housing. Click on the particular link that describes the help you’re seeking.
- Michigan’s Children is the only statewide independent voice working to ensure that public policies are made in the best interest of children from cradle to career and their families. Our emphasis is on influencing public policies that close equity gaps and ensure that the children and youth who face the most challenges have the supports they need to succeed in school and life
- Parent Resource Guide – A directory of community resources serving young children (birth to five) and their families divided into six sections: Prenatal Education; Parenting Classes; Parent Support Groups; Parenting Resources; Home Visitation; and Parent-Child Activities. Each program listing includes program description contact information and website links.
- Raising of America – The Raising of America is the first national, fully integrated media/public engagement project that aims to reframe the way Americans look at early child health and development.
- The Michigan League for Public Policy is a nonpartisan policy institute dedicated to economic opportunity for all. The League annually releases the Kids Count in Michigan Data Book.