Updates & Resources
The Call for Presentations is Now Open!
We’re accepting nominations for the Pyramid Model Champion Award!
We are thrilled to announce the creation of the Colorado Pyramid Model Champion Award. Through this award, we will recognize one individual or organization who demonstrates strong knowledge of and commitment to implementation and expansion of the Pyramid Model at the program, community, or state level in Colorado. Nomination period opens August 1 and closes on August 28.
T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Colorado Scholarship Program
The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Colorado Scholarship Program is a comprehensive scholarship model that provides a pathway for strengthening the early care and education workforce. Sponsoring Programs, Colorado colleges, and ECCLA partner to help our ECE workforce overcome barriers to higher education and promote quality within the Early Childhood Field.
The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Colorado Scholarship Program offers early childhood education program directors and teachers a pathway to pursue higher education. Access to scholarships for early childhood education is a critical piece to a successful professional development pathway. Learn More
Financial Support for Colorado Child Care Programs and Professionals
Child care programs – and the professionals who work in them – are essential to Colorado’s success. Yet these programs, professionals, and the families they serve are facing unprecedented challenges.
That’s why the State of Colorado is investing $271 million of federal stimulus funds to support child care programs and providers statewide and to make quality child care easier to access and afford for Colorado families.
Programs and providers may qualify for multiple opportunities and programs are encouraged to pass on some of the financial relief to enrolled families. Learn more
COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Under 5
- The FDA has authorized COVID-19 vaccines for children as young as 6 months old. Vaccines for children under 5 years of age will be available in Colorado started on Wednesday, June 22.
- Many vaccine providers are taking appointments for this age group in advance. Find a list of vaccine providers for young children, or use the map on our vaccine finder page to find a provider near you.
- Beginning June 22, all mobile vaccine clinics will have vaccines for younger children. Find an appointment at a mobile clinic.
- If you need a follow-up dose, ask about getting one at the time of your child’s vaccination. Many providers offer follow-up doses to parents/guardians along with pediatric COVID-19 vaccines.
More information on CDPHE’s page: Vaccines for children and teens | Colorado COVID-19 Updates
Early Intervention Referrals
Beginning on May 1st, all referrals, and evaluations for children under the age of 3 with developmental concerns or disabilities will be coordinated through Early Intervention Colorado. This means Administrative Unit Child Find teams (Colorado Department of Education/local school districts) will no longer accept referrals for children under age 3. This change was made to ensure equitable access and easier navigation of services for families and providers across the state.
Making a referral to Early Intervention is easier than ever.
- Complete the online referral form
- Call 833-733-3734 (833-REFER-EI)
- Email GetStartedwithEI@state.co.us
- Download the referral form and fax to 303-866-5944
- Contact your local Community Centered Board
For more information about this change in the referral and evaluation process for children under 3, please look at the frequently asked questions.
The I Matter program can connect you with a therapist for up to 6 free virtual counseling sessions (some in-person appointments available, too) that are completely confidential. Talking with someone can make you feel better. To start, click on “Youth” below to take a short survey. Be as honest as possible: your answers will help match you with the right therapist.
- If you’re 11 or younger, your parent or guardian must fill out the survey with you.
- Parents, seeking support for your child is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength.
New Child Care Immunization Policy Toolkit
Immunize Colorado has released a toolkit on immunization policy for Colorado child care programs to support child care administrators in their efforts to comply with state immunization laws and keep students and child care staff protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Specifically, the toolkit aims to help child care administrators understand Colorado’s child care entry immunization requirements and their role in implementing these requirements. Lear more
CDC Released COVID-19 Updates
Operational Guidance for K-12 School and Early Care and Education Programs to Support Safe In-Person Learning: The operational guidance can help K-12 school and ECE program administrators support safe, in-person learning for K-12 schools, and keep ECE programs open, while managing the spread of COVID-19. Based on the COVID-19 Community Levels, this guidance provides flexibility so schools and ECE programs can adapt to changing local situations, including periods of increased community health impacts from COVID-19.
Updated: May 27, 2022
Information About the Infant Formula Supply Shortage
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has created a tip sheet on finding baby formula during the shortage, and what you may safely consider if you absolutely can’t find any.
WIC Participants: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service is working with state agencies to provide flexibilities for local Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs to help families get the formula they need. Share the following resources with families who may need assistance and connect them with local WIC clinics for guidance: