News
ECE Professionals Must Submit TEACH Scholarship Application for Spring By November 13
Early childhood education professionals interested in attending college for the 2027 spring semester should apply for the TEACH scholarship by Friday, November 13.
Tip of the Week: Be Inclusive and Respectful During Holidays
As holiday celebrations approach, remember that every family has different traditions, beliefs, and comfort levels, said Dominique Webster-Outten, ELRC Region 5’s health and safety coach.
Child Mind Institute Resources Discuss How Youths Can Remain Safe at Parties
The Child Mind Institute has put together a list of resources to help youths remain safe while attending parties and avoid making decisions they will regret.
How Dramatic and Pretend Play Help Children to Build Language, Social-Emotional Skills
In a recent series of resources, the Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) discusses how dramatic play helps children to build language and social-emotional and problem-solving skills while making learning joyful.
APOST Toolkit Offers Resources for OST Providers Implementing Evaluation Practices
Allegheny Partners for Out-of-School Time (APOST) recently released a free, online resource known as the OST Evaluation Toolkit that is designed to be a hub of tools for out-of-school time (OST) providers implementing evaluation practices.
Confluence Podcast Discusses How OCDEL Can Help Providers with Compliance
A new episode of the Confluence podcast discusses how Pennsylvania’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) can support child care providers with compliance and other challenges.
Safety Tips for Trick or Treaters on Halloween
To learn the best methods for Halloween safety, the Pennsylvania Insurance Department and UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh have put together lists of safety tips.
Reduction in Document Requirements for PA Director Credential to Take Effect in January
A reduction in the number of documents required for the Pennsylvania Director Credential will take effect in the new year, Pennsylvania’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) said.
Providers Should Update Staff Registry to Apply for 2026-27 Recruitment and Retention Award
Pennsylvania’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) is asking qualified providers planning to apply for the 2026-27 Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Award to update their staff registry information as soon as possible.