Extensive research has shown us that children’s earliest experiences build the foundation that affects them for the rest of their lives. Parents are their children’s first and best caregivers and teachers during these early years, but they sometimes struggle with...
Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics and national partners declared a national emergency in child and adolescent mental health. This declaration focused on the profound growth of mental health hazards associated with the global pandemic, including disruptions...
Note: The School Readiness Tax Credit program ended with the 2021 tax year. First Five Nebraska is exploring legislation to reinstate the tax credits to provide these important financial supports for child care providers. Our Step-by-Step Guides can help you plan your...
During the past legislative session, Chairman of the Nebraska Legislature’s Appropriations Committee Senator John Stinner introduced LR390, an interim study to examine the fiscal and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Nebraska’s early childhood workforce and...
Mariah Stowe, a Lincoln child care provider, testified on LR390 before the Legislature's Appropriations Committee on the tough decisions facing child care professionals during COVID-19.
At a recent Appropriations Committee hearing, TMCO CEO Diane Temme Stinton testified on LR390, an interim study assessing the fiscal impact of COVID-19 on Nebraska's early childhood workforce and early care and education system.
FFN's Elizabeth Everett tesified at a legislative hearing for LR390 this week, along with experts from the Nebraska Early Childhood Workforce Commission, the state’s early childhood system, business and child care.
The 106th Nebraska Legislature adjourned sine die August 13. Here's an overview and summary of bills affecting early childhood policy from this year's session.
Here's FFN's breakdown of how $20 million in federal funds resulting from passage of the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic will be used to stabilize and strengthen Nebraska's child care infrastructure and other school-based education services for children.
The state has temporarily eased or suspended certain licensing and regulatory procedures governing child care as a result of the coronavirous pandemic, including paying providers who accept the child care subsidy for enrollment rather than attendance.
Learn the latest news from Governor Pete Ricketts on the current public health emergency.
Stay current on the latest news from state senators.