Welcome to May – the time of the year for blooming experiences and adventures. YoungStar Connect is proud to present you with a bouquet of upcoming trainings!
Want more options? Visit the YoungStar Connect training calendar. If you need training accommodations or have any questions, please email Nicole Cusimano at ncusimano@youngstarconnect.com
Did you know that providers participating in YoungStar can request a free Practice Observation for ERS? To do so, contact your YoungStar Connect Coach for more information!
NOTE: Practice Observations must be requested through coaches a minimum of 6 months before a provider’s rating due date or any time during their off-year services.
YoungStar Connect staff is currently in attendance at the Wisconsin Child Care Administrators Conference (WCCAA) and the Wisconsin Family Child Care Association (WFCCA) Early Childhood Conference! Although registration is closed for these events, we’d love to chat with you if you are present!
Thriving Wisconsin, in partnership with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Child Care Resource & Referral Network, invites child care providers to complete the “Child Care Info Review” Survey.
Your input helps capture how the early care and education system is changing across Wisconsin. By participating, you ensure your program is represented and help inform planning and future support for providers like you.
The survey is a shorter version of the annual Business Information Form (BIF) and asks about enrollment by age, provider rates, and waitlists. The full BIF will still be released in August to track trends.
As a thank you: Providers who complete the survey by May 8 will receive a $30 electronic Walmart gift card. Surveys completed May 9–31 will receive $15 (up to 3,500 providers).
Check your inbox for an email from Thriving Wisconsin with your unique survey link. (If you don’t see it, check your spam/junk folder.) The survey is open through May 31, 2026.
For questions or assistance, contact your local CCR&R.