Early Childhood

Join Footnotes, a texting club and community service through MPR News offering early childhood news, updates and information for children aged 0-5 and their caregivers. Engage with other parents/guardians and early childhood reporter Kyra Miles:
To preserve Somali language, 61 grandmothers shared lullabies they sang their babies
The “Sing Again” Somali lullaby project features 67 songs from Somali elders in Minnesota. Over two years, Marian Hassan collaborated with Somali grandmothers and the University of Minnesota to document their lullabies and create a framework for language learning and preservation.
MPR News launches ‘Footnotes’ service for caregivers of young children
MPR News is excited to announce the launch of its new messaging club, Footnotes. This service provides early childhood news updates and essential information about children aged 0-5 for their caregivers.
Marshall's labor force falls as childcare shortage climbs, population shifts
“We have folks that would be in the workforce if they had available and affordable childcare,” said Marshall Mayor Bob Byrnes. “We do have several childcare centers … but there's still a much larger need.”
New state grant aims to bring 80 new teachers into early childhood education
The Office of Higher Education awarded $950,000 in Early Childhood Family Education Teacher Shortage grants to support educators seeking licenses. Four universities will use the funds to support rural communities and students of color through scholarships and targeted recruitment.
‘Where is our friend?’ ICE surge trauma lingers for preschool kids, teachers
The flood of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents into Minnesota last winter had a lasting impact on some of the youngest Minnesotans. Classmates disappeared, teachers were tense and families scared. Those effects persist into the fall childcare season.
Minnesota eyes new approach to understand kids heading into kindergarten
The Minnesota Department of Education plans to pilot a new observation-based kindergarten assessment this fall focused on how 4- and 5-year-olds communicate, problem-solve and play.
Advocates launch Minnesota campaign for universal free childcare
Leaders of Childcare for All, a project of Faith in Minn., say they’re on a mission to build their ranks and press lawmakers for better pay for early childhood educators and more affordable and accessible childcare.
Strengthening support for foster youth in Minnesota
MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about some of the challenges foster youth face in Minnesota and what they need to feel seen, heard, valued and cared for.