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Just as an experienced guide leads adventurers through uncharted territories, a coach in IdahoSTARS is your compass, navigating the seas of professional growth and development. Picture this journey as a three-step cycle, each phase seamlessly blending into the next to create a continuous loop of improvement and learning.
Your coach will help you set goals, observe your progress, and give you feedback while you reflect on your progress.
What must you pack on this journey?
· A trusting relationship
· An open mind
· Solution-focused thinking
· The ability to self-reflect
· A growth mindset transforming “aha” moments into action
· Goal writing/setting tools for accountability
· The ability to have fun and celebrate successes
Why might you want to take this journey?
· The opportunity to develop relationships
· Support in the form of resources, knowledge, and accountability
· Networking
· Increased confidence as you meet your goals
· Hands on experiences that extend typical professional development
· A better understanding of the coaching process enabling you to coach peers
· Better outcomes for children
If you want more information about the coaching journey, you can watch a brief trailer here: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/video/practice-based-coaching-overview
You can also watch more in-depth trainings about the coaching process on RISE:
· Modules 1 & 2: Introduction to Practice-Based Coaching and Collaborative Coaching Partnerships
· Module 3: Shared Goals and Action Planning
· Modules 4, 5 & 6: Focused Observation, Reflection & Feedback, & Application
With the coaching cycle as your compass and your coach by your side, may your teaching path be studded with gems of innovation, discovery, and joy. Onward to endless coaching adventures!
IdahoSTARS conducts an annual analysis of the child care workforce in the state. Our research is presented in the Statewide and Regional Workforce Reports, which provide detailed information about the demographics of Idaho's child care workforce, including race, ethnicity, gender, education, pay rate, childcare experience, education, and type of employment. We also highlight the factors that affect the child care workforce and programs, which is important information for families, businesses, and Idaho's economy.
Take some time to view the 2024 Workforce Reports below and share with others:
2023 Statewide Workforce Report
2023 Statewide Workforce Report - In Spanish
Our previous reports have covered topics such as the impact of supplemental grants on programs, the challenges faced by child care programs, and issues that contribute to the high turnover rates in the child care workforce. To access our past and regional Workforce Reports, please visit https://idahostars.org/About-Us and look under Publications.
If you have ideas about the information we could provide for future workforce reports, don't hesitate to get in touch with outreach@idahoaeyc.org.
The Local Market Rates (LMR) are the maximum monthly amounts that the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) will pay per child. The LMR is based on an analysis of private pay or unsubsidized rates of child care in Idaho based on age (infant, toddler, preschooler, and five and over) and county of active, licensed child care programs. The market rate for infants is set at 85% of maximum care for infants, 80% of the rate for toddlers, and 75% for children over 3. The rates are then broken down by the type of care (child care center or family/group care) and the amount of care (full or part-time).
The LMR survey is conducted every three years in conjunction with the Idaho State Plan. The next evaluation will begin in February 2024 and is scheduled to be implemented in October 2024. Child care program owners and directors can help ensure the market rate is accurate by updating their rates in the Program Information Review (PIR) in RISE on a regular basis.
Finding the right Pediatric First Aid/Pediatric CPR Course:
Please note:
Before your course:
After your course:
Questions? Email customersupport@idahoaeyc.org or reach out to your regional office.
The Pyramid Model is a framework that supports the social, emotional, and behavioral competence of all children in early care and education settings across Idaho (local school districts, Head Start Programs, and community early childhood education programs).
The Idaho Pyramid Collaborative brings together dedicated early childhood professionals who are passionate about creating supporting environments for children’s social and emotional well-being. This collaboration aims to provide a platform for networking, professional development, and sharing best practices among educators and caregivers.
The benefits of joining:
Application Process:
To apply, please submit the following:
Important Dates
Application Period: February 1, 2024 to April 30, 2024
Notification of Acceptance: May 31, 2024
Launch Event and Orientation: June 4, 2023, 5:30 PM PT/ 6:30 PM MT
Limited Space
Please note that space in the Idaho Pyramid Model Collaborative is limited. Due to the high level of interest anticipated, we encourage early submission of applications.
For inquiries or further information, please contact Kim Brooks at kbrooks@uidaho.edu or check out our website Idaho Training Clearinghouse > Topics > N-Z > Pyramid Collaborative (idahotc.com).
Join us in creating a positive impact on the lives of young children through the Idaho Pyramid Collaborative. Together, we can build a strong foundation for their social and emotional development.
RISE and the Child Care Search will be unavailable due to maintenance from Monday, Nov 6 at 6:00 PM until Tuesday 12:00 PM.
IdahoSTARS Badges are Back!
Earn IdahoSTARS Badges in 8 Early Childhood Education (ECE) specialty areas and receive a certificate and a $100 financial recognition (for up to two badges).
What are IdahoSTARS Badges?
Badges are a recognition of completed professional development that consists of both LEARNING (gaining knowledge of early learning content) and DOING (putting this knowledge into action). These badges follow national trends for increasing quality practices and will support the work of early care and education programs in Idaho. Each badge represents expertise in a domain or specialized area of early childhood development and care.
Why does IdahoSTARS have a Badge program?
We want IdahoSTARS Badges to provide access to professional development recognition for everyone in the ECE field in all the different ways that you choose to continue learning, improving your practice and providing consistent care. We know that you are professionals dedicated to continuous quality improvement and doing the best for children and families in Idaho. Continued training and improvement in quality practices is always worth celebrating!
How do I earn a Badge?
Each badge is awarded by earning a combination of at least 10 points through approved activities that are outlined in detail in our BADGE GUIDE. Point-earning activities include certifications, training, Targeted Technical Assistance (TTA), employment history, and/or coaching cycles. Child care professionals can earn as many of the eight badges as they choose, but each badge may be earned only once. If you earned a particular badge last year, it won’t be awarded again. To learn more about each individual badge and how to earn points, please refer to our updated BADGE GUIDE or find it in RISE Help under the PDS (Professional Development System) tile.
In which Early Childhood Education specialty areas can I earn a badge?
IdahoSTARS offers eight badges:
How is a Badge recognized?
Upon completion of required activities and an approved application, Badges are recognized by a certificate and will appear on Professional Development Records (PDR) in RISE. Additionally, providers who are eligible for incentives and have a verified PDS Level 1 or above, a $100 recognition will be awarded for up to two badges.
Why is the financial recognition a different amount this year?
The $100 per Badge recognition is a reduced amount from the last two years. Badges were previously funded by federal supplemental pandemic relief funds for child care and those funds are no longer available. The IdahoSTARS project team felt strongly that we wanted to be able to continue financial compensation for the those completing Badges. Without the federal dollars, IdahoSTARS knew that this would be difficult, however, our team managed to fit the recognition dollars into the IdahoSTARS budget at a reduced amount. We know that this financial recognition is important to you.
Am I eligible?
Any provider that has a profile in RISE and is a Level 1 or higher is eligible to apply. If your Professional Development System (PDS) level is "Level 1 unverified," upload proof of your highest education level in RISE. If you don’t have your diploma, contact PDS@idahoaeyc.org for an exemption form.
How do I apply?
Once you have completed all activities and ensured you are eligible to apply according to what is outlined in our BADGE GUIDE, click on the link below to submit an application:
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/e3027541cc7a4c46921314cdf35e103b
Questions? Look at the FAQ page at the end of the BADGE GUIDE or call 2-1-1 and ask for the IdahoSTARS training office or email trainingoffice@idahostars.org
IdahoSTARS badges recognize your expertise in early childhood education. Each badge represents a domain or specialized area of accomplishment in early childhood development. Earn points through certification, training, Targeted Technical Assistance (TTA), employment history, and/or coaching cycles. Each badge is awarded by earning a combination of at least 10 points through approved activities. Each badge is recognized by a certificate and on your Professional Development Record (PDR) in RISE.
To learn more about each individual badge and how to earn points, please refer to our updated 2022 - 2023 BADGE GUIDE.
A downloadable PDF version can be found in the RISE Help Section under the PDS (Professional Development System) tile.
To submit an application for a badge click here.
ELIGIBILITY
Any child care provider with a verified PDS level AND who is eligible for IdahoSTARS incentives is eligible for a Badge Recognition. Is your PDS Level 1 - unverified? Upload proof of your highest level of education in RISE! If you don’t have your diploma, contact PDS@idahoaeyc.org for an exemption form.
RECOGNITION
Child care providers can earn as many badges as they choose, but only one badge per domain. If you earned a particular badge last year, it won’t be awarded again. For providers who are eligible for incentives and have a verified PDS Level, a $500 recognition will be awarded for up to two badges. We've been able to offer the $500 recognitions through stabilization funds that were offered through the pandemic that will end July 1, 2023. We are happy to report, you'll still receive a recognition when badges return on October 1, 2023, but due to stabilization funding ending, that recognition will be $100 per badge.
DEADLINE
Each badge has its own specific requirements. The application will close on June 15, 2023.
BADGES FALL 2023
We've had such great success with badges that we will be bringing them back on October 1, 2023. We will use your feedback to improve our processes and procedures before the fall relaunch.
You can earn the following EIGHT badges:
Questions? Call 2-1-1 and ask for the IdahoSTARS training office or email trainingoffice@idahostars.org
You can also refer to the frequently asked questions page in the badge guide.
We want to hear your voice, so we've created a way you can provide feedback to us at anytime. On the footer of IdahoSTARS webpage, there is a link IdahoSTARS Feedback that will take you directly to our feedback page. Click on the link to share your feedback directly with our decision makers. Feedback will be compiled and shared through our newsletter every quarter. Compiled feedback will also be a standing agenda item at IdahoSTARS meetings. Help us best serve child care professionals and children in Idaho with your feedback!
Kathy Gates, BSN, RN, IMH-E®, Child Care Health Consultant
It is beneficial for adults and children to get outdoors and enjoy fresh air and the warmth of the summer sun. Active outdoor play promotes a healthy body weight, strong bones, and muscle development. There are also opportunities for social and emotional development. Outdoor activities increase the opportunity to build relationships with others. Being active outdoors can help a child reduce anxiety and irritability which will aid in the reduction of indoor challenging behaviors. With careful planning, children and staff can enjoy the outdoors while staying healthy and safe. Here are helpful tips to ensure the health and safety of the children in your care during the summer months:
SUN PROTECTION
Avoid scheduling outdoor play during the hottest part of the day. Ensure that shade is available. Instruct parents and caregivers to dress infants and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing including hats. Place infants under 6 months of age in a shady area and out of the direct sunlight. Sunscreen containing a SPF 15 or higher and UVA/UVB protection is recommended every time children and adults go outside. It is best practice to obtain written permission from parents before using sunscreen on a child. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside. It is important to prevent severe sunburns in childhood to lessen cancer risk in adulthood.
HYDRATION
Make sure all children stay well hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water. Avoid high sugar drinks. Keep kids hydrated and cool. Younger children do not regulate their body temperatures as well as adults in warmer temperatures. They become so engaged in active play that they do not always acknowledge they are thirsty. Regularly scheduled water breaks are necessary to prevent dehydration. Observe children for any sign of overheating and/or dehydration including flushed skin, fast pulse, nausea or vomiting, headache, dizziness, or confusion. Seek immediate medical care if a child exhibits symptoms of a heat-related illness.
TRANSPORTATION
When transporting children, always account for every child and NEVER leave a child in a parked car. Even when it feels cool outside, the interior temperature of a car can reach dangerous levels quickly and having a window partially open does not prevent temperatures from rising. The temperature inside a car can increase almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first 10 minutes. A child left in a parked car is at greatest risk for heat stroke and death.
PLAYGROUND SAFETY
Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 children ages fourteen and younger are patients in hospital emergency departments from playground related injuries. Falls are a common cause of injury. The most common injuries from falling off playground equipment including swings and slides are injuries to the face, head, or arms. Children require constant supervision. The playground should be age and developmentally appropriate and well-maintained. Routinely inspect the play equipment for any hazards. Remove any broken or hazardous play equipment from the play area immediately. The surface under the play equipment needs to be safe, cushioned, and well maintained. Prior to children getting on the playground, check the temperature of the equipment and surface under and around the equipment to reduce the risk of harmful burns. Ensure that the surface under the play equipment is impact absorbing and the proper depth to reduce fall injuries.
FOOD SAFETY
Perishable food that is unrefrigerated at picnics or other activities is vulnerable to bacteria that grows quickly in warm temperatures. Ensure that food is cooked thoroughly. Wash your hands often when preparing and serving food. Never leave food out for more than one hour. It is advisable to store food in a well-insulated cooler packed with ice. Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.
WATER SAFETY
Water-related activities are popular during the summer months. As with other outdoor activities, constant supervision is imperative. Drownings are the leading cause of injury deaths for young children ages 1 to 4 years. According to the CDC, three children die every day due to drowning. Often, we think of drownings occurring in swimming pools, lakes, rivers, and larger bodies of water. Insignificant amounts of standing water can contribute to drownings. For example, drownings can occur in wading pools or standing buckets of water. Caring for Our Children does not recommend the use of wading pools. Their rationale is that “portable wading pools do not permit adequate control of sanitation and safety, and they promote transmission of infectious diseases.” The use of sprinklers or hoses would be preferable to wading pools. Water tables and toys must be cleaned and sanitized. Children should wash their hands before and after any water play.
WEATHER AND AIR QUALITY
Outdoor play is advantageous for children; however, children should not go outdoors when weather conditions pose a safety or health risk. Children need protection from adverse weather events. According to Caring for Our Children, adverse weather considerations include a heat index at or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Children do not adapt to extreme temperatures because they have greater surface area-to-body mass ratio than adults. Children need protection from air pollution. Teachers should check the air quality index each day to determine if outdoor play is feasible. Poor air quality can contribute to asthma attacks and can contribute to permanent decreased lung size and function. Child Care Weather Watch is a great resource for childcare providers. This resource aids teachers in monitoring the temperature, humidity, and air quality. Facilities can sign up for EnviroFlash. This resource provides frequent air quality updates. The National Weather Service will also provide accessible forecasts and current weather conditions on mobile devices.
If you have questions or need additional information regarding Summer Safety, please contact your regional Child Care Health Consultant by dialing 2-1-1.