Policy
Our Policy Agenda aims to advocate for equitable, culturally grounded early care and education (ECE) for Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children. This agenda is crucial for addressing systemic disparities and ensuring that Native children have the opportunity to thrive in their formative years.
Currently, Native children face significant challenges, including higher rates of poverty, limited access to quality ECE, and the lasting impacts of historical trauma. These issues contribute to educational and health disparities that hinder the potential of Native children. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach.
Download PDF or read the agenda below.
The Importance of Early Care and Education
Early care and education (ECE) is a cornerstone for individual and societal advancement, providing critical benefits during the first five years of rapid brain development. High-quality ECE nurtures cognitive and social-emotional growth, laying the foundation for future learning, improved educational success, greater earning potential, and better health outcomes.
For American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children, access to culturally appropriate and high-quality ECE is particularly crucial. These children often face unique challenges, including higher rates of poverty and limited access to educational resources. Nearly one-third of American Indian and Alaska Native children live in households below the federal poverty line, and they are at higher risk for adverse experiences in early care and learning environments.
What’s more, the legacy of historical trauma, including the forced assimilation policies and boarding school experiences, continues to affect American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities today. These traumatic events have led to intergenerational cycles of violence, abuse, and mental health challenges. Understanding and addressing this historical trauma is essential in creating supportive and effective ECE environments that respect and incorporate Indigenous cultures and identities.
Investing in ECE yields substantial returns for society as well. Children who receive quality early education are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education, ultimately contributing to a more skilled and competitive workforce. Studies show that early childhood education has at least a four to nine time return on investment per dollar. However, despite its clear benefits, access to quality ECE remains uneven, particularly in low-income regions.
ECE is not merely a preparatory phase but a critical investment in the future. By providing children with a strong foundation during their formative years, we are investing in a brighter future for our communities and cultivating well-rounded individuals who will positively contribute to society.
Disparities Facing
Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Children
Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children face unique and persistent challenges that place them at a disadvantage compared to the broader population. These disparities stem from historical injustices, systemic inequities, and underinvestment in programs that serve Native communities. Understanding these challenges is critical to crafting policies that address their needs and support their thriving.
By recognizing and addressing these disparities, we can work toward creating equitable opportunities for Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children. Policies that invest in culturally grounded, holistic approaches to early care and education, education, and community well-being are essential to closing these gaps and ensuring a brighter future for Native children.
-
Pre-ConferenceDesigning for the Future: Culturally Resonant Early Education Spaces Transforming Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Empowerment
-
Session AWe Are So Much More Than Our ACEs Scores Need help? Now That I Have Your Attention… Centering Culture and Language in Quality Recognition The Paralleled Process of Support PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Social Emotional Learning Foundations Start with SELF Uplifting Tribal Child Care in the State of Washington: Cultivating Tribal Relationships Integrating Wellness into the Workplace
-
Session BEffective Data Informed Instruction Strategies from Multimodal Educational Tools Centering Culture and Language in Quality Recognition The Paralleled Process of Support PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Social Emotional Learning Foundations start with SELF Uplifting Tribal Child Care in the State of Washington: Cultivating Tribal Relationships Tribal Sovereignty and Your CCDF Plan
-
Session CPromoting Resiliency through STEAM Effective Data Informed Instruction Strategies from Multimodal Educational Tools Using Play Intentionally to Promote Social Skills and Prevent Challenging Behaviors Behavior Has Meaning Staffing Challenges? You Need a Dream Program or Manager! Building Peer Support for Staff While Nurturing Children's Social Emotional Well-Being Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: Opening Doors to New Promises and Possibilities
-
Session DWhat's Right With You? TELI in Action: Insights from San Felipe Pueblo Weaving Approaches to Early Learning and Care with Cultural Humility for the Whole Child PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Building Peer Support for Staff While Nurturing Children's Social Emotional Well-Being The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: Opening Doors to New Promises and Possibilities Behavior Has Meaning
-
Session EFull STEAM Ahead TELI in Action: Insights from San Felipe Pueblo PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Weaving Approaches to Early Learning and Care with Cultural Humility for the Whole Child Unlocking New Horizons: Funding Opportunities in Child Care and Learning Systems The Magic of ABC-123 Behavior Change Plans Advocacy 101: Amplifying Your Voice for Tribal Child Care
-
Full ConferencePlease share your feedback on our entire conference. We use it to improve our future trainings.
-
Looking for an online agenda or mobile app?We have multiple options for keeping up-to-date on the agenda. RECOMMENDED! Download the mobile app. On the app through Spaces by Wix, you can connect with all the conference participants, download the conference materials, and more! We'll be sending updates as they come in through the app also. If you just want to see the schedule online, visit here.
-
Want to connect with your colleagues?Join the 2024 Conference Discussion! This is how we'll be communicating with you all live -- get up-to-the-minute changes in our schedule, share your stories, or even plan dinner together!
-
Looking to get around Portland?Download their neighborhood maps and dive headfirst into Portland Tourism!
-
Want to become a Member?Learn more about the benefits and join.
-
Want to join the NICCA Board?Learn more and apply to join our Board of Directors.
-
Meet Our SponsorAt the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, we believe in nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. Our culturally grounded early childhood education programs provide a safe, enriching environment where children can explore, learn, and grow, while staying connected to the rich traditions of the Potawatomi Nation. We offer care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, providing a supportive foundation for their early learning journey.
-
Like the Chocolate?They are from Bedre Chocolates from the Chickasaw Nation -- and you can have them delivered to your home!
-
Visit the Vendors!Stay tuned!
-
Continuing Education TrackerDo you need continuing education hours? You have two ways to get your hours. Choose only one option, please! Fill out our online Continuing Education Tracker (refillable throughout the week!) Fill out the form in the conference program, rip it out, and return it to us. Give us 2-3 weeks to process your hours and we'll send you a transcript of your sessions.
By The Numbers
546
Tribes served by
Tribal CCDF
575,452
American Indian/Alaska Native children under 13 years of age
264
Tribal CCDF Grantees serving over 500 Tribes
598
millions of dollars allocated annually for Tribal CCDF
50
Integrated CCDF Plans in PL 102-477
76
millions of dollars being used for infrastructure growth
Policy Goals
1
Secure equitable funding for Tribal ECE programs.
Native children face significant disparities in access to quality early care and education (ECE) due to underfunded Tribal programs. Nearly one-third of American Indian and Alaska Native children live in households below the federal poverty line, limiting their access to essential educational resources. Additionally, Tribal communities often receive less per capita investment in ECE compared to other populations.
Ensure Parity in Federal Funding: Advocate for funding formulas that address the unique needs of Tribal communities, including geographic isolation and culturally specific programming.
Increase CCDF Allocations for Tribes: Push for increases in the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) to better support Tribal ECE systems.
Support Integration, Braiding, and/or Cost Allocating of Funding Streams: Advocate for policies that allow Tribal programs to integrate and braid multiple funding sources, such as Head Start, Early Head Start (HS/EHS), Early Head Start-Child Care Partnerships (EHS-CCP), Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV), and Tribal Early Learning Initiatives (TELI). This approach ensures efficient use of resources, reduces administrative burdens, and supports comprehensive service delivery.
Cultural Integration: Promote policies that require culturally appropriate practices throughout all aspects of ECE including curricula, developmental screenings, and early intervention services that are rooted in Tribal values, languages, and traditions.
Streamline Services for Efficiency: Advocate for the alignment and streamlining of federal and Tribal early childhood programs to simplify service delivery, eliminate duplication, and ensure seamless support for families.
Support Comprehensive Services: Advocate for integrated approaches addressing physical, social-emotional, cognitive, and cultural development in early childhood programs.
Encourage Collaboration Across Programs: Promote strengthening of ECE services through partnerships between Tribal child care programs, HS/EHS, EHS-CCP, MIECHV, TELI, and other initiatives to deliver a coordinated and holistic system of care for Native children and families.
2
Promote holistic early care and education systems
Native children often lack access to culturally appropriate ECE programs that support their holistic development. Many Native communities face barriers to implementing comprehensive ECE systems that address physical, social-emotional, cognitive, and cultural development. This lack of culturally relevant education can lead to disengagement and lower academic achievement.
3
Strengthen the early childhood workforce
There is a shortage of qualified ECE professionals in Tribal communities, exacerbated by low wages, limited professional development opportunities, and housing challenges. This shortage impacts the quality and stability of ECE programs, hindering the development of Native children.
Recruitment, Training, and Retention: Advocate for financial incentives, loan forgiveness, and professional development opportunities to attract and retain Native professionals in ECE. Tailor training programs to meet the unique needs of Tribal communities and prioritize culturally relevant approaches.
Livable Wages and Benefits: Promote policies that ensure competitive wages and comprehensive benefits for ECE professionals to enhance workforce stability and quality.
Address Housing Challenges: Support affordable housing solutions, such as subsidies, stipends, and partnerships with Tribal housing authorities, to alleviate housing barriers for educators, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Foster Educator Well-Being: Encourage mental health resources, self-care initiatives, and culturally supportive work environments to sustain a resilient and thriving workforce.
Facility Upgrades and Construction: Advocate for continued and increased funding to build and maintain safe, modern ECE facilities in Tribal communities.
Access to Technology: Promote investments in digital infrastructure to support Tribal early learning programs with modern tools and resources.
4
Invest in infrastructure and technology
Many Tribal ECE facilities are outdated and lack modern amenities, impacting the quality of care and education provided. Additionally, limited access to technology hinders the ability of Tribal early learning programs to utilize modern tools and resources.
5
Support Tribal data sovereignty and research
Tribal communities often lack control over data related to their ECE programs and outcomes, leading to gaps in research and policy development. This lack of data sovereignty can result in policies that do not fully address the needs of Native children.
Support Tribal Data Sovereignty: Advocate for policies that allow Tribes to collect, own, and control data related to their ECE programs and outcomes.
Invest in Research on Native Early Childhood Development: Push for funding and partnerships to address gaps in research focused specifically on Native children.
Promote Culturally Appropriate Data Collection: Encourage integrating Indigenous storytelling and other culturally relevant methods into research to ensure data reflects Native communities' authentic experiences and perspectives.
Comprehensive Family Support Services: Promote policies connecting ECE programs to health care, nutrition, and housing services. Advocate for increased funding and cultural flexibility in food programs, such as the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), to better serve Native communities. Support direct Tribal access to the CACFP program as a Lead Agency. Encourage the incorporation of culturally relevant menu options in food programs to ensure that Native children receive nutritious and culturally appropriate meals.
Mental Health and Trauma-Informed Care: Advocate for funding and training for early intervention services, mental health services, and trauma-informed care in Tribal ECE settings.
6
Advocate for child and family well-being
Native children and families face numerous challenges, including food insecurity, limited access to health care, mental health services, and housing. Many Native families experience food insecurity due to geographic isolation and systemic inequities. Geographic isolation and underfunded Indian Health Service facilities limit access to quality health care, contributing to higher rates of chronic health conditions among Native children. Mental health challenges, including higher rates of suicide, are prevalent due to historical trauma. Housing instability, including overcrowded and substandard housing, further impacts children's well-being and educational stability.
7
Align and streamline federal program requirements
Tribal ECE programs often face administrative burdens due to misaligned federal program requirements. This misalignment can hinder the effective delivery of services and limit local decision-making.
Streamline Federal Program Requirements: Advocate for flexible, aligned federal programs serving Tribal children to reduce administrative burdens and support local decision-making.
Respect Tribal Sovereignty: Push for policies enabling Tribes to tailor programs to their community-specific needs.
Expand Access to ECE in Remote Areas: Advocate for targeted funding to increase access to ECE in rural and remote Tribal communities.
Support Transportation Solutions: Promote funding for transportation services to connect families in underserved areas with ECE opportunities.
8
Enhance support for remote and underserved areas
Native children in remote and underserved areas face significant barriers to accessing quality ECE. Geographic isolation and limited transportation, housing, food access, and other social service options further exacerbate these challenges.
9
Promote climate resilience and sustainability
Tribal ECE centers are increasingly affected by climate challenges, such as extreme weather and environmental hazards. These challenges can disrupt ECE services and impact the safety and well-being of Native children.
Support Environmental Adaptation: Advocate for funding to help Tribal ECE centers adapt to climate challenges, such as extreme weather and environmental hazards.
Promote Sustainable Practices: Encourage policies supporting renewable energy, sustainable building materials, and other environmentally conscious practices in ECE infrastructure.
Recommendations By Agency
Achieving equitable and culturally relevant early care and education (ECE) for Native children requires collaborative efforts at all levels of government and within Tribal communities. These recommendations outline specific actions for Congress, federal agencies, Tribes, and states to address systemic challenges, enhance service delivery, and ensure the holistic well-being of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian (AI/AN/NH) children and families.
-
Pre-ConferenceDesigning for the Future: Culturally Resonant Early Education Spaces Transforming Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Empowerment
-
Session AWe Are So Much More Than Our ACEs Scores Need help? Now That I Have Your Attention… Centering Culture and Language in Quality Recognition The Paralleled Process of Support PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Social Emotional Learning Foundations Start with SELF Uplifting Tribal Child Care in the State of Washington: Cultivating Tribal Relationships Integrating Wellness into the Workplace
-
Session BEffective Data Informed Instruction Strategies from Multimodal Educational Tools Centering Culture and Language in Quality Recognition The Paralleled Process of Support PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Social Emotional Learning Foundations start with SELF Uplifting Tribal Child Care in the State of Washington: Cultivating Tribal Relationships Tribal Sovereignty and Your CCDF Plan
-
Session CPromoting Resiliency through STEAM Effective Data Informed Instruction Strategies from Multimodal Educational Tools Using Play Intentionally to Promote Social Skills and Prevent Challenging Behaviors Behavior Has Meaning Staffing Challenges? You Need a Dream Program or Manager! Building Peer Support for Staff While Nurturing Children's Social Emotional Well-Being Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: Opening Doors to New Promises and Possibilities
-
Session DWhat's Right With You? TELI in Action: Insights from San Felipe Pueblo Weaving Approaches to Early Learning and Care with Cultural Humility for the Whole Child PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Building Peer Support for Staff While Nurturing Children's Social Emotional Well-Being The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: Opening Doors to New Promises and Possibilities Behavior Has Meaning
-
Session EFull STEAM Ahead TELI in Action: Insights from San Felipe Pueblo PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Weaving Approaches to Early Learning and Care with Cultural Humility for the Whole Child Unlocking New Horizons: Funding Opportunities in Child Care and Learning Systems The Magic of ABC-123 Behavior Change Plans Advocacy 101: Amplifying Your Voice for Tribal Child Care
-
Full ConferencePlease share your feedback on our entire conference. We use it to improve our future trainings.
-
Looking for an online agenda or mobile app?We have multiple options for keeping up-to-date on the agenda. RECOMMENDED! Download the mobile app. On the app through Spaces by Wix, you can connect with all the conference participants, download the conference materials, and more! We'll be sending updates as they come in through the app also. If you just want to see the schedule online, visit here.
-
Want to connect with your colleagues?Join the 2024 Conference Discussion! This is how we'll be communicating with you all live -- get up-to-the-minute changes in our schedule, share your stories, or even plan dinner together!
-
Looking to get around Portland?Download their neighborhood maps and dive headfirst into Portland Tourism!
-
Want to become a Member?Learn more about the benefits and join.
-
Want to join the NICCA Board?Learn more and apply to join our Board of Directors.
-
Meet Our SponsorAt the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, we believe in nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. Our culturally grounded early childhood education programs provide a safe, enriching environment where children can explore, learn, and grow, while staying connected to the rich traditions of the Potawatomi Nation. We offer care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, providing a supportive foundation for their early learning journey.
-
Like the Chocolate?They are from Bedre Chocolates from the Chickasaw Nation -- and you can have them delivered to your home!
-
Visit the Vendors!Stay tuned!
-
Continuing Education TrackerDo you need continuing education hours? You have two ways to get your hours. Choose only one option, please! Fill out our online Continuing Education Tracker (refillable throughout the week!) Fill out the form in the conference program, rip it out, and return it to us. Give us 2-3 weeks to process your hours and we'll send you a transcript of your sessions.
-
Pre-ConferenceDesigning for the Future: Culturally Resonant Early Education Spaces Transforming Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Empowerment
-
Session AWe Are So Much More Than Our ACEs Scores Need help? Now That I Have Your Attention… Centering Culture and Language in Quality Recognition The Paralleled Process of Support PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Social Emotional Learning Foundations Start with SELF Uplifting Tribal Child Care in the State of Washington: Cultivating Tribal Relationships Integrating Wellness into the Workplace
-
Session BEffective Data Informed Instruction Strategies from Multimodal Educational Tools Centering Culture and Language in Quality Recognition The Paralleled Process of Support PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Social Emotional Learning Foundations start with SELF Uplifting Tribal Child Care in the State of Washington: Cultivating Tribal Relationships Tribal Sovereignty and Your CCDF Plan
-
Session CPromoting Resiliency through STEAM Effective Data Informed Instruction Strategies from Multimodal Educational Tools Using Play Intentionally to Promote Social Skills and Prevent Challenging Behaviors Behavior Has Meaning Staffing Challenges? You Need a Dream Program or Manager! Building Peer Support for Staff While Nurturing Children's Social Emotional Well-Being Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: Opening Doors to New Promises and Possibilities
-
Session DWhat's Right With You? TELI in Action: Insights from San Felipe Pueblo Weaving Approaches to Early Learning and Care with Cultural Humility for the Whole Child PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Building Peer Support for Staff While Nurturing Children's Social Emotional Well-Being The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: Opening Doors to New Promises and Possibilities Behavior Has Meaning
-
Session EFull STEAM Ahead TELI in Action: Insights from San Felipe Pueblo PAX Training - Part 1 & 2 Weaving Approaches to Early Learning and Care with Cultural Humility for the Whole Child Unlocking New Horizons: Funding Opportunities in Child Care and Learning Systems The Magic of ABC-123 Behavior Change Plans Advocacy 101: Amplifying Your Voice for Tribal Child Care
-
Full ConferencePlease share your feedback on our entire conference. We use it to improve our future trainings.
-
Looking for an online agenda or mobile app?We have multiple options for keeping up-to-date on the agenda. RECOMMENDED! Download the mobile app. On the app through Spaces by Wix, you can connect with all the conference participants, download the conference materials, and more! We'll be sending updates as they come in through the app also. If you just want to see the schedule online, visit here.
-
Want to connect with your colleagues?Join the 2024 Conference Discussion! This is how we'll be communicating with you all live -- get up-to-the-minute changes in our schedule, share your stories, or even plan dinner together!
-
Looking to get around Portland?Download their neighborhood maps and dive headfirst into Portland Tourism!
-
Want to become a Member?Learn more about the benefits and join.
-
Want to join the NICCA Board?Learn more and apply to join our Board of Directors.
-
Meet Our SponsorAt the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, we believe in nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. Our culturally grounded early childhood education programs provide a safe, enriching environment where children can explore, learn, and grow, while staying connected to the rich traditions of the Potawatomi Nation. We offer care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, providing a supportive foundation for their early learning journey.
-
Like the Chocolate?They are from Bedre Chocolates from the Chickasaw Nation -- and you can have them delivered to your home!
-
Visit the Vendors!Stay tuned!
-
Continuing Education TrackerDo you need continuing education hours? You have two ways to get your hours. Choose only one option, please! Fill out our online Continuing Education Tracker (refillable throughout the week!) Fill out the form in the conference program, rip it out, and return it to us. Give us 2-3 weeks to process your hours and we'll send you a transcript of your sessions.