Early Childhood Connections (ECC)
Location: Smart Start of New
Contact:
910-815-3732
Description: Early childhood consultants work to improve and maintain high quality care and education for young children in licensed child care facilities through training, support, and grants.
Early Childhood Training
- ECC offers early childhood trainings several times each month. DCD in-service hours issued at each training.
- On-site workshops are also available. Call for more information.
- Visit our training calendar for a detailed list of trainings offered this quarter.
Community Support
ECC offers free community support to any licensed child care center or family child care home in New Hanover County. The following are many of the free services available upon request:
- Practice assessments using the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-R, ITERS-R, and FCCERS)
- Assistance with completing the Star Rated License application
- Parent handbook and personnel policy review
- Help with room arrangement
- Assistance with curriculum planning
Smart Start Resource Membership
For a small annual fee, early childhood educators working in New Hanover County can access the following resources:
Grants
ECC's Circle
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We are not accepting ECC Circle Applications at this time, please check back in the fall!
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For licensed child care centers
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Receive free training, indoor/outdoor materials, and social-emotional curriculum and support
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Download a copy of the ECC Circle Facts Sheet for more information and an application.
ECC Focus Group
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We are not accepting Focus Group Applications at this time, please check back in the fall!
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Focus groups for family childcare providers and center in a residence only
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Peer mentoring and work sessions
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Small stipend issued based on length of employment
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Download a copy of the ECC Focus Group Facts Sheet for more information and an application.