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The Building Blocks Child Care Mentor Program is a personal mentoring program designed to help new child care providers learn the ins and outs of the child care business. Trained family child care providers serve as mentors to new family child care providers; offering them information, encouragement and resources.
Who is the program for?
The program is designed for new family child care providers who are working to become registered with the State of South Dakota. In some instances, providers who have been in business for a while will also qualify for the program. If you are interested, contact your local Child Care Licensing Specialist, or call 1-800-227-3020 or send an
email.
What does the program cost?
The only cost for this program in an investment of time and energy. A mentor will meet with the new child care provider, in person, up to four hours a month to work on goals set by the provider.
What does a mentor do?
The mentor assists the new provider in setting personal and professional goals for the child care business. The mentor offers tips, encouragement as well as support and also assists the new provider in establishing a professional network in learning about local community and state resources. The mentor provides useful information and equipment and is expected to guide the new provider through the registration process and expose the provider to training opportunities and professional resources.
What is the new provider expected to do?
The new provider, or mentee, maintains regular contact with the mentor. It is also expected to set business and professional goals which the mentor can assist in identifying and reaching. The provider should be willing to devote time and energy to the mentor relationship.
How long does the program last?
This is up to the mentor and the provider to determine. The mentor relationship can last a few weeks or several months. Together, the mentor and the mentee work to set goals and timelines.
How do I get more information?