Early Childhood (EC), a section of the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), was created in July 2021 to align and focus programs and resources on a key department priority, early childhood experiences.
The purpose Early Childhood is to make a significant impact on North Dakota children and families by:
- Helping children realize their potential through quality early childhood experiences,
- Supporting the state's workforce needs with improved access to child care, and
- Aligning programs for a maximum return on investment.
Recent Early Childhood News
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Celebrating five years of growth: Lt. Gov. Strinden and state leaders tour Best in Class programs
Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 03:00 pm
Categories: AnnouncementsLt. Gov. Michelle Strinden, state legislators and representatives from North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) recently visited Best in Class early childhood programs to celebrate the initiative’s five-year milestone and see firsthand how high-quality early learning experiences are preparing children for kindergarten and beyond.
Early Childhood section team members earn national credentials for child care licensing
Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 01:00 am
Categories: AnnouncementsTwelve team members with the Early Childhood section recently earned national credentials demonstrating their commitment to high standards, best practices and responsibilities relating to child care licensing.
Changes to QRIS Bonus Amounts
Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 01:00 am
Categories: AnnouncementsStarting Sept. 1, 2025, the bonus amounts paid through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) based on child care providers’ Bright & Early ND Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) level will change.
Report a Concern
To report a concern about a child care provider, contact a Licensing Specialist in your county.
Questions? Contact Us
Early Childhood
600 E. Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 325
Bismarck, ND 58505-0250
Phone: (701) 328-2115
Toll-Free: (800) 997-8516
Relay ND TTY: 711
Email: dhsec@nd.gov