In the early morning quiet, before many parents have even poured their first cup of coffee, dedicated early childhood providers are already welcoming children into classrooms, homes, and centers across our communities. In these settings — daycares, preschools, Head Start programs, and childcare centers — these caregivers are more than supervisors or teachers. They are mentors, nurturers, supporters, and, often, the adults who spend the most waking hours with young children. T