What is Provider Appreciation Day?
From The National Association for Family Child Care: “Provider Appreciation Day, celebrated annually on the Friday before Mother’s Day, honors the dedication and hard work of child care providers, teachers, and educators of young children. Initiated by the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) in 1995, this special day was created to express gratitude to both family child care and center-based providers. Today, it is recognized across the United States and globally as a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to those who nurture, educate, and tirelessly care for our children.”
How Can I Celebrate Provider Appreciation Day?
This year, Provider Appreciation Day is celebrated on May 9, 2025. Here are 25 ways to thank a child care provider in your life!
1. Rock their world
Say thanks to the rock stars at your child care program by transforming an ordinary rock or a stepping stone into a fun and unique memento. Decorate it with glitter, paint, and a heartfelt message.
2. Double the recognition
When you want to thank a child care provider, give them two treats and two thank you notes!
3. Thanks for the memories
Celebrate achievements by creating a scrapbook for the child care center. Include photos, drawings, and notes from the children and parents. If you’re not crafty, ask other parents to help out.
4. Say it with food
Decorate a jar of salsa for a provider who is “on fire” with their tasks or goals. Or give jelly and a thank you message to someone who always helps out in a “jam.”
5. Every day counts
Show providers you’re paying attention by recognizing their days of service to your family. For example, say, “Thank you for the {specific number of days} you have spent watching {name of child}.”
6. Coffee, anyone?
Surprise child care providers in the afternoon with a coffee break! Bring in lattes for everyone, make some cards that say “Thanks a Latte!” (or simply write this on the coffee cups), and deliver your recognition.
7. Make some noise
Download an “applause” app on your smartphone, and give your provider a spontaneous standing ovation during drop-off or pick-up. Search “applause” in your app store.
8. Recognition that sticks
Fill a pad of sticky notes with praise and thoughtful comments. Then stick them all over a provider’s door, work area, or center.
9. Serve up lunch
Recognize your heroes with a surprise lunch. Try bringing in a few large “hero” sandwiches with all the fixings.
10. Make it public
Recognize providers in front of their peers and share your appreciation on social media. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #ProviderAppreciationDay!
11. Show how much you value providers
Write your provider a check for “One Million Thanks.” Enlarge a check on a copier machine, or order one online.
12. Acknowledge the hard stuff
Every workplace has challenging situations. Reward providers who keep their cool and composure with Popsicles, ice cream, or a cold beverage.
13. On-the-spot recognition
Go to a dollar store and pick out a variety of low-cost gifts to use for on-the-spot recognition. Try to connect the item to an act. For example, a mini-flashlight for someone whose positive attitude shines in dark situations.
14. Recognize the good
Create a poster for each provider with a positive attribute for each letter in their name. For example: Pam = Patient, Attentive, and Multi-tasker.
15. Relevance matters
It’s often the thought that counts in recognition. If a provider likes rock climbing, give them a book on rock climbing with an inscription of your thanks. Or if someone is a movie buff, give a movie theater gift card.
16. Sweet treats
Bake or buy a batch of cookies or cupcakes and deliver them with a note of appreciation. Everyone loves a sweet surprise!
17. Flower power
Bring in a bouquet of flowers or a potted plant to brighten up the provider’s day and workspace.
18. Handmade cards
Have your children create handmade thank you cards. Their drawings and messages will be cherished by the providers.
19. Gift baskets
Put together a small gift basket with items like hand lotion, snacks, and a thank you note. It’s a thoughtful way to show you care.
20. Personalized mugs
Create personalized mugs with the provider’s name and a thank you message. They can use it for their daily coffee or tea.
21. Movie night
Give a provider a movie night package with a DVD or streaming gift card, popcorn, and candy. It’s a fun way to say thanks.
22. Relaxation kit
Put together a relaxation kit with items like a scented candle, bath salts, and a cozy blanket. Encourage the provider to take some time for self-care.
23. Photo collage
Create a photo collage of the children and providers at the center. Frame it and present it as a keepsake.
24. Themed days
Organize themed appreciation days, like “Superhero Day” where providers wear capes and get treated like heroes, or “Spa Day” with relaxation activities.
25. Surprise party
Plan a surprise appreciation party with decorations, snacks, and a heartfelt thank you speech. It’s a great way to celebrate the providers’ hard work and dedication.
