Governor Laura Kelly recently proclaimed Friday, May 9, as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), along with Child Care Aware of America, celebrates this special day on the Friday before Mother’s Day every year to recognize child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children. Child care providers are critical for child development and provide a place where children can learn, play and grow in safe and nurturing environments, allowing parents and guardians the ability to work and provide for their families.