Nonprofit invites child care directors across the region to register
Child Care of Southwest Florida is expanding its commitment to strengthening early childhood education by offering trauma-informed care training for child care program directors throughout Southwest Florida.
The upcoming course, Trauma-Informed Care for Child Care Program Directors, will begin April 18 and is designed to equip early childhood leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to better support children and families who have experienced trauma.
The multi-session, instructor-led course provides 40 hours of professional development, including classroom instruction, observation and independent assignments. Participants will learn strategies for recognizing the effects of trauma on young children, implementing supportive classroom practices and building stronger partnerships with families. Upon completion, directors can earn continuing education units and work toward a trauma-informed care endorsement for the Florida Director Credential.
Although Child Care of Southwest Florida is recognized for its high-quality early learning centers, the nonprofit organization also plays a key role in supporting the broader child care community through training, credentialing programs and professional development opportunities across the region.
“Children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re experiencing, but trauma can show up in their behavior, emotions and ability to learn,” said Chris Hansen, CEO of Child Care of Southwest Florida. “By offering trauma-informed care training to child care leaders across Southwest Florida, we’re helping ensure that additional educators beyond our team have the tools to create safe, supportive environments where every child can feel secure and ready to grow.”
Trauma-informed care focuses on helping educators recognize the signs of stress and adversity in young children and respond in ways that foster healing, resilience, and healthy development. Training also emphasizes self-care for educators and strategies for supporting staff and families within early learning programs.
By offering these courses, Child Care of Southwest Florida continues its mission of strengthening early childhood education throughout the region. In addition to operating learning centers, the organization coordinates child care training programs, administers nutrition initiatives and provides resources that support children, families and early learning professionals.
The trauma-informed care courses will be offered on various dates from April 18 through June 13 and cost $330 per person. Child care directors and early learning professionals interested in participating can learn more and register at MyFLFamilies.com/childcaretraining. For more information about the course, contact Patricia Guth at patriciag@ccswfl.org.
For more information about Child Care of Southwest Florida and its training programs, visit CCSWFL.org.
About Child Care of Southwest Florida
Child Care of Southwest Florida, Inc. (CCSWFL) is a nonprofit early childhood education provider with 10 learning centers in Lee and Hendry counties that serve more than 550 children from 6 weeks to 8 years old. A United Way Partner Agency, CCSWFL’s mission is to strengthen and enhance the lives of children, as well as their families. Each center is accredited through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Learning Leaders and is recognized as a Gold Seal Quality Care Program through the Florida Department of Children and Families. CCSWFL follows the nationally recognized, research-based Creative Curriculum, with a goal of creating safe, nurturing learning environments that develop young minds, support families, strengthen the community and secure the future. Through its participation in the USDA’s Child Food Care Program, each child has access to a healthy, nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Sponsor, volunteer and donation opportunities are available. For more information, please visit CCSWFL.org.