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Early Childhood Education

All Early Childhood Education Content

Gardener holding a box of vegetables

SDSU Extension encourages South Dakotans to join annual Crunch Off event

September 05, 2023

The South Dakota Crunch off celebrates local produce and SDSU Extension’s Farm to School programs with a friendly interstate competition to see which state’s residents can encourage the most residents to eat local fruits and vegetables from Sept. 18 to Oct. 13.

SDSU Extension Early Childhood Field Specialist Audrey Rider reading a book to a group of four children.

Child Education

Nationally, more than 60 percent of households are dual income, resulting in an increased need for early childhood education programming.

Mother and son reading bedtime story under a blanket.

Quality Versus Quantity

Children need high-quality and truly “connected time” with their parents to feel supported and help develop social and emotional skills. Learn some expert tips for making high-quality moments with your kids.

Mother and daughter packing backpack and brown lunch bag.

Getting Ready for School!

Where did summer go? Several schools are starting soon. By taking some proactive steps, you can set yourself up for a healthy, successful start to the new school year.

Two youth biting into an ear of corn
Sep 18

South Dakota Crunch Off

The South Dakota Crunch Off is an annual statewide event to celebrate local produce and farm to school by crunching into any South Dakota grown fruit or vegetable.

Child wearing a sunhat.

Keeping Your Kids Safe in the Sun and Heat

Have you been spending lots of time in the sun this summer? Before you take off for our state's parks and lakes, consider these sun safety tips.

Two children reading a book on their lawn.

Summer Learning: Fun Ideas

Summer is almost here! Learn some tips and ideas to keep your kids' development on pace during the break by offering fun opportunities to read!

Family walking in an open, country field.

Get Your Kids Outside This Summer

Daily experiences in natural environments can have immediate and long-lasting benefits for children, including decreases in depression and anxiety. Learn some tips and ideas for getting your family outdoors this summer!

young woman standing by the oceanside with arms outstretched

Be Conscious of Your Financial Wellness

Just like going for a wellness checkup with your doctor, checking in on your financials is an important part of a well-rounded healthy lifestyle.

Dawn Johnson preparing watermelon in a school kitchen.

Benefits of Farm to School and Early Care and Education

Farm to school (F2S) programs have potential to create substantial positive impacts on an array of F2S stakeholders, including kids, schools (foodservice and education), early care and education (ECE) programs, agricultural producers, families and communities. Benefits exist in the areas of public health, economic development, education, environment, equity and community engagement.