Why Early Childhood Matters…
The first 5 years of life are critical for brain development. During this time, children build the cognitive, language and social skills that shape their future success in school and in life.
Supporting Little Learners
— and the Grown-Ups Who Love Them —
Across Eagle, Garfield, Lake,
and Pitkin Counties
Since 1997, our Council has been bringing people together around a shared goal: giving young children and their families the strong start they deserve. What began as a response to community challenges — from childcare and education to housing and healthcare — has grown into a collaborative effort to strengthen early care and learning across our region.
One of the ways we make this happen is by blending state, local, and foundation funding to support the programs families rely on most. This includes big initiatives like Colorado Shines Quality Improvement and Universal Preschool, which help providers elevate the quality of care and expand opportunities for little learners. These successes reflect the heart of our work: teaming up with families, educators, and partners to build a healthier, more connected early childhood system for everyone.
Resources for Providers and Families
Helpful tools and resources for families and providers — all in one place to support young learners and the people who care for them.
Provider
Resources
Information about coaching funding, training, and more
Family & Caregiver Resources
Finding childcare, Universal Preschool and resources
Grants & Scholarships
Available funding and current grant opportunities
Meetings & Workgroups
Building a stronger Early Childhood System together
Growing Impact Across Our Mountain Communities
Here’s a glimpse into the impact we’re creating together — and how RMECC shows up for families, educators, and young children every single day.
The Power of Colorado’s Early Childhood Councils
Through collaboration and coordination, Colorado’s 36 Early Childhood Councils help create a seamless system of care that increases access to high-quality early childhood services for families statewide.
Inclusion
We pursue equity by seeking out diverse options and creating belonging
Mission-Driven
We focus relentlessly on doing what is right for young children, families, and early childhood professionals
Professional
We elevate standards and supports for ourselves and the early childhood workforce
Advocacy
We promote social awareness and lift up community voices to create positive impact and opportunities for children
Compassion
We lead with our hearts, sustaining a focus on empathy for all individuals affected by our work
Team
We collaborate actively, operate transparently, and respect different points of view
Upcoming Events
Professional Development
Implementing Robust Guidance Policies
Apr 14, 2026
9:00 am
For: Directors, Coaches
Policy and Advocacy
Policy & Advocacy Meeting
Apr 14, 2026
4:00 pm
LCO Advisory
RMECC LCO Advisory Committee Meeting
Apr 15, 2026
1:00 pm
Executive Committee
Executive Committee Meeting
Apr 24, 2026
9:00 am
Policy and Advocacy
Policy & Advocacy Meeting
Apr 28, 2026
4:00 pm
Professional Development
Session 1: Big Feelings, Little Learners
Apr 29, 2026
12:30 pm
For: Teachers
Professional Development
Session 2: Big Feelings, Little Learners
Apr 29, 2026
4:30 pm
For: Teachers
Professional Development
Essential Business Practices
May 4, 2026
– May 14, 2026
6:30 pm
For: Owners, Directors
Policy and Advocacy
Policy & Advocacy Meeting
May 12, 2026
4:00 pm
Executive Committee
Executive Committee Meeting
May 15, 2026
9:00 am
Policy and Advocacy
Policy & Advocacy Meeting
May 26, 2026
4:00 pm
Suspension and Expulsion
Suspension and Expulsion Workgroup
Jun 4, 2026
11:00 am
For: Stakeholders, Providers, Policy Makers, Partners, Parents
