MELA drives collective impact with diverse stakeholders to achieve systemic change leading to the holistic development of Mississippi children in their first 8 years of life.
The first 8 years of a child’s life are critically important.
During their first years of life, children’s brains and bodies are growing and changing rapidly. Brain development during their early years, paired with the cognitive, social and emotional skills they learn at the same time, will influence their lifelong health and success. The first 8 years of a child’s life can build the foundation for future learning, health, and economic stability.
When our children thrive, our state will thrive.
We believe that improving outcomes for children is a public issue for which everyone is responsible. The holistic development of Mississippi’s children is the single most important accomplishment we can achieve to improve the quality of life in our state.
Working together is the only way to make lasting change.
We believe that the most impactful change can happen when two things happen: first, decision-makers must engage with parents, early childhood professionals, and other community members to understand the complexities of their lives. Second, a diverse group of stakeholders – state leaders, practitioners, business leaders, subject matter experts, and more – must work together to create and implement solutions that meet the needs of children and families in Mississippi.
Latest News, Events & Resources
Recruiting Child Care Providers to Make Recommendations for a Statewide Quality Improvement System
Early education advocates and professionals recognize provider-led quality recommendations as a critical part of building a state-of-the-art child care system.
Learn Tips on the Business of Child Care from the MS Small Business Development Center
We know that childcare providers wear many hats – educator, caregiver, and often: small business owner. Running a successful small business is frequently a learning experience, and the Mississippi Small…
Register Now for Mississippi Early Learning Resources Conference!
Our first annual Shared Services conference is on Saturday, June 11, 2022 from 8:00am – 5:00pm at the Eagle Ridge Conference Center in Raymond, Mississippi. Childcare providers, directors and other…
Need to renew your MS Director’s Credential? Register now for the renewal course from MDHS!
The Mississippi Department of Human Services – Division of Early Childhood Care and Development is offering a course that childcare providers can take to renew their Mississippi Director’s Credential. The MS…
MELA launches “Leading From Strength” Empowerment Network to Promote the Professional Advancement of Women of Color
Women of color are a cornerstone of early care and education. Nationally, the field is composed mostly of women, 40% of whom are people of color. Looking past the numbers,…
Take Action: Use Our Early Childhood Development Capitol Day Resources
Find resources and videos from Early Childhood Development Capitol Day 2022