Skip to content
YWCA Northwestern IL
YWCA Northwestern IL
Serving the needs of women in Rockford, Boone, Winnebago, Stephenson, Jo Daviess – IL since 1891
Donate
  • Who We Are
    • Mission & History
    • Board & Staff
    • YWCA Employment Opportunities Across the Country
    • Find a YW
    • News
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
  • What We Do
    • YWCA La Voz Latina
      • Our Staff
      • Access to Justice
      • Family Support Services
      • Information and Referral Services
      • YWCA Healthy Families Parent Home Visiting Program
      • Assistance with Public Benefits
      • Language Proficiency Assessments for Spanish Speakers
      • Parenting Education
      • Partner Abuse Intervention Program (PAIP)
    • Economic Empowerment
      • TechGYRLS
      • Computer Lab
    • Racial Justice & Civil Rights
      • Racial Justice Toolkit
      • Creating Community Behind Shields
    • Scholarships
    • Child Care Solutions
      • Pay for Child Care
      • Find Child Care
      • Provider Training Calendar
      • Child Care Provider Services
      • Child Care Assistance Case Support
    • Conference Center
  • How You Can Help
    • Donate Now
    • Become a Member
    • Event / Corporate Sponsors
  • Events
  • Blog
  • Who We Are
    • Mission & History
    • Board & Staff
    • YWCA Employment Opportunities Across the Country
    • Find a YW
    • News
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
  • What We Do
    • YWCA La Voz Latina
      • Our Staff
      • Access to Justice
      • Family Support Services
      • Information and Referral Services
      • YWCA Healthy Families Parent Home Visiting Program
      • Assistance with Public Benefits
      • Language Proficiency Assessments for Spanish Speakers
      • Parenting Education
      • Partner Abuse Intervention Program (PAIP)
    • Economic Empowerment
      • TechGYRLS
      • Computer Lab
    • Racial Justice & Civil Rights
      • Racial Justice Toolkit
      • Creating Community Behind Shields
    • Scholarships
    • Child Care Solutions
      • Pay for Child Care
      • Find Child Care
      • Provider Training Calendar
      • Child Care Provider Services
      • Child Care Assistance Case Support
    • Conference Center
  • How You Can Help
    • Donate Now
    • Become a Member
    • Event / Corporate Sponsors
  • Events
  • Blog
Feb26

YWCA Northwestern Illinois Welcomes Three New Board of Directors

Blog, NewsFriday February 26th, 2021

February 26, 2021 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    YWCA Northwestern Illinois Welcomes Three New Board of Directors   Rockford, IL—YWCA Northwestern Illinois has welcomed three new members to the Board of…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan25

YWCA Northwestern Illinois Extending Deadline for Applications for the 2021 Women of Achievement Awards

Blog, NewsMonday January 25th, 2021

YWCA Northwestern Illinois has extended the deadline for applications for the 2021 YWCA Women of Achievement Awards to March 1, 2021. Due to COVID-19, the Leader Luncheon event will be…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Dec8

DONATE NOW to Winnebago County Restaurant Workers Relief Fund

Blog, NewsTuesday December 8th, 2020

YWCA Northwestern Illinois has created a Winnebago County Restaurant Workers’ Relief Fund to assist those that did or continue to work in the restaurant and food services industry in Winnebago…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Dec1

YWCA NORTHWESTERN ILLINOIS RECEIVES $1 MILLION GIFT FROM PHILANTHROPIST MACKENZIE SCOTT

Blog, NewsTuesday December 1st, 2020

Rockford, IL– In an announcement made Tuesday, billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott named 384 organizations that will receive more than $4 billion in funding. Ms. Scott is a novelist, billionaire and…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Nov23

YWCA NW IL Receives Funding to Expand Implicit Bias and Cultural Competency Training for Law Enforcement

Blog, NewsMonday November 23rd, 2020

November 23, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE YWCA Northwestern Illinois Receives Funding to Expand Implicit Bias and Cultural Competency training for law enforcement in Boone and Winnebago counties The Healing Illinois…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Nov15

YWCA Scholarship Applications NOW Open

Blog, NewsSunday November 15th, 2020

November 15, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE     YWCA Now Accepting Scholarship Applications Rockford, IL  (November 15, 2020) – YWCA Northwestern Illinois is now accepting applications for the Bright Future…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May7

COVID-19 Response Funds

BlogThursday May 7th, 2020
Details
Mar17

Click Here for COVID-19 Updates & Child Care Assistance (CCAP) Application

BlogTuesday March 17th, 2020

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Mar8

Join our Women in Small Business Network Today!

BlogFriday March 8th, 2019

For women with a desire to start, sustain, or grow their child care business. You will gain: Access to industry experts through webinars, online learning modules, and face-to-face trainings Valuable…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan9

Order coffee to support YWCA!

BlogWednesday January 9th, 2019

We have a new partner! Fresh Horizons Coffee Company was founded with a commitment to give back to the community. For every online sale of Fresh Horizons Coffee products, YWCA Northwestern…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul19

Childhood Interactions

BlogThursday July 19th, 2018

Interactions build relationships through interrelating and growth. Children learn by being with others. Children learn by being involved in making choices and decisions, and by feeling in control. Learning is…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Feb27

Reading to Children Matters

BlogTuesday February 27th, 2018

Our first encounter with reading is probably when we were read to from story books as children; remember those bedtime stories? We then begin learning the alphabet, basic math, fun…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Nov7

Being Your Best YOU

BlogTuesday November 7th, 2017

Self-Care and Provider Burn Out   What does the best version of you look like?  Are you exhausted, irritable, or have a lack of motivation? When working in the early…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct17

Technology in Early Childhood

BlogTuesday October 17th, 2017

In one simple activity a child care provider can accomplish goals related to technology use, language development, and social skills. For many the debate over whether to use, or not…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug8

Giving Tuesday 2020

BlogTuesday August 8th, 2017

On December 1, 2020, the YWCA Northwestern Illinois will proudly participate in #GivingTuesday. This global day of giving invites individuals like you to celebrate the holiday season by giving back…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul5

YWCA and the Rockford Housing Authority

BlogWednesday July 5th, 2017

Getting the Word out The YWCA Northwestern Illinois continues to build partnerships throughout the community. Every month we attend “New Resident Move-in orientations” for the Rockford Housing Authority.  Childcare is…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jun13

Learning Through Play

BlogTuesday June 13th, 2017

Play is more than you think! Play gives a child the opportunity, time, and space to foster many important life skills. Engaging in play allows a child to explore different…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May30

First Annual Career-Con at Harlem High School

BlogTuesday May 30th, 2017

The 1st annual Career-Con was held at Harlem High School on April 22, 2017. The event ran from 9-1pm in the auxiliary gym and was set up as a career…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Dec13

Are You a Licensed Exempt Provider?

BlogTuesday December 13th, 2016

 Do you want to earn a higher percentage for the CCAP children in your care? This can be accomplished easily though a series of training tiers that you can take…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Dec9

Why do Toddlers Bite?

BlogFriday December 9th, 2016

Biting is very common with toddlers.  There is a lot that can be done to reduce and, ultimately, eliminate biting.  However, labeling a child a biter can intensify biting behavior…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct11

Building a Better Business!!

BlogTuesday October 11th, 2016

Building a Business Plan to Build Your Business Better!   Most providers go into the Child Care business, not because of their educational background and experience with owning a small…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct3

Meet the Merchant: TSG Designs

BlogMonday October 3rd, 2016

Wine, Women, and Purses 2016 is this Thursday, Oct. 6th!! We cannot wait to see you there! Remember today (10/3/16) is your last day to make an online reservation so…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep28

Meet the Merchant: Roxy Carmichael

BlogWednesday September 28th, 2016

We are very excited to introduce to you the lovely ladies from Roxy Carmichael! They will be joining us for the 2016 Wine, Women, and Purses event at Franchesco’s Restaurant…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep26

Meet the Merchant: Beyond the Door

BlogMonday September 26th, 2016

As you know, Wine, Women, and Purses is swiftly approaching! We would love to see you there! You may purchase tickets on our website until this Friday, 9/30/2016. We are…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep22

Meet the Merchant: Anderson Japanese Gardens

BlogThursday September 22nd, 2016

We would love the chance to introduce you to some of our merchants! We are thrilled to have Anderson Japanese Gardens participating in the 2016 Wine, Women, and Purse’s event!…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep20

September is Baby Safety Month

BlogTuesday September 20th, 2016

As caregivers, every day we care for children like they are our own children. All children deserve to grow up in a safe and healthy environment. September is “Baby Safety”…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep13

Brightwheel

BlogTuesday September 13th, 2016

Brightwheel When a parent picks up their child at the end of the day, there is a lot of information that gets exchanged. Parents want to know if their child…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug30

Meet the Merchant: Lallygag Boutique

BlogTuesday August 30th, 2016

We are thrilled to have Lallygag Boutique participating in our Wine, Women, and Purses event on October 6th at Franchesco’s Restaurant! Please take a few minutes and get to know…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug23

Meet the Merchant: Pizzazz Dezynz

BlogTuesday August 23rd, 2016

Meet Diana Alexander of Pizzazz Dezynz. We are happy to welcome Diana to the Wine, Women, and Purses community! Come check out her amazing merchandise at Wine, Women, and Purse…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug16

Picking Safer Plastics

BlogTuesday August 16th, 2016

If you think “The Graduate” when you see or hear the word “plastics” you are either of a certain generation or a fan of classic movies. Plastics have made our…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug9

Exploring Nature with Infants

BlogTuesday August 9th, 2016

Can babies play outside? Many people feel babies are too young to play outdoors. Caregivers tend to keep infants and toddlers indoors; worried that weather isn’t quite right for them.…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug2

Living Out Our Mission Statement

BlogTuesday August 2nd, 2016

Recently, Kristian Boyle, Quality Specialist, and I taught Creating Individual Professional Development Plans at Washington Park Christian Church off West State Street in Rockford, IL. Kimberly Lyons, a local 13+…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul26

To the World You May Be One Person….

BlogTuesday July 26th, 2016

As a contributing “blogger”, my assigned focus is to promote upcoming trainings/workshops that YWCA Northwestern Illinois Child Care Solutions offer. All of our trainings/workshops should result in improving the quality…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul19

Safety Recalls

BlogTuesday July 19th, 2016

How do you know if items in your home, classroom, and playground are safe? As a mom of two little girls, we have a lot of different items in our…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul12

Providers Can Benefit From Sharing Too

BlogTuesday July 12th, 2016

“I know there is strength in the differences between us. I know there is comfort, where we overlap.” –Ani DiFranco As consultants at the YWCA, our job is more than…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jun28

Dressing for Success

BlogTuesday June 28th, 2016

My older son attended a charter school for kindergarten last year that incorporated a dress code with specific parameters. The children were expected to meet a minimum standard in their…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jun21

Keeping Fun Activities Safe

BlogTuesday June 21st, 2016

Both children and adults enjoy creative art activities. When engaging in an art activity, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind to insure the fun you are experiencing…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jun14

Hand Washing: The single most important skill to teach children to preserve their health

BlogTuesday June 14th, 2016

As children grow, the skills they learn in early childhood can be the skills that can save their lives; learning how to look both ways to cross the road, to…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jun7

How Do You Connect With Other Home Providers?

BlogTuesday June 7th, 2016

The days go fast, your nights go even faster, and ‘free time’ is a past phrase. You have the huge responsibility of the wellbeing, social-emotional development, and education of young…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May31

School’s Out: Literacy Fun in the Summer Months

BlogTuesday May 31st, 2016

Summer vacation is upon us! It’s so nice to finally get to enjoy the sunshine and spend more time outside. Kids who have been actively learning in pre-and elementary schools…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May24

The Wonders of Nature: a curriculum free for the taking!

BlogTuesday May 24th, 2016

Spring has sprung! Like the earth experiencing a rebirth of sorts—trees budding, flowers blooming, grass is green and growing, we (children, child care providers, parents, people in general) want to…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May17

How to Find a Curriculum that Works for Your Program

BlogTuesday May 17th, 2016

“To ensure that young children’s experiences are developmentally appropriate, programs are expected to incorporate a comprehensive curriculum and child assessment system that are aligned with the Illinois Early Learning Guidelines…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May10

Addressing Stress – Conclusion: Childcare Provider Stress – Creating Calm

BlogTuesday May 10th, 2016

Child Care Providers….Unfortunately, the public perception of child care providers is usually to label someone who chooses this profession as a “Baby-sitter.”  As someone who has an intimate knowledge of…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
May3

Process Art: the value is in the creation

BlogTuesday May 3rd, 2016

My 3-year-old son spent the majority of his weekend sitting at the kitchen table, using a pair of blunt, plastic scissors to cut up piles and piles of old mail…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Mar21

Addressing stress part 3: parenting stress (you’re not alone)

BlogMonday March 21st, 2016

Parental stress is real and you have millions of other parents experiencing the effects on their health and well being. No matter how much we love or appreciate our children’s…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Mar21

All About ExceleRate

BlogMonday March 21st, 2016

What is ExceleRate: “ExceleRate Illinois is a statewide quality rating and improvement system designed to make continuous quality improvement an everyday priority among early learning providers. The program establishes standards…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Mar10

Workshop: Guiding Children and Youth in Your After School Program

BlogThursday March 10th, 2016

YWCA Child Care Solutions workshop: “Guiding Children and Youth Behavior in our After School Program, Controlling the Environment—Not the Child or Youth,” June 7, 2016 at YWCA Northwestern Illinois

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Mar9

Six easy ways to encourage your baby’s language development

BlogWednesday March 9th, 2016

The journey of a child’s language development begins as early as birth; and the first 12 months are an important stage of this development. Parents, grandparents, siblings, caregivers, aunt, uncles…everyone…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Feb2 imaginative play

Play is not a 4-Letter word: allowing our children to learn through play

BlogTuesday February 2nd, 2016

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” – Fred…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan28

Y We like: Vroom

BlogThursday January 28th, 2016

Since this way of life seems inevitable by many standards, parents need to be purposeful with the time they have with their children. So where can you squeeze in some…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan20 Sister and brother

Addressing stress part 2: stress & early childhood learning

BlogWednesday January 20th, 2016

External and internal forces will decide whether learning will flow easily or become a dreaded chore. Stresses from peers, such as bullying and group pressure to be a “certain way”…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan14

Setting “SMART” 2016 goals for adults and children

BlogThursday January 14th, 2016

The New Year is a time to restart any pattern that may have gone array in the past year. Children create habits just as adults do, although sometimes very different.…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan12 Free downloadable cookbook cover

Look for free downloadable cookbooks to inspire your new year menu planning

BlogTuesday January 12th, 2016

Try free downloadable resources to inspire you and curtail some of the creativity block that you may be experiencing when planning the weekly menu for your family child care family,…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jan4

Keep kids moving: 6 ideas for active play on winter days

BlogMonday January 4th, 2016

Cabin Fever. Winter Blues. We all get a little restless when the weather outside forces us to stay inside for longer lengths of time. There are times when bundling the…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Dec16 boy and dog photo

Children and animals – creating positive interactions and connections

BlogWednesday December 16th, 2015

How wonderful would it be to express out loud your deepest darkest secrets, and know that there is absolutely no judgement, nor will these secrets be shared with another? Animals…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Dec15 Sister and brother

Addressing stress part 1: the biology of stress and children

BlogTuesday December 15th, 2015

Knowing that stress has an effect on children in their learning environments means that we, as parents and providers, must be aware of and attempt to understand the powerful effects…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Nov23

Sensory play: a world of learning at your child’s fingertips

BlogMonday November 23rd, 2015

Sensory play is a great option for both independent and group activities and has great benefits for both sensory-seeking and sensory-avoidant children as a self-regulation or self-soothing tool. And if…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Nov16

Sleeping safely against SIDS: the most important thing to do under two

BlogMonday November 16th, 2015

Parents, child care providers, and well-meaning friends and relatives are all making the same fatal mistakes by putting or leaving infants and toddlers in car seats, swings, strollers and bouncers…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Nov12 Powerful Interactions, Dombro, Jablon, and Stetson

The power of “powerful interactions” in early childhood learning

BlogThursday November 12th, 2015

Encouraging very intentional and purposeful exchanges between a teacher and a child, which creates a powerful interaction and helps a child become a more engaged and effective learner.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct26 four children reading

Five low-cost/no-cost reading resources: encourage early literacy on a dime

BlogMonday October 26th, 2015

Do you know how many Pete the Cat books you can get for $25? Not nearly enough! Kids need to have a variety of books available to them… but how…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct21

The science of poverty and child development

BlogWednesday October 21st, 2015

Scientific studies have well documented the effect of a lower income environment on children’s cognitive abilities; the effects of a stressful life related to hunger, decreased access to health care,…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct16 YWCA Board of Directors

Why I am a member…and the YWCA Board Chair

BlogFriday October 16th, 2015

A guest post from YWCA Board Chair Dawna Menke As we reach out to the community and ask for membership support, members of the YWCA Board of Directors have been…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct12

Inspire dramatic play for kids – from camping trips to lunar landings

BlogMonday October 12th, 2015

Dramatic play is a fancy way of referring to pretend or imaginative play. You can establish and lead dramatic play easily with a few simple elements that will expand with…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Oct8

YWCA and La Voz Latina announce exciting changes for our future

BlogThursday October 8th, 2015

We believe in the power of the YWCA to improve our community, facilitate meaningful conversations, and drive collaboration, which is why we are proud to share to two major announcements…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep28 Leaf by Stephen Michael King

Wordless children’s books: a delightful contradiction

BlogMonday September 28th, 2015

How do you read a book with no pictures to your kids? Here are a few ways to explore wordless books to expand creativity, interest, and reading comprehension skills.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep20

Your child’s developing brain: simple lifestyle factors that affect your child’s success

BlogSunday September 20th, 2015

In the first months of life, a child’s brain development depends on human interactions through relationships with the people around them. Playing, reading, exposing your child to music, and communicating…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep16 Designs by Jeff bracelets

Meet the merchant: Designs by Jeff

BlogWednesday September 16th, 2015

Meet Jeff and Cindy Uhrig of Designs by Jeff. We look forward to working with the Uhrigs every year since their first Wine, Women & Purses in 2012. Come see…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep15 CC Rainz Jewelry

Meet the merchant: CC Rainz

BlogTuesday September 15th, 2015

Meet Christina Crain of CC Rainz, a Wine, Women & Purses favorite since 2012 and one of the merchants you’ll find at Wine, Women & Purses, October 1.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep14

What’s your Static? Leading through the state of the State…

BlogMonday September 14th, 2015

In order to address the “elephant in the room” right off the bat, we all know that working in the early childhood field is a bit stressful right now. So…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep7 provider training

Provider training: Radon—What you Should Know!

BlogMonday September 7th, 2015

On October 20, 2015, 6:30pm to 8:00pm, YWCA Rockford, Patrick Daniels, a representative of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, will present a radon workshop specifically designed for licensed day care…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Sep3

Meet the merchant: Lallygag Boutique

BlogThursday September 3rd, 2015

Lallygag Boutique is a fun little boutique in the Miracle Mile district of Rockford, IL, nestled between a shabby chic home decor shop and a flower shop. We are best…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug24 storey stones completed

Reading rocks: literacy fun with story stones

BlogMonday August 24th, 2015

There is a reason why children, after playing outside or going on a walk, return with pockets filled to capacity with rocks of different shapes and sizes. Rocks, well, rock.…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug19

Meet the merchant: Wearever Mobile Boutique

BlogWednesday August 19th, 2015

Meet the owner of Wearever Mobile Boutique, one of the merchants you’ll find at Wine, Women & Purses, October 1.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug19

Healthy lifestyles – let a child’s curiosity plan tonight’s meal

BlogWednesday August 19th, 2015

It’s 5:00 p.m. and my 2-year-old is walking out of daycare holding the cucumber she picked herself from my provider’s garden. Me: Wow, did you pick that? Her: Yeah! It’s…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug17 baby eating broccoli

Healthy lifestyles begin in early childhood – the first twelve months

BlogMonday August 17th, 2015

As the new school year approaches and we consider the flu, sore throats, lice… there is an ongoing topic that is extremely important to our children’s well-being, living a healthy…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug10 girl with daycare pet

Pets – nurturing nature beyond the common houseplant

BlogMonday August 10th, 2015

Incorporating a pet into your program can easily create or recreate the experiences of nature indoors, and reflect your own program philosophies and individuality. Center, Preschool, and Family providers can…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug4

Notice for FY16 CCAP payment – will my childcare business be paid?

BlogTuesday August 4th, 2015

What does the July 30, 2015 IDHS payment notice mean to CCAP clients and providers? CCAP Child Care Centers and networks as well as in-home providers payment and processing information.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Aug3 I Am A Girl cover image

“I Am A Girl” – the reality of being a girl in the 21st century

BlogMonday August 3rd, 2015

The basic human rights and even the economic evidence of empowering girls seem obvious; but the challenges and discrimination are often distant from an American perspective – or less obvious…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul27 four children reading

Monkey see, monkey do… monkey read: children mimic our love of reading

BlogMonday July 27th, 2015

As the Child Care Solutions Literacy Specialist, I’ve been able to help parents and child care providers use this “monkey see, monkey do” phenomenon to their advantage—as a way to…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul20 Daycare provider and children

It’s alright to be different: talking to children about diversity in our world

BlogMonday July 20th, 2015

As early childhood educators, we are expected, and for some topics mandated, to participate in trainings about diversity, culture, and inclusion. While these trainings are extremely important and help providers…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul14

Saving the Monarch, engaging children, and Growing Up WILD!

BlogTuesday July 14th, 2015

Growing Up WILD! is an early childhood education program from the Council for Environmental Education builds on children’s sense of wonder about nature and invites them to explore wildlife and…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Jul13 YWCA Leader Luncheon 2015

Women – question the status quo

BlogMonday July 13th, 2015

Not for the first time, I asked this question March 2: Why are these women – powerful, experienced, wise – virtually invisible in Rockford and Winnebago County political and organizational…

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Details
Load more
Upcoming Events
May 13

YWCA Leader Luncheon

May 13 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Leader Luncheon: Women of Achievement Leader Luncheon is the YWCA Northwestern Illinois's primary fund-raising event. Funds from the event are used to develop and expand programming and advocacies for women and families’ economic self-sufficiency with a clear commitment to the elimination of racism and the empowerment of women. Support this longstanding community event by becoming…

View More…

Child Care Solutions Events

There are no upcoming events at this time.





Subscribe to the eNewsletter
Recent News

YWCA Northwestern Illinois Welcomes Three New Board of Directors

February 26, 2021 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    YWCA Northwestern...

YWCA Northwestern Illinois Extending Deadline for Applications for the 2021 Women of Achievement Awards

YWCA Northwestern Illinois has extended the deadline for applications...

Nicole Radford and Deputy Chief Tammie Stanley Join YWCA Northwestern Illinois Board of Directors

Two New Members Elected to YWCA Board of Directors...

DONATE NOW to Winnebago County Restaurant Workers Relief Fund

YWCA Northwestern Illinois has created a Winnebago County Restaurant...

YWCA NORTHWESTERN ILLINOIS RECEIVES $1 MILLION GIFT FROM PHILANTHROPIST MACKENZIE SCOTT

Rockford, IL– In an announcement made Tuesday, billionaire philanthropist...

  • Find a Local YWCA
  • Donate
  • Contact Us
  • Employment Opportunities
  • La Voz Latina
    • Access to Justice
  • Childcare Solutions
  • Conference Center

YWCA Northwestern Illinois
4990 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108
info@ywcanwil.org
Phone: (815) 968-9681
Privacy | sitemap | YWCA USA

©2020. All rights reserved.

Translate »

You will be forwarded to the national YWCA site.

 

Proceed