ABC Quality

Parents and providers: Children's Trust of South Carolina shares recent data on how children and families are faring in our state.

The 2026 KIDS COUNT® Data Book from the Annie E. Casey Foundation uses trusted data to show where kids are making progress — and where challenges persist — across four domains: economic well-being, education, health, and family and community.

Visit bit.ly/4e8PpxE to explore the latest data and understand what it means for our state.

☀️ Summer break is here, and SC Public Radio reminds us of important safety reminders for families.

From testing smoke alarms to safely storing medicines, small steps can help prevent serious injuries. Here are some summer safety tips from health experts.

Parents and Providers: A Reminder to Nominate a Child Care Hero Today!

Do you know a teacher in an ABC Quality-rated child care program who goes above and beyond every single day? Now’s your chance to recognize the difference they’re making!

🌟 All nominated Child Care Heroes receive a certificate and special recognition from ABC Quality.

🏆 Each month, one outstanding teacher from the Upstate, Midlands, P*e Dee, and Lowcountry will be selected as the region’s Child Care Hero of the Month!
Help us celebrate the educators who inspire, nurture, and shape the future of South Carolina’s children.

📝 Make your nomination NOW at https://bit.ly/46AnUKL and be sure to complete all sections of the nomination form to submit your hero.

📧 Questions? Email [email protected]

Let’s shine a spotlight on the heroes of early childhood education! 💛

Parents: With the school year ending ☀️, make a plan for the next one! If your child will be 4 by the start of the upcoming school year, then you can apply for First Steps 4K.

Apply now: https://bit.ly/4dQSZMR

Parents: Did you know your kids can get free, nutritious meals and snacks this summer? 🍎 They are available for all children under 18!

Across South Carolina, families can find summer meal sites in their communities, offering either on-site or to-go meals, made available through the US Dept. of Agriculture and local community organizations. 📍

To find a site near you, visit arcg.is/1Han113.

Parents: Is your child starting kindergarten this fall? 🚌 Confidently prepare them for their upcoming transition with a free guide from Family Connection of South Carolina!

The “Parents' Guide to Kindergarten Transition in South Carolina” is a practical, comprehensive resource that helps parents understand what to expect during their child’s first year of school. The guide also provides strategies for developing routines and preparing for the school environment. 🏫

Learn more and download the guide at bit.ly/3RSWYRF.

Parents: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 5 children ages 3–17 has been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral condition. While infants and toddlers are not always included in these statistics, experts agree that emotional and behavioral concerns can begin very early in life.

The good news is that early support can make a tremendous difference. Learn more in this new Leap Years blog from ABC Quality: https://bit.ly/43446gH

Parents: Do you know the ABCs of safe sleep? 🔤 This easy-to-remember acronym ensures your baby sleeps in a safe environment, whether your family is at home or on vacation! 💤

Following the ABCs of safe sleep lowers the risk of sleep-related infant death.

A: Alone - without pets, blankets or objects.
B: Back - Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
C: Crib - Use a crib, portable crib or pack and play with a flat, firm mattress and a fitted sheet.

Learn more about safe sleep from the American Academy of Pediatrics at bit.ly/41qZAqD.

How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained ​No one knows exactly what causes SIDS, so there's no guaranteed way to prevent it. However, creating a safe sleep environment can help reduce your baby's risk of SIDS. On the other hand, we do know what causes accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. This means parents can help prevent th...

Parents: Developing a healthy bond, known as a secure attachment, with your children is crucial for their overall development. Not only does a secure attachment positively affect their relationship with you, but it can also positively impact their future interactions with friends and even romantic partners.

Here’s how to know if your child has formed a secure attachment.

10 Signs Your Child Feels Deeply Safe, Loved, and Secure With You, According to Psychologists Children who have a secure attachment are confident, resilient, and emotionally intelligent. Here, mental health experts offer tips to help parents and kids develop this essential bond.

Parents and Providers: Triple P - Positive Parenting Program reminds us that every time we give kids a hug, laugh at their jokes, or help them solve a problem, we’re nourishing their mental health.

It’s all about finding small moments of joy and walking the bumpy road of life together in your own way.