Missouri's Parent Education Program is a voluntary parent education program offered through local school districts, serving families who are expecting a child or have children under the age of kindergarten entry. Missouri's Parent Education Program helps to establish positive partnerships between home, school and the community and plays a vital role in supporting families and children from the very beginning toward school readiness.

The goal of the Office of Childhood is to ensure Missouri’s children can have success at every stage and to do so, quality is essential. People who educate and care for children need programs that support their efforts to increase quality and provide children with the best opportunities for success. Quality Programs focuses on efforts to equip child care professionals with essential supports to help children thrive.

Early Intervention programs within the Office of Childhood strive to ensure that young children are safe, healthy, and successful learners through parent engagement activities, increased developmental screening opportunities, and access to resources and supports.

• First Steps

Welcome to DESE’s Office of Childhood! This new office provides a comprehensive approach to childhood care and education in Missouri. It includes programs related to child care, home visiting, early learning, and early intervention for children birth to age five, as well as afterschool programs for school-age children. The Office of Childhood is responsible for overseeing DESE’s efforts to expand and improve high-quality early learning opportunities.