Our 2025 Annual Impact Report is now live!
Mayor Lurie just announced a historic expansion of free and low cost childcare!
Putting the pieces together so children can soar.
Meet San Francisco’s Department of Early Childhood.
We partner with all of the adults who care for young children, so that together we can create healthier, happier, and more imaginative childhoods. And that makes the city a better place to live for us all.
Parents, we're here for you.
Parenting can be hard, which is why we put parents at the center of what we do. DEC is the City department solely dedicated to our youngest children. We work to support San Francisco families by funding family services and early childhood programs. DEC is here to make it easier to raise young children in San Francisco.
RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES
Growing together in early childhood.
Early childhood educators and partners help children grow, learn, and thrive. They make our city stronger. We work together to give children and families amazing resources in our city.
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News & Updates
Family Resource Center Request For Grant Applications is Open!
It is with excitement and gratitude that the Department of Early Childhood (DEC) announces the launch of the fourth funding cycle for the Family Resource Center Initiative and this corresponding
Connecting to SF Families: DEC’s Weekend of Family Engagement around the City
If you were strolling through San Francisco this weekend, you may have seen DEC’s table. We were out and about, getting to know the children and parents in three of
A Brighter Future for San Francisco’s Children: Early Education Milestones and Aspirations
Every half-decade, the San Francisco Child Care Planning and Advisory Council (CPAC), in partnership with the Department of Early Childhood (DEC), undertakes a significant endeavor: crafting a comprehensive needs assessment
Expanding Access to Quality Child Care in San Francisco: Financial Support for Early Learning Programs
San Francisco has always been at the forefront when it comes to prioritizing early childhood education and ensuring that every child has access to high-quality care. In a remarkable move,
Making Magic at the First Annual SFQC Infant/Toddler Conference
Over 100 early childhood educators, coaches, and consultants gathered on June 9 and 10 for San Francisco’s first infant/toddler conference, hosted by DEC and WestEd. The event, Pathways to Security,
The Fun Has Just Begun: DEC’s Family Resource Centers Celebrated SF’s Week of the Young Child
Every year during the first week of April, communities across the nation celebrate the Week of the Young Child to honor and uplift the importance of early learning, young children,
Data & Evaluation Services Request for Proposals is Now Open!
Calling all qualified suppliers! The Department of Early Childhood (DEC) is seeking proposals for four crucial service areas. If you have expertise in data mapping, data governance, evaluation implementation, landscape
Press Release: Mayor Breed Announces Budget Investments to Expand Early Child Care Efforts
In partnership with Supervisor Melgar, the proposed initiatives will build on the City’s groundbreaking early education and child care initiatives by expanding eligibility to moderate income families and piloting extended-hour
Press Release: Nature-filled Play Areas Coming to Child Care Sites Across San Francisco
Benefits include better mental health and creativity. SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Ten San Francisco child care centers and family child care homes have been transformed into nature-filled oases that inspire