The Shared Services Network Hub is a resource for early childhood care providers. Hubs have the responsibility of managing provider-driven services to a group of child care programs. These entities are often based locally, serving a network of providers in the same community or region. Child Care Aware® of Eastern Kansas provides support for 17 counties in Kansas.
Our hub service counties: Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Coffee, Crawford, Elk, Franklin, Greenwood, Labette, Linn, Miami, Montgomery, Neosha, Wilson, and Woodson.
Not in our hub service area? Find your hub here!
If you have questions about the Shared Service Network Hub or need support on something not listed below, please contact Deb Danielson at (785) 224-6479
Click on the title below for more information.
The foundation of most Shared Service Networks is child care management software, which can help providers communicate with families and staff; set up reminders; handle scheduling and calendars; manage billing, reporting, and enrollment; and much more. The software also helps providers determine where additional support is needed, such as janitorial, maintenance, or administrative services.
Child Care Aware of Kansas has partnered with the companies below to offer this software to KDHE licensed providers at no cost.
Brightwheel: Elevate your early education platform with the #1 child care management platform on the market! Quick to set up, and even easier to use: Brightwheel is built to save you and your staff time.
Playground: Your dream, all-in-one child care management system,
powerful, not overwhelming. Playground has every feature you need to effortlessly run an early child care program — from child management to HR.
Find your Regional Community Consultant below to learn how to get either of these software programs for free.
Dark Green Counties: Contact Kristina Griffee at
Light Green Counties: Contact Autumn Ryser at
Don't see your county? Find your Regional Community Consultant here.
This service is currently in development, and we’d love your input! What would you like to see in a Farm-to-ECE program? If you have ideas, requests, or know anyone connected with your local Farmers Market, please reach out to Deb Danielson at
For child care centers with five or more employees, please visit www.optimabenefitsgroup.com or email Deb Danielson at
Abundant Medicare Health & Life Solutions: At Abundant Medicare Health & Life Solutions, their mission is to help you find the best Medicare solutions and maximize your financial future. They understand that your needs and budget may change over time and are committed to being by your side every step of the way.
Docs by Phone: Docs By Phone (or Telemedicine) offers affordable options to help you manage everyday, common health issues that normally require a trip to the doctor or urgent care visit. This online app provides you 24/7 access to doctors via phone, video, or mobile app. Doctors are board certified in your state and licensed to practice medicine and write prescriptions. Your subscription includes a prescription discount card that helps reduce Rx costs.
Learn more about Docs By Phone Telemedicine and the kinds of health issues that can be addressed by creating a free account at ECE Resources Kansas and then finding these cost-effective, comprehensive services here.
Early Education activity kits are available for checkout at local libraries through the Southeast Kansas Library System.
Organization Accounts & Checking Out Materials: Organization accounts allow materials to be borrowed for organizational use when it is more appropriate for the organization than an individual to assume responsibility for items used during working times. SEKLS and Child Care Aware have set aside funds to replace or repair items lost or damaged by children. Subject to funding, this “insurance” covers up to $100 for each organization. An organization requesting these funds must have checked out materials using an Organization Card.
Recommendations for Issuing Cards:
- Require the organization owner or administrator to present a signed letter on official letterhead indicating the organization accepts financial responsibility for all items borrowed on the account, minus the available $100 damage waiver.
- Present a photo ID, proof of address, and complete registration with all relevant contact information.
- List staff members authorized to use the account.
Member Libraries Should Consider:
- Authorized staff are required to present the organization’s library card or valid ID when using the account.
- Consider expanding loan periods and limits to meet organizational needs.
- Set Organization Cards to expire yearly and renew with verbal or written verification of contact information and an updated list of
authorized users.
Finding Materials: Materials are regularly added to the Professional Collection kits. Click here to see a materials list. New additions will be displayed at the top of the list.
For assistance setting up an organization account, contact Jason Robb at
These services are currently available in Allen, Anderson, Coffey, Franklin, Linn, and Miami counties for centers or family child care programs with two caregivers. For information on Substitute Services, contact Robin at 785 263-6312 or
