The Importance of Early Childhood Care and Education
For children aged birth to five, every day counts. Our vision is that all children in our region will thrive and race, place, and income will no longer determine success in school.
Our Mission
Since 1996, Thrive Birth to Five has collaborated to build our region’s early childhood system and is a trusted steward of early childhood resources for families, providers and the ecosystem supporting them.
Birth to age five is a critical time in every child’s development. As children learn, play, and experience the world, their brains are growing: 90% of a child’s brain develops before age five. Thrive Birth to Five is dedicated to creating an Early Childhood Care and Education system in Central Virginia that gives every child a chance to succeed during these important years.
Thrive Birth to Five partners with providers, families, and organizations throughout the region to strengthen quality, increase accessibility, and expand the capacity of care.
Families & Caregivers
Resources to support families on their journey with children from birth to age five.
Educators & Observers
Learn more about the Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5) initiative.
Advocates & Partners
Local governments, community organizations, business leaders, and other stakeholders benefit from a strong early care system.
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Early Childhood Systems
Thrive Birth to Five is the lead organization for Ready Region Central, bringing strategic leadership of early childhood care and education services to prepare children for success.
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About Us
Thrive Birth to Five is dedicated to building a high-quality early childhood care and education system in Central Virginia through increased quality, access, capacity, and parental choice.
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Resources
Looking for more information? Thrive Birth to Five has gathered resources, data, and information on early childhood, all in one place.
Key News
What parts of Virginia are most in favor of increasing access to child care? Rural areas.
March 31, 2025
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Cardinal News
The Virginia Early Childhood Foundation recently commissioned a poll to gauge voters’ views on the need for more and better child care.
Kindergarten registration open for Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico Schools
February 18, 2025
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WRIC ABC 8News
Parents of rising kindergarteners in Central Virginia can now register their children for the 2025-2026 school year. Enrollment is officially open in Richmond, Chesterfield and Henrico, with each county offering different registration processes.
Intentional daily interactions with children are the focus of VPM’s new 90by5 messaging campaign
February 18, 2025
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VPM
Did you know that 90% of a child's brain develops by the age of 5? This is why it’s so important for children to have early, positive interactions that make a lasting difference in their lives. VPM is excited to partner with the Robins Foundation and Thrive Birth to Five to launch a new initiative that stresses the importance and value of a child’s earliest days of learning for overall family wellbeing.
Empowering Childcare: Dr. DeShonda Jennings on Transforming Early Education and Building Stronger Communities
February 2, 2025
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Sheen Magazine
Dr. DeShonda Jennings is redefining what it means to be an advocate for children and families. With a legacy rooted in passion, education, and empowerment, this trailblazing childcare expert has touched lives across the globe as a business owner, coach, author, and international speaker. From founding DJ Shining Stars Daycare LLC® to mentoring countless childcare providers, Dr. Jennings has dedicated her career to transforming early education and creating sustainable futures for families and educators alike.
Virginia childcare providers can’t hire staff due to background check delays: 'When is it going to be fixed?'
January 27, 2025
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WTVR
Several Central Virginia childcare directors and owners told CBS 6 they have been waiting weeks or months for the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) to process job candidates' fingerprint background checks, which is hindering the hiring of much-needed staff.
Get In Touch
Connect with Thrive Birth to Five to learn more.
