Bright & Early ND Brand Refresh is Coming!
We're excited to announce that Bright & Early ND is getting a brand refresh to better align with Health and Human Services! Over the next few months, we’ll be updating our website to create a more seamless experience. This includes updates to our logo, color scheme, and how content is organized. Thank you for your patience and support as we make these changes. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!

Bright & Early ND is North Dakota's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) designed to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality of early childhood programs. Administered by Health and Human Services, Bright & Early ND serves as a key strategy for quality improvement under North Dakota law (NDCC 50-11.1)
Our Mission
Bright & Early ND's mission is to promote high-quality early childhood experiences that build the foundation children need to thrive in school and in life. We achieve this by supporting and strengthening North Dakota's early childhood workforce, empowering them to elevate the quality of care they provide to young children, their families, and the community.
Our Goals
» Improve the Quality of Early Childhood Experiences
We raise the quality of care statewide by implementing a progressive system that is grounded in evidence-based practices, ensuring positive outcomes for children and their families.
» Support and Strengthen the Early Childhood Workforce
We provide ongoing support, specialized training opportunities, and access to financial incentives for the early childhood workforce, equipping them with the resources and skills needed to deliver high-quality care.
» Increase Family Awareness and Engagement
We raise awareness and educate families about the importance of high-quality early childhood experiences. By providing accessible information and resources, we empower families to make informed decisions about their children's care.
Why This Work Matters
During the first five years of a child's life, their brain develops faster than at any other time. The experiences they have during this period shape their future, making high-quality early childhood experiences so important. Children who have access to these experiences perform better in school, make healthier choices, are more likely to graduate, and find employment.
When we invest in high-quality early childhood experiences, we're investing in the future of North Dakota’s children, families, and communities.
Learn More About Bright & Early ND
Whether you're just starting out or ready to take the next step, find the information you need here! Discover how Bright & Early ND works, the benefits of participation, and explore a variety of resources to support your program.
Want More Information? Stay Connected
Stay up to date with the latest information and resources by subscribing to the Child Care Connections newsletter, delivered quarterly by Health and Human Services.