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Kansas’ new Office of Early Childhood has released its first annual report to the Legislature, showing its progress and goals as the state works to bring early childhood programs together.

The report explains how more than 20 programs that used to be managed by different agencies are being combined into one office. The goal is to make services easier to access, more organized, and more efficient for families and childcare providers.

Gov. Laura Kelly said the office will help parents find the support they need and simplify rules and paperwork for providers. About 180,000 children under age 5 in Kansas use programs like child care subsidies, licensing, home visits, and Head Start, but many families currently have to contact multiple agencies to get help.

Christi Smith, the first director, said the report sets clear priorities for the office’s first year and focuses on transparency and tracking data to improve services for children and families.

The office will fully start operating on July 1, 2026, bringing together programs previously managed by the Department for Children and Families, Health and Environment, State Education Department, and Kansas Children’s Cabinet. The report also includes recommendations for planning, organizing the office, improving communication, and building stronger partnerships across early childhood programs.