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Gillman, A.R. (2001). Strengthening family child care in low-income communities. A report to the Surdna Foundation. Available at the Surdna Foundation website. New York: NY: The Surdna Foundation.
The goal of this report was to provide a framework of understanding that highlights family child care as the prevalent means of child care in low-income communities. However, it is an essential part of a community's economic development.
The Study
- Family child care is the fastest growing form of child care (both unregulated and regulated) used most often by low-income families.
- Research suggested that children in low-income communities are more likely to be in low-quality family child care.
- Family child care is underfunded, poorly organized, and lacks structure to meet a growing demand.
- Community groups have organized to support family child care providers. These groups range from loosely formed provider associations to well-developed organizations with member services.
- The definition and regulation of family child care varies from state to state.
- The National Association of Family Child Care has offered accreditation since 1987 based on nationally accepted standards for center-based programs. In 1999, the Family Child Care Project at Wheelock College developed and implemented an accreditation program for family child care providers. A Child Development Associate was created in 1971 as a degree achievement for providers.
- Barriers to family child care success include: low and unstable income, isolation and lack of professional development opportunities, and unsuitable housing.
- Successful community-based organizations for family child care providers have network coordinators and recruit new providers. They also offer:
- Training,
- Small business support,
- Networking and peer support,
- Access to capital,
- Housing assistance,Ongoing professional support and education, and
- Generation of increased revenue.
- Lack of stable funding for family child care is the profession’s greatest problem.
R2P Evaluation
This review of family child care needs is helpful for policy makers, provider organizations, and others who are in a position to aid family child care providers. The author states the needs of the field and suggested opportunities for meeting those needs.
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