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Rusby, J. C. (2002). Training needs and challenges of family child care providers. Child & Youth Care Forum, 31(5), 281-293.
This article reported feedback from a survey of family child care providers on their training needs. Feedback from workshop attendees was also detailed.
The Study
- Approximately 26% of children under age six are in family child care. Many parents choose this option because it is often more affordable and available than center care.
- Studies have found that the quality of child care in family settings varies greatly. Many children from at-risk homes are enrolled in family child care settings of lower quality.
- Overall it is difficult to define levels of care based solely on whether it is family based or center based.
The Methods
- Surveys were mailed to a random selection of 275 family providers in a mid-sized county in Oregon. Of the sent surveys, 178 were completed and returned. Most were white (87.2%), followed by 5.6% Hispanic, 3.4% Native American, .6% African American, .6% Asian, 1.7% other, and 1.1% unknown. Of the providers, 34% were relatively new to the field and 53% had some college education.
- A random sample of 12 participants was selected to attend workshops on safety, environment, and behavior issues.
The Findings
- Eighty-four percent of survey respondents wanted training on behavior management, 77% on curriculum and activities, and 73% on stress management.
- Most cited an interest in attending local workshops, learning at home, and receiving resource materials.
- Of workshop respondents, the majority indicated that they would incorporate new skills into their work.
- Across the board, cost of materials was a major concern.
R2P Evaluation
The finding on behavioral management reflects other research on family providers’ training needs. However, this was a very small study conducted in one county. Replication of the study should occur in other areas of the country. The findings could help create better training and resource materials for family providers.
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