Virtually all states use a variety of settings to operate center-based pre-K, often making extensive use of child care or Head Start classrooms in addition to public schools. About half of the pre-K programs in 24 states allowed Family Child Care homes (FCCs) to receive state pre-K dollars either directly from the state or through subcontracting. This report examines the policies and provision of state-funded pre-K in FCCs in these 24 states and in four large cities: Denver, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle. This is followed by a discussion of the potential opportunities and challenges derived from an analysis of current state policies and the FCC literature base. Recommendations are provided for state or city leaders considering inclusion of FCCs in their pre-K programs.
Including Family Child Care in State and
City-funded Pre-K Systems: Opportunities
and Challenges
Ahead of FFN Appreciation Week 2025, a member of the Home Grown staff shares her personal experience with family, friend and neighbor providers and why she's passionate about supporting them.
Severe climate and weather disasters in the U.S. have become more frequent. For home-based child care providers, these disasters not only affect the health and well-being of those impacted, but they also disrupt the livelihoods of HBCC providers and caregivers whose businesses are run from their homes.
When the devastating LA fires displaced families and child care providers, Home Grown and local partners moved quickly to provide emergency cash aid.