Network Benchmarks and Indicators Resource Collection

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Home Grown and Erikson Institute developed a framework of 11 quality benchmarks for home-based child care networks. Together, the benchmarks and indicators represent a picture of what a high-quality network strategy can look like. Home Grown and Erikson Institute have also created a collection of resources around the benchmarks, including findings from a national survey and multiple focus groups with network staff and providers to understand how networks address the benchmarks and indicators. Find links to the framework, survey report, and focus group briefs below.

Benchmarks and Indicators Framework

Strengthening HBCC Networks: An Evidence-Based Framework For High Quality (Benchmarks)

Research Brief: Identifying Practices And Features Of High-Quality HBCC Networks

Survey Findings

Implementing Benchmarks for High- Quality HBCC Networks: Findings from a National Survey of HBCC Networks

Focus Group Findings

Promising Practices for High-Quality Home-Based Child Care Networks: Focus Group Briefs

Supporting Family, Friend, and Neighbor Providers

Promising Practices for High-Quality Home-Based Child Care Networks: Supporting Family, Friend, and Neighbor Providers

Promising Practices for High-Quality Home-Based Child Care Networks: Family, Friend, and Neighbor Providers’ Recommendations

Benchmarks and Indicators Toolkit

Network Benchmarks and Indicators Toolkit

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Unlocking Nutritional Support: A Potential New Pathway for Family, Friend, and Neighbor Caregivers to Access the Food Program in Colorado

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From the Hill to their Homes: HBCC Provider Leaders Share Their Stories with Policymakers During the 2025 August Recess

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Home-based child care providers share feedback and insight on their experiences with legislative visits during the 2025 August recess.
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Child Care at Risk: How Federal Funding Cuts—and Government Shut Down— Hurts Families and Home-Based Providers

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Families and child care providers are being squeezed as pandemic-era supports expire and federal funding stalls. Across the country, home-based providers are struggling to stay open amid lower reimbursements and rising costs. Without stronger federal investment in the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), tens of thousands of children could lose access to care.
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