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

September 8, 2025
Grandparents are unsung heroes of home-based child care. Millions of grandparents are stepping up all across the U.S. to provide primary care for their grandchildren. Stories like Tracy Owen, Natalie Whitesides, and Maria Buehler show how grandparents balance work, retirement, or other responsibilities while providing loving care.
August 27, 2025
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.