The document provides an overview of policies related to state definitions and regulations, licensing and subsidy, external systems, quality rating and improvement systems (QRIS), and funding. We also highlight changes to policies related to HBCC enacted as a result of COVID-19. At the end of each section, we include key takeaways and states that may be of interest for each topic. The goal of the document is to highlight states that may be strong candidates for case studies to be conducted as part of this project to further explore supportive policies in depth.
Promising Practices in Policy for Home-Based Child Care

September 30, 2025
Carmela is a family, friend and neighbor caregiver who is proud of her Hispanic heritage. Learn more about how her Hispanic heritage shapes her work as a HBCC caregiver in this blog.
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.