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

A child’s hand playing with colorful wooden building blocks on a wooden surface.

This report includes findings from a national survey of networks about the benchmarks and indicators for high-quality home-based child care networks. This study represents the first effort to understand how networks address the benchmarks and indicators. Findings reveal insights into networks’ organizational culture and values, the kinds of services that networks offer, and the ways networks implement these services.

Home-based child care providers share feedback and insight on their experiences with legislative visits during the 2025 August recess.
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.