NAFCC Quality Ambassador Training

Time: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Join a dynamic network of professional leaders committed to advancing the power of family child care! The Quality Ambassador Training is an immersive two-day workshop designed to equip participants with the skills, tools, and knowledge necessary to support family child care (FCC) educators on their journey toward NAFCC Accreditation.
This training is ideal for professionals with experience in home-based early learning settings who are passionate about quality improvement, coaching, and professional development. As a Certified NAFCC Accreditation Trainer, you will gain the expertise to guide FCC educators through the accreditation process, helping them navigate self-study, implement quality standards, and achieve national recognition for their commitment to excellence.

Facilitators: Pending

NAFCC Accreditation Observer Training

Time: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Join the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) in a comprehensive two-day Accreditation Observer Training designed for professionals committed to supporting family child care educators on their journey to accreditation. Observers play a critical role in ensuring that high-quality practices are recognized and validated through the accreditation process.

This interactive training provides participants with an in-depth understanding of the NAFCC Observation process, including key procedures, documentation techniques, and professional responsibilities. Through engaging discussions, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will develop the skills needed to conduct fair, objective, and reliable accreditation observations.

Facilitators: Pending

AI Demystified: How FCC Providers and Support Organizations Can Leverage AI

Time: 8:00-12:00pm

Level: Intermediate

Description: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, and family child care (FCC) is no exception. This session will break down AI in simple, accessible terms and explore how both FCC providers and the organizations that support them can harness AI to improve efficiency, streamline administrative work, and enhance provider resources.

Attendees will gain practical insights into how AI can assist with daily operations, communication, and professional development. The session will also emphasize building confidence in using AI as a tool, encouraging creative experimentation, and recognizing potential risks such as AI hallucinations and data privacy concerns.

By the end of this session, participants—whether FCC providers or those in supporting roles—will leave with a clear understanding of how AI can be leveraged in their work and will be able to identify at least one actionable way to start using AI effectively.

Program is designed for attendees comfortable with using email and web browsing. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops with WiFi access. WiFi enabled tablets are ok and smartphones can be used if need be, though the presenter can’t guarantee how well each tool discussed will work on a smartphone.

Facilitator: Bill Hudson, Executive Director Project Director, ASPIRE PreK Program Family Child Care Alliance of Maryland

Diversifying Revenue in Times of Scarcity

Time: 8:00am-10:00am

Level: Intermediate

Description: The most successful businesses don’t just slash expenses, they strategically invest in growth opportunities even during lean times. By carefully analyzing your financial situation and making data-driven decisions, you can navigate financial challenges and position your business for long-term success. Learn practical tips for cutting costs while also building revenue.

Facilitator: Marleen Tobi, Civitas Strategies, LLC, Senior Associate, Content

Advanced Tax Mitigation Strategies

Time: 10:00am-12:00pm

Level: Advanced

Description: Are you maximizing your opportunities for tax savings? Learn more ways to decrease your tax bill. This workshop takes your tax knowledge to the next level, focusing on advanced strategies specifically designed for child care business owners.

Facilitator: Jennifer Vail, Civitas Strategies, LLC, Director of Professional Learning