On May 11, educators, families, and communities across the country participated in Day Without Child Care 2026, a growing national movement designed to highlight what happens when child care is unavailable and to elevate the essential role early childhood educators play in the lives of children, families, communities, and the economy. Now in its fifth…
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Federal child care policy activity continues to move quickly in Congress and across federal agencies. Below is a snapshot of major developments impacting family child care (FCC) educators, children, and families, along with updates on legislation aligned with the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Policy Priorities. Federal Policy Updates Two Bipartisan Child Care…
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The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) is concerned about the impact the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) Final Rule will have on family child care educators, the families they serve, and the long-term stability of the child care system. While we welcome opportunities for the Department of Health and Human Services to provide…
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Written by Eboni Delaney, Director of Policy and Movement Building When Chantal and Harold Hinds first learned they were pregnant, one of the first pieces of advice they received was a recommendation for a family child care program. “After the congratulations, it was, you have to take your baby to our child care provider.” The…
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By Erica Phillips and Eboni Delaney, National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Recent comments from the President have suggested that child care is simply too large and too complex for the United States to take on, but the reality tells a different story. When the 2027 federal budget was released earlier this month, one…
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In Response to the President’s Budget Proposal and Recent Comments on Child Care Last Friday, April 3, the Administration released its proposed budget for fiscal year 2027. The proposal offers little for young children and their families. In fact, aside from eliminating the Preschool Development Grants Birth to Five program—which supports the coordination and improvement…
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Federal policymakers are currently considering several proposals that could significantly change how child care subsidy programs operate nationwide. While many of these proposals are framed as efforts to increase accountability or prevent improper payments, the approaches being discussed could create new barriers for family child care (FCC) educators and the families who rely on them.…
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NAFCC is the national hub for Family Child Care programs, systems and success!!! An Exclusive Invitation for Illinois FCC State Administrators and Leaders to join us in a VIRTUAL WEBINAR advancing the Future of Family Child Care Together! About the Experience The FCC360 Experience is a national platform that drives collaboration, strategy, and innovation for…
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Written by Eboni Delaney, Director of Policy and Movement Building When asked why she chose family child care, Lenise Parker answers without hesitation: “Family child care chose me.” It is a response that defines her entire approach to the field, blending her deep-seated commitment, community support, and an intuitive understanding of what families need. Long…
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In this edition of “On the Move,” we’re excited to spotlight the impactful work and milestones achieved by the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) in January and February. These highlights reflect NAFCC’s continued dedication to elevating family child care educators, fostering meaningful connections, and driving quality care nationwide. Engaging with IL FCC Educators…
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