NAFCC “On the Move” (January + February 2026 Highlights)

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 & Representative Dr. Erma Jackson

During a recent trip to Chicago, NAFCC Executive Director Erica Phillips, Director of Development Lolita Jerido, PsyD, and Conference Coordinator Emily Fallon attended the Austin Family Child Care Association Meet & Greet hosted by NAFCC State Representative Dr. Erma Jackson. The gathering brought together local family child care educators and leaders. Surrounded by community members and NAFCC supporters, the team had the opportunity to listen, exchange ideas, and celebrate the educators who power family child care across Chicago.

Representing Family Child Care at a Senate HELP Hearing

In February, Policy Strategist Daphne Alsiyao was on Capitol Hill attending the Senate HELP Committee hearing on “Restoring Integrity: Preventing Fraud in Child Care Assistance Programs.” She was joined by Washington, D.C. State Rep Cynthia Davis and other child care advocates from across the country to elevate educator voices and share the realities of family child care.

Elevating Family Child Care Voices in Policy Conversations

In February, Eboni Delaney, Director of Policy and Movement Building at The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), joined national partners in Washington, D.C., for a convening of WeVision Early Ed, hosted by the Bainum Family Foundation alongside educators and early childhood leaders across family child care, center-based programs, and family, friend, and neighbor care, she participated in a visit to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families – ACF.

The conversation focused on the realities educators and providers are navigating and the policies shaping their work. Voices from across the early childhood system belong in every space where decisions are being made. When those closest to the work are part of the conversation, policy moves closer to what children, families, and communities need.

Bringing Family Child Care Voices to Capitol Hill

Policy Strategist, Daphne Alsiyao, attended NAEYC’s Public Policy Forum in Washington, D.C. The Forum was a wonderful opportunity to connect with family child care educators, including NAFCC Maryland State Representative, Tiffany Jones. The final day of the event ended with delivering real stories from the field to members of Congress on Capitol Hill.

Deepening Partnerships in Atlanta

NAFCC Executive Director Erica Phillips connected with the Council for Professional Recognition & Dr. Calvin Moore in Atlanta. She stopped by for a studio recording of the Council Table Podcast. While there, she also connected with Marica Cox-Mitchell, NAFCC Board member. Look out for both of them on an upcoming episode of Season 2.

Advocacy is Action: Tennessee Family Child Care Advocacy Day

NAFCC is proud to highlight Tennessee State Representative Lenise Parker for hosting her first Tennessee Family Child Care Advocacy Day.

Centered on the theme “Fighting for Child Care,” the event brought together family child care educators and advocates for a day of learning, connection, and direct engagement with state leaders.
The day was co-hosted by Senator Charlane Oliver, whose partnership helped elevate these issues and ensure they were heard at the state level. The event was also supported by NAFCC Board Member and North Carolina State Representative Vantoinette Savage.

Arizona Meet & Greet with Representative Susan Randolph

In February, we were excited to be in Arizona alongside State Representative Susan Randolph for a powerful Meet & Greet with home-based child care educators and partners. Hosted at Mesa Community College, the evening was filled with connection, energy, and a shared commitment to strengthening family child care.
Our Executive Director, Erica Phillips, shared a compelling message on advocacy, professionalism, and the importance of Arizona’s voice in the national landscape.

Together, we are expanding opportunities, increasing awareness of accreditation, and continuing to build a strong, connected network of educators across the state.

With gratitude to all who joined, and for their generous support.