Child Care Aware of America Reacts to Federal Funding Pause

By cooper.joslin on January 28, 2025

Transformative professional development: Disaster preparedness, response, and recovery for Colorado’s Early Childhood Councils

By cooper.joslin on January 14, 2025

How can the business community help its employees—and all workers—solve child care challenges?

By cooper.joslin on December 30, 2024

Child care and the 2024 Election: How will the political landscape influence what’s next?

By cooper.joslin on December 2, 2024

In 2024, child care was a crucial election issue, informing voter behavior and policy discussions. With the economy being another focus, candidates from both parties acknowledged the need for affordable and accessible child care, though they proposed different solutions. With election results in most races called, we have a better understanding of the political landscape... Read more »

Strengthening our child Care workforce by supporting access to affordable health insurance

By cooper.joslin on November 20, 2024

This open enrollment season (Nov. 1 – Jan. 15), Child Care Resource & Referral agencies (CCR&Rs) have a unique opportunity to connect child care providers with affordable health insurance options through the health insurance marketplace. By sharing key dates, connecting providers with free resources, and promoting open enrollment, CCR&Rs take a strategic approach to supporting... Read more »

Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map early childhood education policies across states

By cooper.joslin on November 20, 2024

 National Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day celebrates the use ofGIS, a powerful software toolused to create and display maps that help geographically illustrate and communicate complex problems. GIS maps can help identify assets and resources, as well as understand underlying location-based trends in datasets.  

Federal Relief Funding for Child Care is Over. Now What?

By cooper.joslin on October 17, 2024

Across the United States, there’s a patchwork of state child care policies and investments.  In recent years, several states were able to expand eligibility, improve affordability, and make other changes to their child care policies, funded in part by COVID-19 relief dollars. With the expiration of relief funding in September 2024, CCAoA is keeping an... Read more »

Guest Blog: Strengthening Emergency Preparedness Through Local Partnerships and Provider Training

By cooper.joslin on September 24, 2024

Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) welcomes guest blog post that provide essential insights and information about the child care field. This guest blog post features a program in Johnson County, Kansas, that strengthens child care providers' emergency preparedness capabilities through planning and training supports and exercises that allow providers to test their plans.

Talk to families about routine childhood vaccines.

By cooper.joslin on August 28, 2024

Encourage families to talk to their health care providers about routine vaccines that will help keep their children healthy.

State Session Round Up: Summer 2024

By cooper.joslin on August 28, 2024

Building off a busy legislative year in 2023, states continued to make progress in 2024 on advancing policies and investments for their child care systems. This year, states had multiple factors to juggle related to child care policy, including spending down remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, developing new Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Plans for 2025-2027, and addressing new federal requirements in CCDF regulations.  

Invest in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on August 13, 2024

Learn more about Bipartisan Bills on Child Care Tax Credits and Workforce Support

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2024

On July 31, Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) introduced two bipartisan child care bills that aim to ease the burden of child care costs for families, encourage businesses to support additional child care supply, and support the child care workforce. CCAoA supports Senator Kaine and Senator Britt’s bills and applauds their bipartisan effort to strengthen the child care system.  

New Resource for Families: Finding Child Care When a Child is Mildly Ill

By cooper.joslin on July 3, 2024

Families who have a child in child care, preschool, or elementary school have a regular place for their child while they work or attend school. However, there will be times when a child will get sick, and they won’t be able to attend their regular child care or school. Though inevitable, many families are faced with a last-minute decision about what to do when their child is sick hours before they must get to work or attend a class. 

Learning from Relief Funding: A Look at Outreach and Education Efforts Across the Country

By cooper.joslin on June 25, 2024

  Child care received $52.5 billion in temporary federal relief funding to help the sector recover and rebuild in the wake of the pandemic. Research shows that the investments have made a difference in lowering prices for families and increasing child care employment and wages, which helped stabilize the market in a time of turmoil. This funding, especially stabilization grants made available under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), gave each state an opportunity to make much-needed improvements to their child care system. States are required to spend any remaining amounts by September 2024 and, unfortunately, further federal investments have not been made. 

A Snapshot of State Responses in Draft CCDF Plans

By cooper.joslin on June 21, 2024

Currently, states are finalizing their FY 2025-2027 Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Plans. Every three years when states undergo this planning process, they must provide the public with an opportunity to comment. This must happen before submitting a final version to the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) by July 1, 2024. As states release draft CCDF Plans ahead of their required public hearings, CCAoA has been monitoring how they respond to questions, especially those aligned to new policy requirements in the 2024 CCDF Final Rule.  

Recap CCAoA’s 2024 Symposium – Raise Child Care! Raise America!

By cooper.joslin on June 10, 2024

This year’s CCAoA Symposium came at a turning point for the field. Never before has America been more child care aware. Never before have we had the opportunity to make child care strong. We did a lot of deep thinking and strategizing during the week, encouraging participants to engage with the sessions and each other.  

Understanding the Landscape of Stabilization Grant Funding Through Provider Stories

By cooper.joslin on May 3, 2024

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), passed in March 2021, included $15 billion in supplemental Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) discretionary dollars and $24 billion to make child care stabilization grants available to providers.While states have until September 2024 to spend the supplemental CCDF discretionary funds, states were required to spend stabilization grant funding by September 2023. 

How Arizona Partnered with a Local Zoo to Support Families

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2024

Looking for a new way to engage families in your community? Consider partnering with your local zoo. Learn how Child & Family Resources, Inc. (C&FR) of Arizona partnered with their local zoo to engage families, share program information and build young children’s brains.    

National CACFP Week: Raising Awareness of Nutrition in Your Child Care Program

By cooper.joslin on March 18, 2024

On March 10-16, we will celebrate National CACFP Week!   Why? The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is an essential federal program that addresses hunger and builds healthy eating habits by providing reimbursement for nutritious foods to children enrolled for care at eligible child care programs, including child care centers, home-based programs and after-school care. Every day, 4.2 million children receive healthy meals and snacks through CACFP, supporting their health, well-being and development. We celebrate the Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (CCR&Rs) across the country who serve as CACFP sponsors and the child care programs who participate in CACFP. 

A Funder’s Perspective: Partnering for Resiliency

By cooper.joslin on March 8, 2024

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) invited Sally Ray, Director of Domestic Funds for the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP), to talk with us as we delve into the inspiring world of philanthropy and its transformative impact on child care. A Conversation with Sally Ray CCAoA: Can you share a bit about your own journey... Read more »

You’re Speaking My Language: Increasing Access and Opportunity through Translation

By cooper.joslin on March 8, 2024

There are approximately 67.8 million individuals (about twice the population of California) for whom English is not their primary language spoken at home. The United States Census Bureau indicates that the number of individuals speaking a language other than English at home increased from 23.1 million in 1980 to 67.8 million in 2019. According to the Census, the five most frequently spoken languages other than English are Spanish/Spanish Creole, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese and Arabic. The accessibility of resources and support in languages other than English can have a significant impact on families seeking child care finding a setting that is reflective of their language and culture. Unfortunately, access to resources, information and professional development (PD) opportunities in other languages for members of the child care workforce is limited.  

Technical Assistance Modules

By cooper.joslin on March 5, 2024

What to Read Before the State of the Union

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2024

On Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 9 p.m. ET, President Biden will deliver his third State of the Union address. CCAoA urges the president to highlight the importance of child care and the need for additional investments in his speech. To help advocates gear up for the address, we are recapping key child care activity... Read more »

What We’re Watching in 2024 in States Legislative Sessions

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2024

 Building off a busy legislative year for child care in 2023, we are already seeing earlyindicators of which states are prioritizing child careinvestmentsthis year.This is a key moment for states to prioritize child care, as it is unclear if there is a path forward in Congress to secure significant funding in 2024 before federal relief funding is fully exhausted and attention shifts to the November elections. This blog explores the states’ legislative landscape, governors’stated priorities and what’snext for states in 2024. 

New Resource: CCR&R Competencies for Child Care Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery

By cooper.joslin on January 16, 2024

  Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) staff frequently serve as subject matter experts in emergency preparedness, response and recovery (EPRR). Related job duties typically include emergency preparedness plan reviews for child care programs, emergency preparedness training delivery, distribution of emergency supplies, and support to the child care workforce following a disaster. These responsibilities are typically added to another role within CCR&R and are often not listed in a job description. Many CCR&R staff had no experience or training in emergency preparedness, response and recovery before taking on the role. In many CCR&R organizations, emergency preparedness, response and recovery is a role that surfaces just after a disaster occurs and may be short-term. In other instances, usually driven by grant fund availability, emergency preparedness work is prioritized for a defined period of time, but not always sustained or embedded in ongoing service delivery.   

Putting Advocacy on the Map: Using GIS Technology to Inform Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on January 5, 2024

Putting Advocacy on the Map: Using GIS Technology to Inform Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on December 29, 2023

  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are a set of powerful software tools used to create and display maps that help geographically illustrate and communicate complex problems. They can also highlight potential solutions — maps can help identify assets and resources, as well as understand underlying location-based trends in datasets. This wealth of information can be key for child care advocates to educate and inform local and state decision-makers about the challenges facing the child care community and the need to advance specific policy solutions.  

Explainer: Equity & Inclusion for Children with Disabilities in IDEA

By cooper.joslin on December 18, 2023

Child Care and the 2023 Election

By cooper.joslin on December 6, 2023

2024 Symposium

By cooper.joslin on December 4, 2023

I Chose Child Care Aware of America this #GivingTuesday – Join me!

By cooper.joslin on November 27, 2023

As 2023 winds down, I’m reflecting on the past year, the awe-inspiring work Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA)has done and my gratitude to serve on the Board of Directors and share in this work. It is this community that makes our work to promote children's healthy development and learning through quality and accessible child care possible.  

Why Giving Tuesday inspires us to #UnleashGenerosity

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2023

You may be wondering: What IS #GivingTuesday and what are its roots? The days following Thanksgiving signify the start of the holiday spending season, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when communities are swept up in the excitement of the upcoming festivities and often leave behind the sense of love and thanks that characterize Thanksgiving. 

Fall Federal and State Policy Updates

By cooper.joslin on October 13, 2023

Fall Federal and State Policy Updates

By cooper.joslin on October 12, 2023

Federal Policy Update  Last week, Congress avoided a government shutdown with just hours to spare before the October 1 deadline when federal funding was set to expire. This is a huge relief, as a government shutdown would have temporarily disrupted critical programs that children, families and communities rely on. However, child care and early education programs are not in the clear yet. Congress was able to pass a short-term spending bill, called a continuing resolution or CR, to fund the government through November 17 at the same funding levels as FY23. Although this prevented a shutdown, it is still a temporary solution and only buys a small amount of time before we face the same threat again come November.

Interested in Speaking at CCAoA’s 2024 Symposium?

By cooper.joslin on September 25, 2023

Discover Ways to Give

By cooper.joslin on September 20, 2023

State Session Round Up: Summer 2023

By cooper.joslin on September 15, 2023

State Session Round Up: Summer 2023

By cooper.joslin on September 14, 2023

  Many states have made progress on supporting child care access, affordability and quality during their 2023 legislative sessions. These actions are particularly noteworthy as just over half ($28.49 billion) of federal relief funding approaches its spending deadline on September 30, 2023, less than a month away. 

Celebrating Black ECE Business Owners as Visionaries of Change

By cooper.joslin on September 1, 2023

As Labor Day approaches, we reflect upon the sacrifices of countless American workers who endeavored for a brighter future. Originally instituted by President Grover Cleveland, Labor Day honors those whose contributions have paved the way for progress. It is in this spirit that we do the same for Black Business owners during the month of... Read more »

Register today before the regular rate ends on 9/22.

By cooper.joslin on August 28, 2023

Restoring Hope and Fostering Value through Staffed Family Child Care Networks

By cooper.joslin on August 28, 2023

Restoring Hope and Fostering Value through Staffed Family Child Care Networks

By cooper.joslin on August 24, 2023

Child Care Aware® of America’s (CCAoA) recent report, Catalyzing Growth, shares details of the continuing decline in the supply of home-based child care (HBCC) options for families. HBCC providers have long faced burn out, low wages and a lack of benefits. When coupled with the effects of the recent global health pandemic, these factors have... Read more »

Nominations for the 2024 CCAoA Board of Directors Opens August 18

By cooper.joslin on August 17, 2023

Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the 2024 Board of Directors opens on August 18!   During the COVID-19 pandemic, child care gained unprecedented levels of funding and public and policymaker support.  Now more than ever, we need to capitalize on that growing support to build a sustainable child care system that works for families, child care providers, businesses, and communities and fuels our economic prosperity and wellbeing.  CCAoA’s vision is that every family in the United States has access to a high-quality, affordable child care system.  We work to realize that vision by: 

Health Insurance and the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

By cooper.joslin on August 15, 2023

Update on Child Care Funding in FY24 Appropriations

By cooper.joslin on August 1, 2023

Update on Child Care Funding in FY24 Appropriations

By cooper.joslin on August 1, 2023

  Negotiations for annual federal funding are in full swing, and we have a fight ahead to ensure child care and early education programs receivethe necessary investments to support children, families, and communities.

Using Data to Maximize Your Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on July 19, 2023

Summer Federal Policy Updates

By cooper.joslin on July 17, 2023

As the much-anticipated Congressional August recess approaches, it is important to note all that has happened since the start of the 118 th Congress in January. Over the past seven months, there have been several child care and early education bills introduced and reintroduced. Congress is also busy in the middle of the annual appropriations process, with appropriations committee and subcommittee bill markups currently happening.   

The Historical Significance of Juneteenth for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on June 20, 2023

“Some of my favorite memories are of being in the care of my grandmother, who was a family child care provider, but Nana to me. I wanted my own daughter to enjoy that same feeling of love and security Nana provides when it was time for her to be in child care. Finding a child care environment that surrounded my daughter with love and recognition that her Black is beautiful in the same way that Nana cared for me was important. That culturally responsive care that we yearned for was ultimately found in a Black child care provider.”   “My career in child care policy made me more familiar with the history of child care in America. As I searched down the timeline to get to the origin of the experience that families and providers face, I made the connection that child care in the U.S. is rooted in chattel slavery. Enslaved Black women were forced (and trusted) to nurture their oppressors. Black women cared for (including breastfeeding) their enslaver’s children, while their own children were sold, or forced to work alongside them.”     - Keisha Nzewi, Co-Founder, Black Californians United for Early Childcare Education    

Making the Case for Future Investments through Provider Stories

By cooper.joslin on June 13, 2023

Federal relief for child care has been a lifeline to the sector. Congress approved $52.5 billion over three separate relief packages to help the child care sector recover and rebuild in the wake of the pandemic. Unfortunately, these one-time funds are dwindling as we are rapidly approaching state liquidation deadlines.   This blog shares how the child care advocacy community can integrate first-hand stories of providers and early childhood educators to convey to policymakers what’s at stake when this funding runs out and— most importantly— make the case for continued robust federal investments. 

U.S. Department of Education Issues and Seeks Input on Out-of-School Time Guidance

By cooper.joslin on June 7, 2023

Out-of-school time care for children is an integral component of the child care and early learning system. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program was established in 1994 to support academic enrichment, health and wellness activities, and additional services to school-age children in after- and before- school programs, as well as summer learning programs in every state. This important program is a lifeline for working families who need a safe, nurturing environment for their children that supports their development. The 21st CCLC program is the only federal funding stream solely dedicated to these purposes. 

Georgetown University’s Beeck Center Partners with Child Care Aware® of America to Enhance the Child Care Subsidy Journey

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2023

Georgetown University's Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation and Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) have joined forces to embark on a 12-week long project aimed at addressing the challenges families and child care providers face in accessing and utilizing child care subsidies in the U.S. Along with representatives from three different states, this collaboration aims to define pathways for meaningful change to the child care landscape through user research and human-centered design that centers family and provider experience; Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&Rs) agencies’ leadership; and actionable solutions.    

Child Care Aware® of America Awarded $5 Million to Advance an Equitable Child Care System

By cooper.joslin on May 11, 2023

From the desk of Michelle McCready, Deputy Executive Officer at Child Care Aware® of America

Guest Blog: Iowa CCR&R’s Emergency Preparedness Campaign

By cooper.joslin on May 3, 2023

  CCAoA welcomes guest blogs that provide important insights and information about the child care field.  This guest blog features how Iowa’s CCR&R Emergency Preparedness statewide team came up with a plan to help increase severe weather awareness within their communities. 

CCAoA Supports Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on May 2, 2023

  In high-quality child care, families trust that their children are being cared for in safe, secure, nurturing environments. Child Care Aware® of America believes that every family should have this opportunity and that the entire child care system should support children’s growth, development and educational advancement. 

Providers are Like Part of the Family

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2023

Guest Blog: Revolutionizing Child Care Assistance: How ClassWallet Streamlines Early Child Care Funding

By cooper.joslin on April 27, 2023

CCAoA welcomes guest blogs that provide important insights and information about the child care field. ClassWallet, a sponsor at CCAoA’s 2023 Symposium, provides a digital wallet solution.  

Join the 2023 #ThankYouChildCare Twitter Chat

By cooper.joslin on April 26, 2023

  Celebrate Provider Appreciation Day® 2023 by joining the #ThankYouChildCare Twitter chat!   Hosted by Child Care Aware® of America, you are invited to respond to questions and share how you are celebrating. It’s also an opportunity to help educate others on how we can collectively improve the child care sector for all.    

Safety is Key for Child Care Access to Playgrounds

By cooper.joslin on April 25, 2023

  Physical play is an important factor in children’s learning and supports their healthy development. Playgrounds provide spaces for children to be active, engage in imaginative play, socialize with peers and develop new skills. While public playgrounds and playspaces’ safety and access can vary across geographies, too often playgrounds are scarce, and the quality of... Read more »

What President Biden’s Executive Order Means for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on April 21, 2023

On Tuesday, April 18, 2023, President Biden signed an Executive Order (EO) that contains more than 50 directives to support child care, home-based care, family caregivers and long-term care. Child Care Aware of America attended the EO signing and celebrates the President’s action. 

4 Ways You Can Celebrate Child Care Providers

By cooper.joslin on April 19, 2023

“Provider Appreciation Day” sounds very official – but it doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s really just about saying “thank you” to America’s child care providers, many of whom are underpaid and overworked.   A simple gesture can mean the world to the workforce that keeps the rest of the workforce going. Child Care Aware® of... Read more »

White House Announces Executive Actions Promoting Child Care and Caregiving Economy

By cooper.joslin on April 18, 2023

Child Care Aware of America applauds President Biden’s efforts to build access to child care. 

Spring Flood Preparedness and Response

By cooper.joslin on April 6, 2023

Spring flooding is a current reality in much of the Midwest and other parts of the country.  While those living in the northern tier of the country may be wishing for a quick spring warm up and the disappearance of snow, extreme snow melt, which occurs when snow melts too rapidly over a short period... Read more »

Department of Commerce Releases CHIPS Act Child Care Planning Guide

By cooper.joslin on March 27, 2023

Child Care Aware of America applauds the Dept.’s efforts to build access to affordable, high-quality, reliable child care

Who provides care for nontraditional-hours?

By cooper.joslin on March 27, 2023

Funding for Child Care and Early Learning in President Biden’s FY2024 Budget

By cooper.joslin on March 24, 2023

Provider Appreciation Day 2023

By cooper.joslin on March 21, 2023

Communities across the country are getting ready to celebrate child care providers on May 12, also known as Provider Appreciation Day®.  

Celebrating the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

By cooper.joslin on March 6, 2023

The Path Forward for Child Care in the 118th Congress

By cooper.joslin on February 17, 2023

What’s behind the US’s worsening child care crisis?

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2023

The United States is facing a growing child care crisis.

Congressman – and first time dad – says men need to step up on child care solutions

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2023

California Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez knows the parenting double-standard is real.

Child care is already unaffordable for many families. Experts worry a spike could be ahead.

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2023

For Christina Townsend, the cost of child care for her young son was $1,625 a month in Northern Virginia, about 50% of her take-home income. That was on top of the financial burden of taking unpaid parental leave when he was born.

Cost of living: Child care

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2023

Children aren’t cheap. The cost of living crisis is pushing parents to the edge of their finances, worrying about paying for essentials like food, clothing and childcare. 

Building Partnerships to Support Child Care Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery

By cooper.joslin on February 13, 2023

Child Care Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery 

All Eyes on States 2023

By cooper.joslin on February 10, 2023

New report highlights parent and provider stories and deepens our understanding of the child care crisis

By cooper.joslin on January 25, 2023

Parents still face rising costs while providers struggle to stay in business    ARLINGTON, VA, January 25, 2022 – Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today released The Year in Child Care: 2021 Data, Analysis and Recommendations, the final installment in the organization’s Catalyzing Growth: Using Data to Change Child Care series. This report highlights... Read more »

America 2023: When even members of Congress don’t have child care

By cooper.joslin on January 9, 2023

The pandemic intensified the childcare crisis—and it could be a permanent and expensive problem for working parents

By cooper.joslin on January 9, 2023

Health Insurance Open Enrollment for Early Childhood Educators Closes Soon

By cooper.joslin on January 9, 2023

A Farewell Message from Lynette M. Fraga, PH.D.

By cooper.joslin on December 29, 2022

Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D. Chief Executive Officer, CCAoA 

CCAoA Statement on Congressional Passage of FY23 Omnibus Spending Bill

By cooper.joslin on December 23, 2022

McCready Named CCAoA Interim CEO

By cooper.joslin on December 13, 2022

ARLINGTON, VA, December 13, 2022 – Michelle McCready was named Interim Chief Executive Officer of Child Care Aware® of America by the CCAoA Board of Directors effective January 12, 2023. CCAoA CEO Dr. Lynette M. Fraga announced in August that she is stepping down effective January 11, 2023.  

The Art of the Possible – A Tribute to Departing CEO, Dr. Lynette Fraga

By cooper.joslin on December 12, 2022

The ways that Dr. Lynette M. Fraga will leave her mark on Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) are innumerable. As we think about Lynette’s departure as CEO on January 11, 2023, many of us are reflecting on the moments, experiences and inspirational words she has shared that will stick with us. A personal favorite... Read more »

Preventing Respiratory Illnesses in Young Children

By cooper.joslin on December 6, 2022

You may have noticed news about increased rates of sickness among young children.  In particular, there have been increased rates for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu) and COVID-19, as COVID-19 prevention efforts have shifted away from using masks and many people are spending more time in settings with more people than they had over... Read more »

Enhancing Preparedness and Response Capabilities for Early Learning Providers and Families

By cooper.joslin on December 1, 2022

Introduction  Child Care Aware® of America launched the Enhancing Preparedness and Response Capabilities for Early Learning Providers, Families, and Children project in 2019 to assist a group of Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies within a 10-state Midwest area with increasing the likelihood that  child care providers, families, communities, and the CCR&Rs themselves are... Read more »

Congress Must Act to Support Child Nutrition in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on November 22, 2022

Child Nutrition Reauthorization (CNR) comes up for renewal every five years as an opportunity for Congress to examine the current law and make any improvements to the federal nutrition programs. The current law, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-296), expired in 2015. When a reauthorization is delayed, Congress usually includes funding... Read more »

State Legislature Roundup

By cooper.joslin on November 15, 2022

State Legislature Roundup: Some Wins, but More Support for Child Care is Needed | Exchange Press    States and local communities play a significant role in shaping the policies that determine child care access for families and the quality of available care. This article explores legislation that state and local governments enacted in 2022 to... Read more »

Your Blog Post Title Here…

By cooper.joslin on November 15, 2022

CCR&Rs Can Help Families Claim Tax Benefits by November 15

By cooper.joslin on October 27, 2022

New Report Finds that Increases in the Price of Child Care Continue to Exceed the Rate of Inflation

By cooper.joslin on October 13, 2022

Child Care in 2021 Was More Expensive than Other Household Expenses  Such as Housing and Health Care  ARLINGTON, VA, October 13, 2022 — Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today released Price of Care: 2021 Child Care Affordability, which outlines the continuing increases in the price of child care across the United States.  The report highlights... Read more »

More Attention Needed on Child Care Following White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health

By cooper.joslin on October 6, 2022

Conference Recap

The child care crisis just keeps getting worse

By cooper.joslin on September 27, 2022

Vox On the Senate floor in early August, just two days before lawmakers voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, four senior Democrats came out to lament what they believed to be the bill’s biggest omission: child care. “We cannot simply vote on this package and call it a day,” Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) said. “Our... Read more »

Relationships That Matter: Utilizing National Organizations to Support Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies’ (CCR&Rs) Work on SFCCNs

By cooper.joslin on September 21, 2022

In this final blog of CCAoA’s Staffed Family Child Care Network (SFCCN) series, several national organizations that focus their work on SFCCN are highlighted to support the work being done in CCR&R agencies. You can find the first and second blogs in this series here and here.

Support Military-Connected Families During Blue Star Welcome Week

By cooper.joslin on September 20, 2022

  Every year, 600,000 military-connected families and children move around the country. The average military family moves three times as often as their civilian peers, and the majority of these “permanent change of station” (PCS) moves take place during the summer. Finding access to quality, affordable child care is an essential component of a smooth... Read more »

Data-Driven Advocacy for Advancing Long-Term Funding for Child Care: A Texas Case Study

By cooper.joslin on September 16, 2022

Catalyzing Growth: Using Data to Change Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 14, 2022

ARLINGTON, VA, September 14, 2022 — Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today released the first report of our research series: Catalyzing Growth: Using Data to Change Child Care. The report, Annual Child Care Landscape Analysis: 2021 Supply and Quality Trends, provides detailed information about the child care system in the United States.  This year, CCAoA... Read more »

With Reconciliation Over, What’s Next for Federal Child Care Funding?

By cooper.joslin on September 7, 2022

Reconciliation (the Inflation Reduction Act) 

Child Care Aware® of America CEO Lynette M. Fraga to Resign in Early 2023

By cooper.joslin on August 17, 2022

ARLINGTON, VA, August 17, 2022 —  Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced that Chief Executive Officer Dr. Lynette M. Fraga is leaving the organization early in 2023.  

Child Care Aware® of America CEO Resignation Announcement

By cooper.joslin on August 16, 2022

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today announced that Chief Executive Officer Dr. Lynette M. Fraga is leaving the organization early in 2023.  

State Session Round Up, Summer 2022

By cooper.joslin on August 9, 2022

CCAoA Statement on the Inflation Reduction Act

By cooper.joslin on July 28, 2022

CCAoA is frustrated and disappointed with the news that the Senate may soon consider a budget reconciliation package, the Inflation Reduction Act, that includes no funding for child care and early learning. There is still time left for Congress to right this wrong.  For months, child care programs, system leaders, families and businesses have shared... Read more »

Benefits of Staffed Family Child Care Networks (SFCCN) and the Support They Provide (Part 2)

By cooper.joslin on July 28, 2022

Summer Fun… and Safety!

By cooper.joslin on July 20, 2022

It’s officially summer! And with all the fun activities that this season offers, it’s also a time to focus on safety and preparedness.

JOINT STATEMENT: Senate Must Make Good on Promise to Solve Child Care Crisis

By cooper.joslin on July 18, 2022

In response to movement on a reconciliation package framework that excludes any fundingfor child care and early learning, 24 prominent national organizations issued the followingstatement calling on Congressional Leaders to reverse course and provide funding to addressAmerica’s ever-worsening child care crisis: At a moment when Americans are struggling just to get by amid the worst... Read more »

How to Use AmazonSmile to Support CCAoA [2022]

By cooper.joslin on July 13, 2022

This year, Amazon Prime Day is July 12-13. Before you take advantage of the sales, be sure to set Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) as your preferred charity in AmazonSmile.   What is AmazonSmile? Amazon makes a donation to nonprofits like Child Care Aware® of America every time shoppers purchase from AmazonSmile. AmazonSmile is... Read more »

White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health: An Opportunity to Contribute

By cooper.joslin on June 30, 2022

The White House has announced for the first time in over 50 years, it will host a Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health this September. The White House is seeking input to shape their anti-hunger plan from a broad, diverse group of stakeholders whose communities are affected by hunger. Your input is needed to shape... Read more »

As vaccines for younger U.S. children roll out, the effects on day care centers may be muted.

By cooper.joslin on June 30, 2022

New York Times “We expect there to be an initial rush, where 20 percent of parents will get vaccinated in the next couple of weeks,” said Nikki Garro, the director of early childhood health programs at Child Care Aware, a national child care advocacy organization. “Then it will be a slow trickle.” It is unlikely... Read more »

Update:  COVID-19 Vaccines for Young Children

By cooper.joslin on June 23, 2022

Virtual Child Care Emergency Preparedness Training-of-Trainers Opportunity

By cooper.joslin on June 14, 2022

Benefits of Staffed Family Child Care Networks (SFCCN) and the Support They Provide

By cooper.joslin on June 3, 2022

Supporting Families and Child Care Programs During the Formula Shortage

By cooper.joslin on May 27, 2022

Over the past several months there have been shortages in availability of infant formula due to product recalls and supply chain issues.  The shortage has placed families and many child care programs in a very stressful situation as they work to ensure young children are fed.  

CCAoA Statement on Texas School Shooting

By cooper.joslin on May 25, 2022

Child Care Aware® of America mourns the senseless loss of children and adults from a mass shooting yesterday at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. Our hearts are broken for the families who have lost their children, for a school full of children who are now forever impacted resulting from the horrific trauma they have... Read more »

What Does Provider Appreciation Day® Actually Look Like?

By cooper.joslin on May 24, 2022

Provider Appreciation Day® 2022 was celebrated on May 6. In the conclusion to this blog series for Provider Appreciation Day®, we’re highlighting how communities are honoring the contributions of their child care providers. Sign up to be a supporter for 2023 so you can be notified of new resources to plan your celebration.    

Newest Proposal Would Provide Robust Investments to Early Childhood Programs

By cooper.joslin on May 19, 2022

Financing is Key to Advancing an Anti-Racist Child Care System

By cooper.joslin on May 18, 2022

Our nation’s child care system is complex and historically rooted in inequities. Child care providers find themselves the subject of system-level inequities that have perpetuated for over 100 years.  

Families and child care providers struggle with high costs

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2022

Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien For many American families, paying for child care is expensive, but necessary. On the other end, child care providers struggle with thin margins after paying staff, food and facility costs. CCAoA CEO Dr. Lynette Fraga spoke with Laura Chavez about the child care crisis: “The first part we need... Read more »

Military Families Thank Their Respite Child Care Providers

By cooper.joslin on May 3, 2022

New Mexico to offer a year of free child care to most residents

By cooper.joslin on April 29, 2022

Washington Post Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D) announced Thursday that New Mexico will cover the costs of child care for most residents through June 2023. The benefit, which covers families earning up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level, makes New Mexico the first state to offer no-cost care to such a broad range... Read more »

CCAoA to Lead Provider Appreciation Day® on May 6

By cooper.joslin on April 26, 2022

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) will lead Provider Appreciation Day® on May 6 to recognize and celebrate the efforts of child care providers across the country.  Provider Appreciation Day® is celebrated the Friday before Mother’s Day every year to recognize child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children everywhere. CCAoA convenes Provider... Read more »

Provider Appreciation Begins with Listening

By cooper.joslin on April 25, 2022

As we approach Provider Appreciation Day® (May 6, 2022) we are highlighting how communities are honoring the contributions of their child care providers. Sign up to be a supporter and get resources to plan your celebration. 

Say #ThankYouChildCare on May 6

By cooper.joslin on April 18, 2022

About the #ThankYouChildCare Twitter Chat 

Unite/Disrupt/Transform with Child Care Aware of America

By cooper.joslin on April 15, 2022

Early Learning Nation Child Care Aware of America’s Symposium brings together individuals from across the country to discuss research, policy and practices related to the early child care and education community. Taking place May 1-4 in Arlington, Va., this year’s four-day event offers opportunities to connect with thought leaders, Congressional staff and early education professionals... Read more »

The American Rescue Plan’s Child Care Test Run

By cooper.joslin on April 11, 2022

The American Prospect Clark’s grant is part of $39 billion in funding that the ARP sent to the child care sector in stabilization grants to keep programs from going under. The money has done precisely what it promised, keeping providers’ doors open and children enrolled. But it also did something else: It served as a... Read more »

We Celebrate Eco-Healthy Child Care® Providers

By cooper.joslin on April 6, 2022

How Montana Celebrates Child Care Providers All Year Round

By cooper.joslin on April 4, 2022

As we approach Provider Appreciation Day® (May 6, 2022) we are highlighting how communities are honoring the contributions of their child care providers. Sign up to be a supporter and get resources to plan your celebration. 

How To Use Data To Tell A Story: A Case Study of CACFP

By cooper.joslin on April 4, 2022

The States with the Most and Least Affordable Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 31, 2022

U.S. News & World Report Child care is one of the biggest expenses for working parents. In over half of states, full-time care for an infant costs more than college tuition, according to Child Care Aware of America, an organization that advocates for more affordable child care. But costs vary hugely depending on where you... Read more »

Why Budget Reconciliation is the Only Path for Federal Child Care Investments

By cooper.joslin on March 31, 2022

The US needs a human rights-focused child care agenda

By cooper.joslin on March 29, 2022

The Hill Op-ed by Mario Cardona, Chief of Policy & Practice at Child Care Aware of America and Denise Forte, interim CEO at The Education Trust, an advocate for the high academic achievement of all students, particularly those of color or living in poverty.  The truth is that our system of child care has historically overlooked... Read more »

CCAoA Symposium to Highlight Ways to Transform Child Care System

By cooper.joslin on March 29, 2022

 Child Care Aware® of America’s 2022 Symposium on May 1-4 in Arlington, Virginia, will bring together Child Care Resource and Referral professionals, child care providers, parents, policymakers, funders and the business community to tackle complex issues and strategize ways to transform the child care system during this pivotal moment.  Featured speakers will include Indra K.... Read more »

FY2022 Funding for Child Care in the Omnibus Package

By cooper.joslin on March 28, 2022

OPINION: We can longer afford to neglect child care providers and our littlest learners

By cooper.joslin on March 23, 2022

The Hechinger Report Op-ed by CCAoA CEO Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D. and Dr. Renée Boynton-Jarrett, a pediatrician and social epidemiologist, an associate professor at Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, and Vice President of CCAoA’s Board of Directors. Who will care for our nation’s children as we seek to recover economically? Our... Read more »

Help Your Community Proclaim May 6 as Provider Appreciation Day

By cooper.joslin on March 18, 2022

Provider Appreciation Day® is an annual celebration of the important work that child care providers do every day in communities across the country, and in 2022 it falls on Friday, May 6. Last year’s celebrations of Provider Appreciation Day® included recognitions by elected officials at all levels, including Governors, Members of Congress, and local leaders.  

How Hawaii Celebrated its First Statewide Provider Appreciation Day

By cooper.joslin on March 14, 2022

CCAoA Contributes to Civil Rights Principles for Early Care and Education

By cooper.joslin on March 11, 2022

Child Care Aware of America joined the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, along with 45 civil rights and education organizations, to release Civil Rights Principles for Early Care and Education on March 9. The principles outline how decision makers at all levels can ensure an education system that offers meaningful equal opportunity and success... Read more »

Reflecting on the Impact of the American Rescue Plan Act, One Year Later

By cooper.joslin on March 11, 2022

Demanding Change

By cooper.joslin on March 7, 2022

Child care workers are going hungry: ‘We have a dollar store in town and sadly fill up on cheap junk to survive’

By cooper.joslin on March 6, 2022

USA Today The growth in child-care prices exceeded the annual rate of inflation in 2020 and 2019, according to a report by Child Care Aware of America, a national nonprofit network of more than 400 agencies to help people access child care. Inflation, low wages and workforce shortages are making it so that the industry cannot recover... Read more »

A historic child care investment saved centers from collapse. What happens when the money runs out?

By cooper.joslin on March 3, 2022

The 19th The funding also came with a big promise to stabilize an industry that was in total collapse. About 1 in 3 child care workers lost their jobs at the onset of the pandemic, and more than 16,000 centers in 37 states had closed permanently by March 2021. Anne Hedgepeth, the deputy chief of... Read more »

State of the Union Recap: Biden’s Plan to Make Child Care Affordable for Families

By cooper.joslin on March 3, 2022

Strengthening Family and Community Engagement through Brain Science

By cooper.joslin on February 25, 2022

Vroom®, a national program, helps families support children’s learning during everyday moments and routines with free, science-based tips and tools. Across the United States, Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies are reaching families with the science of early brain development and brain-building resources that get families excited about boosting their children’s learning. CCR&Rs frequently... Read more »

Child care now costs more than $10,000 per year on average—here’s why that’s a problem

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2022

CNBC.com Child care is getting more expensive than ever, forcing parents to spend an increasingly large portion of their paychecks on it, according to a recent report from Child Care Aware. The “Demanding Change” report found that the national average annual cost of child care in 2020, the latest data available, was $10,174. That figure... Read more »

Capacity Building Blog Series: Early Head Start-Child Care Partnerships Blog #3

By cooper.joslin on February 15, 2022

Leadership: Capacity Building Checklist for CCR&Rs supporting EHS-CCP

Child-care costs are outpacing inflation — the average cost of daycare for infants now exceeds in-state college tuition fees

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2022

MarketWatch With inflation at a 40-year high, families are feeling the pinch of higher prices at the grocery store checkout, on their home heating bill, and when they pay rent. But there’s another expense that’s been growing even faster in recent years: child care. The growth in child-care prices exceeded the annual rate of inflation... Read more »

A Party You Don’t Want to Miss: 3 Ways to Celebrate Provider Appreciation Day

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2022

16,000 Shuttered Child Care Programs Push the Sector Closer to Collapse

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2022

EdSurge Nearly 16,000 child care programs across 37 U.S. states have permanently closed since the pandemic began, representing a 9 percent decline in the total number of licensed child care providers, according to a new report PUBLISH this month by Child Care Aware of America. Though perhaps less severe than some of the worst-case scenarios laid out in early... Read more »

America’s Childcare Providers Are Still Struggling to Survive

By cooper.joslin on February 11, 2022

Bloomberg After the pandemic struck and lockdowns ensued, Congress included $3.5 billion for childcare in its initial rescue package in April 2020 and another $10 billion in a second bill that December. But at $39 billion, “the scale of the ARPA funding is very different,” said Anne Hedgepeth, senior director of federal and state government... Read more »

16,000 childcare providers shut down in the pandemic. It’s a really big deal

By cooper.joslin on February 10, 2022

Fortune Magazine When thousands of childcare centers and day cares reopened after the COVID-19 lockdowns lifted in 2020, it seemed as if those businesses, and the families they served, were through the worst of it.  Little did everyone know that two years later, an industry that was stretched to the brink even before the pandemic would be... Read more »

Child care sector marked by fewer providers and increased prices amid pandemic

By cooper.joslin on February 9, 2022

EdSource Nearly 16,000 child care providers, 8,900 child care centers and 7,000 licensed family child care programs, permanently closed from December 2019 to March 2021, according to a new report from Child Care Aware of America.  “Parents continue to struggle to find and afford child care as they re-enter the workforce,” said Lynette M. Fraga, CEO of... Read more »

New Report Finds Fewer Child Care Providers and Increased Prices, Highlighting Need for Significant Federal Investment in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on February 8, 2022

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today released a new report and interactive website that outline how the U.S. child care system has changed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The report, titled Demanding Change: Repairing our Child Care System, highlights new survey data showing that nearly 16,000 child care providers (8,900 child care... Read more »

What’s the Latest with COVID-19 and Child Care?

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2022

Case Study: Using Social Media to Make a Difference in Your Community

By cooper.joslin on February 3, 2022

Mario Cardona Selected for Pahara Fellowship for Education Leaders

By cooper.joslin on February 3, 2022

Mario Cardona, Child Care Aware® of America’s Chief of Policy and Practice, has been selected for a Pahara Fellowship, a one-year program that identifies exceptional leaders in the educational excellence and equity movement, facilitates their dynamic growth, and strengthens their collective efforts to dramatically improve public education, especially those programs serving low-income children and communities. 

Federal Relief Funds: State Progress, Winter 2022

By cooper.joslin on January 31, 2022

This blog provides an update on how states are using the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act funds as of January 2022. The ARP Act allocated $39 billion in dedicated child care relief funding to states, with funds reaching states in spring 2021. This funding is broken down into two distinct streams: 

CCAoA Expands Disaster Preparedness Project in Midwest States

By cooper.joslin on January 20, 2022

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today announced the expansion of a disaster preparedness project for Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies in Midwest states. This project is one of the many ways that CCAoA builds capacity within the child care system in order to advance equity and to impact the quality of care... Read more »

Resolve to Be Ready in 2022

By cooper.joslin on January 14, 2022

Blog #3: Leadership: Building a Sustainable Virtual Coaching System

By cooper.joslin on January 13, 2022

You can find the first two blogs here, and here. In this third blog of our Virtual Coaching series, the focus is on how leaders can build a virtual coaching system that is both responsive to early childhood educator’s and stakeholder needs, as well as sustainable in the long term. When implementing any new system... Read more »

COVID Underscored the Need for Early Childhood Education. Are Fundraisers Seeing More Support?

By cooper.joslin on January 12, 2022

Inside Philanthropy At the Arlington, Virginia-based Child Care Aware of America (CCAA), an umbrella organization of child care resource and referral agencies, Deputy Executive Officer Michelle McCready…reports a big uptick in interest and an expanded pool of new foundations and funders from adjacent issues. Institutions with a traditional focus on disaster relief, economic security, women’s... Read more »

Federal Aid Is Propping Up Child Care. It Isn’t a Long-Term Fix.

By cooper.joslin on January 12, 2022

Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts) Many of the recent proposals will likely be funded by American Rescue Plan Act funds—even if governors aren’t making that explicit, said Anne Hedgepeth, deputy chief of policy for Child Care Aware of America, a nonprofit that works with child care resource and referral agencies and advocates for child care policies. ... Read more »

What’s Next for the Build Back Better Act?

By cooper.joslin on January 11, 2022

While the path to passing the Build Back Better (BBB) Act has come with its fair share of challenges and setbacks, there is still momentum in Congress to pass the investments in affordable, high-quality child care and mixed-delivery preschool.  

WATCH: Helms joins CCAoA Board of Directors

By cooper.joslin on January 4, 2022

Hot Springs Sentinel-Record (AR) Terri Helms, program director of Child Care Aware West Central Arkansas at National Park College, will join the board of directors of Child Care Aware of America this month. “It’s an overwhelmingly humbling experience for me to be a part of a group that I so admire and respect,” Helms said... Read more »

CCAoA Welcomes New Board Members

By cooper.joslin on December 17, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America  welcomes three new members to its Board of Directors who will assume their positions in January 2022.     

Child care hiring crisis is closing programs and keeping parents out of workforce

By cooper.joslin on December 16, 2021

CNN.com The average annual cost of child care nationwide is more than $10,000 per kid, according to Child Care Aware of America. For the average couple, that’s roughly 10% of their income. For single parents, it’s 35%. President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better bill — which passed the House in November but whose future is uncertain in... Read more »

What is Your Small Act of Courage for Child Care This Holiday Season?

By cooper.joslin on December 10, 2021

What are small acts of courage for child care? Why are they important and who can make a difference?   An advocate from Child Care Aware® of America’s network is a child care provider and single mother whose small acts of courage are creating a better future for her own children and countless others in her... Read more »

Winter and Holiday Safety Tips for Child Care Providers

By cooper.joslin on December 10, 2021

Remember, as winter approaches, it can bring with it additional hazards. Child care providers can take steps to keep children safe from winter hazards such as extreme cold, snow, ice and the use of holiday decorations.   

Child Care and Emergency Management: Partnerships and Collaboration for Community Resilience

By cooper.joslin on December 9, 2021

Child Care Aware of America Launches Future of Quality Child Care Initiative

By cooper.joslin on December 1, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced today that it is launching the Future of Quality Child Care Initiative, an in-depth examination of how child care quality can be improved when inequities are removed, parent preferences are affirmed, and all providers are valued equally.   CCAoA approaches this topic with a level of curiosity and purpose... Read more »

CCAoA Statement on House Passage of Build Back Better Act

By cooper.joslin on November 19, 2021

Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America, released the following statement in response to passage of the Build Back Better Act in the House of Representatives:  Today we are one step closer to making an accessible, affordable child care system a reality for families and children across the country. To the... Read more »

How the pandemic has forced a new generation of latchkey kids

By cooper.joslin on November 15, 2021

TODAY Show (NBC) Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Overnight, millions of children became latchkey kids as after school programs shuttered, and remaining programs raised prices and reduced available slots. “Having 7.7 million children in 2020 who don’t have access to care and are left alone and unsupervised is certainly a concern,” Dr. Lynette Fraga, CEO... Read more »

Federal Relief Funds: State Progress, Fall 2021

By cooper.joslin on November 4, 2021

The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act allocated $39 billion in dedicated child care relief funding to states. The ARP Act funds began to flow to states during spring 2021, with the intention to get funds out the door and provide relief to providers and families as quickly as possible.  

Involving Children in Child Care Emergency Preparedness

By cooper.joslin on November 4, 2021

Breaking Down the Build Back Better Act

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2021

On Thursday, October 28, President Biden announced a new framework for the Build Back Better Act, which includes $400 billion for child care and early learning investments over the next 6 years. If the Build Back Better Act is signed into law, it will dramatically transform the child care and early learning system for nearly every family with young children, as well as for child care providers.  

Promoting STEAM in Early Childhood

By cooper.joslin on October 29, 2021

On many hot summer days, my Uncle Preston would drive down from Alexandria, VA to White Oak, VA in my Aunt Margret’s silver T-Top to pick me up for one of our many adventures. Summertime was always a great time of the year only if I didn’t have to go to summer school. He would... Read more »

Examining CCR&Rs Role in Planning and Developing EHS-CC Partnerships

By cooper.joslin on October 29, 2021

One of Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (CCR&Rs) most important roles is to collect and help make sense of important data on child care needs and trends in their communities. Families, child care providers and stakeholders want to know the price of child care in their area as they explore options for their children,... Read more »

CCAoA Statement on the Announcement of the Build Back Better Framework

By cooper.joslin on October 28, 2021

Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America, released the following statement in response to the Build Back Better Framework:   Today, President Joe Biden announced the framework for the Build Back Better Act, which includes $400 billion for child care and early learning investments over 6 years. Child Care Aware of America... Read more »

Biden’s finishing what Obama started with early learning

By cooper.joslin on October 27, 2021

The Hill Op-ed by Mario Cardona, CCAoA Chief of Policy and Practice President Biden’s child care and universal preschool proposals have received a lot of attention, much of it focused on whether the proposals will survive negotiations in the Senate around what to maintain in the Build Back Better Act, the President’s “human infrastructure” bill. ... Read more »

Exacerbated by pandemic, child care crisis hampers economy

By cooper.joslin on October 27, 2021

Associated Press “Early learning is no longer seen as just a women’s issue or a children’s issue. It’s really seen as an economic issue. It’s about workforce participation,” said Mario Cardona, policy chief for Child Care Aware of America. “It’s about employers who don’t have to worry about whether they’ll be able to rely upon... Read more »

‘Crisis level’: Child care providers grapple with a worker shortage as federal relief is slow to help

By cooper.joslin on October 10, 2021

USA Today State administrators are trying to balance the need to act quickly while also making wise investments in using the COVID relief dollars, said Mario Cardona, chief of policy and practice of advocacy group Child Care Aware of America. “A lot of these systems are not built to serve as many as we’re hoping to... Read more »

Reflections on the 2022-2024 CCDF Public Input Process

By cooper.joslin on October 8, 2021

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program is a state and federal partnership used to provide assistance to low-income families to access child care, as well as build supply and improve program quality. Since 2016, states, territories and tribes have been required to outline how they will use this dedicated federal funding over a three-year... Read more »

Biden’s child, elder care proposals come with a hefty price tag. But can they transform the industry?

By cooper.joslin on September 30, 2021

USA Today Mario Cardona, chief of policy and practice at Child Care Aware of America, also points to economic reverberations later in life. Mothers who are forced to work part-time or leave their jobs entirely to care for their children aren’t able to put more money into their 401(k) plan or other mechanisms that exist... Read more »

Can the U.S. create universal pre-K without repeating past mistakes?

By cooper.joslin on September 30, 2021

The 19th “The reality is if we can get this done, we are still going to have to work with states,” said Anne Hedgepeth, the senior director of federal and state government affairs at Child Care Aware of America, a child care advocacy group. “That’s where we can really also create the guardrails needed to... Read more »

Families struggle to afford childcare

By cooper.joslin on September 29, 2021

CBS Evening News CCAoA CEO Lynette Fraga spoke with CBS News Chief White House Correspondent Nancy Cordes about the current state of child care and how the federal funding proposal will help parents. Watch the story

Building Resiliency in Caregivers & Children

By cooper.joslin on September 29, 2021

Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies stepped up and supported child care providers within their service areas in assisting with supplies, personal protective equipment and many other needs of child care programs. One of the most common themes or needs identified by child care professionals was support for the social-emotional... Read more »

Virtual Coaching Considerations

By cooper.joslin on September 27, 2021

As shared in the previous blog entitled “Virtual Coaching: Lessons Learned During the Pandemic,” transitioning to virtual coaching required professional development providers to anticipate and prepare for the changes and adaptations needed to make the shift from in-person to virtual coaching. Issues such as new technologies, equipment, training, recruiting providers, and virtual platforms need to... Read more »

Use Relationships to Support Early Head Start-Child Care Partnerships

By cooper.joslin on September 24, 2021

Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (CCR&Rs) have an extensive history of successfully partnering with outside organizations and businesses to respond effectively to the needs of the child care community. This history places CCR&Rs in a unique position to leverage these relationships to develop the capacity of their organizations to build, grow and assist in... Read more »

Case Study: How to Boost Your Child Care Business’ Reputation

By cooper.joslin on September 23, 2021

“I had so much fun on Thursday taking the parenting class with my husband & we made some new friends too while we were there. I will definitely keep going back every time.”  “Such an awesome resource for children and families. Their staff is kind and caring and always make you feel welcomed.”  “A-M-A-Z-I-N-G STAFF!!!!! Incredible resources! I love this place! There is... Read more »

Setting the Stage for Universal Preschool

By cooper.joslin on September 21, 2021

The pandemic has resulted in state and federal policymakers taking notice of the essential role child care plays. Child care has been prioritized as an issue desperately needing support and has been included in each of the three relief packages to date. But relief funds have only provided temporary solutions for the child care system... Read more »

What Does the Build Back Better Act Mean for Child Care?

By cooper.joslin on September 20, 2021

Year after year, CCAoA’s annual research report has found that the price of child care is too high for too many families. The good news is that change may be coming. Earlier this year, President Biden proposed big investments in child care and preschool. This month, Congress has put pen to paper and crafted legislation,... Read more »

StoryCorps Interview: Lessons Learned During the Pandemic

By cooper.joslin on September 15, 2021

StoryCorps, a national nonprofit whose mission is to record, preserve and share the stories of Americans from all backgrounds, and Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) recently partnered on a project to interview child care providers. The providers were asked about their personal journey in the child care field and the impact of COVID-19 on... Read more »

September is National Preparedness Month

By cooper.joslin on September 7, 2021

Each September, we commemorate National Preparedness Month to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. Ready.gov has announced that this annual event’s theme for 2021 is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.”

Lessons on Child Care, From the Military

By cooper.joslin on August 31, 2021

New York Times But the experience of the military provides crucial lessons. Before its transformation, the military child care system was plagued by many of the same problems that plague America’s national child care system today: no clear teaching standards, inconsistent quality and low teacher pay, said Lynette Fraga, chief executive of Child Care Aware... Read more »

Virtual Coaching: Lessons Learned During the Pandemic

By cooper.joslin on August 31, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic forced rapid changes upon the field of early care and education and dictated a re-examination of how many of its traditional systems and services are offered. Professional development is one such system, particularly traditional one-on-one coaching models. For many years, the norm was face-to-face coaching support, but the pandemic required the field to face a new reality. How do we balance offering this much-needed aspect of professional development while protecting the health and safety of staff and children?  

We Need Your Perspective! Join the CCAoA Board of Directors

By cooper.joslin on August 27, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to announce the call for nominations for its 2022 Board of Directors.  With the nation’s attention now on the needs of the child care system, we have a “moment in a movement” to build a better, more equitable system – one that works for and supports children, families, child care providers and... Read more »

Federal Relief Funds: State Progress, Summer 2021

By cooper.joslin on August 26, 2021

Since the CARES Act was enacted in April 2020, two additional federal relief packages have been passed by Congress that include significant increases in emergency funding for child care: the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. These funds began to flow to states during the spring with the intention... Read more »

Case Study: What Does it Take to Rebrand a CCR&R?

By cooper.joslin on August 26, 2021

In response to an evolving organizational structure and to changes in the child care field, Child Care Answers will launch a campaign in late August announcing its amicable split from Early Learning Indiana. As a part of this split, Child Care Answers undertook a rebranding initiative. Executive Director Mollie Smith explains how they went about... Read more »

COVID-19’s Impact on the Child Care Industry

By cooper.joslin on August 21, 2021

Think Tank with Steve Adubato (New Jersey PBS) Steve Adubato speaks with Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO, Child Care Aware of America, about the ways the COVID crisis impacted the child care industry, the challenges families face in accessing affordable, quality child care, and the importance of the Biden administration’s plans for child care and... Read more »

CCAoA Supports Mask Wearing in Child Care Settings to Protect Children and Adults

By cooper.joslin on August 16, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America supports the use of face masks in child care settings for adults and children ages 2 and older regardless of vaccination status. This should continue to be part of a comprehensive strategy to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of children and adults.   According to the... Read more »

StoryCorps Interview: Navigating Child Care Before and During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on August 13, 2021

StoryCorps, a national nonprofit whose mission is to record, preserve and share the stories of Americans from all backgrounds, and Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) recently partnered on a project to interview child care providers. The providers were asked about their personal journey in the child care field and the impact of COVID-19 on... Read more »

CCAoA Statement on Senate Passage of Budget Reconciliation Framework

By cooper.joslin on August 11, 2021

Mario Cardona, Child Care Aware® of America’s Chief of Policy and Practice, released the following statement in response to Senate-passage of an FY22 Budget Resolution: The Senate’s vote today paves the way for Congress to make much needed, long-term investments in child care. While this is only the first step in the budget reconciliation process,... Read more »

Explore our Employer Benefits in the Child Care Career Center

By cooper.joslin on August 5, 2021

Have you experienced difficulty recruiting experienced, qualified staff? You are not alone. Child care professionals across the country have expressed a need for talented candidates to fill open positions within child care centers, homes and Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (CCR&Rs).  

Marketing Toolbox Provides CCAoA Members with Practical Support

By cooper.joslin on July 22, 2021

TikTok? E-newsletters? Direct mail? Communications tools and tactics are always changing, but the core principles remain unchanged.  

Advocates pressure Congress on child care investments

By cooper.joslin on July 19, 2021

The 19th As Senate Democrats  hammer out the final details of a $3.5 trillion package this week that is expected to include many of President Joe Biden’s proposals aimed at helping women and families, advocates for additional investments in child care are determined that lawmakers seize what they see as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for systemic... Read more »

“I can breathe a little bit more.” Millions to receive child tax credit payments

By cooper.joslin on July 15, 2021

Reuters Those are some of the ways about 39 million U.S. households could benefit once they start receiving monthly federal checks Thursday as part of a massive expansion of the child tax credit. The Center on Poverty and Social Policy at Columbia University estimates that the expansion can reduce the U.S. child poverty rate by... Read more »

Recalls for Sleep Products – What You can Do to Ensure Safe Sleep for Babies

By cooper.joslin on July 14, 2021

Infant sleep can be one of the hardest things a parent, provider or another caregiver must handle when caring for a baby. However, not all sleep places are created equal; in fact, some can be downright deadly.

PBS NewsHour Series on Child Care Features CCAoA CEO

By cooper.joslin on July 13, 2021

PBS NewsHour is airing a five-part series, entitled Raising the Future: America’s child care dilemma, from July 12-16 that provides an in-depth look at the state of child care across the country. Child Care Aware® of America CEO Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., is featured in the first segment on July 12, 2021.

The market controls child care costs in the U.S. Can that be changed?

By cooper.joslin on July 12, 2021

PBS NewsHour During the pandemic, the federal government spent more than $50 billion to shore up the child care industry. But advocates say cost and access are still big hurdles. Over the past several months, special correspondent Cat Wise and producer Kate McMahon traveled across the country for the series “Raising the future: America’s child... Read more »

Child Care Capacity Building — a Human Centered Design Approach

By cooper.joslin on July 12, 2021

  We are all lifelong learners. Granted, for some of us, the pursuit of learning is an inherent strength. For others, it can be a challenge, a heavier lift, but our changing world demands it of us. So for folks like me, where it most certainly is not a strength, we take a deep breath... Read more »

StoryCorps Interview: Founders of a Bilingual Child Care Center

By cooper.joslin on July 9, 2021

StoryCorps, a national nonprofit whose mission is to record, preserve and share the stories of Americans from all backgrounds, and Child Care Aware® of America recently partnered on a project to interview child care providers. The providers were asked about their personal journey in the child care field and the impact of COVID-19 on their work and life. 

5 Signs You’re Financially Ready to Have a Baby

By cooper.joslin on June 29, 2021

U.S. News & World Report Child care will likely be a family’s biggest expense during the first three to four years of their child’s life.  “It is unfortunate how much families have to consider this in their family planning. It should be a situation where there is care that is affordable and high quality nearby... Read more »

Congressional Child Care Champions Release Bold Legislative Proposals

By cooper.joslin on June 25, 2021

The past year showed just how essential child care is to the country and our economy. As the world reopens and parents return to work, policymakers are realizing that it is not sufficient to restore the child care sector to where it was prior to the pandemic.  

How to Amplify Your Advocacy Efforts using 2021 State Fact Sheets

By cooper.joslin on June 24, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America’s 2021 State Fact Sheets are now available. These fact sheets are updated annually in order to provide the most current, in-depth data and statistics about child care in U.S. states and territories. This year’s release covers 2020 and while not all states submitted their data by the deadline, that information... Read more »

Administration Prioritizes Child Care in Proposals

By cooper.joslin on June 23, 2021

The past year showed just how essential child care is to the country and its economy. As the world reopens and parents return to work, policymakers are realizing that it is not sufficient to restore the child care sector to where it was prior to the pandemic.   We have long known that despite the considerable investments that have been made for... Read more »

All about the new Child Care Career Center

By cooper.joslin on June 22, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is excited to announce a new tool to strengthen the child care system workforce — the Child Care Career Center. The Child Care Career Center connects employers to professionals in all parts of the child care system and career stages. We proud that our job board houses job postings... Read more »

CCAoA Certified as a Great Place to Work

By cooper.joslin on June 17, 2021

Most people will spend about a third of their lives at work. With that much time dedicated to a particular place and group of people, a work environment that is positive, motivated, fun and inspires employees to take joy in their work can yield huge benefits and overall success for both employees and the business. 

Will schools and day cares require masks or COVID-19 vaccines in fall 2021?

By cooper.joslin on June 17, 2021

USA Today There’s no national data on vaccination rates among early childhood education staff. However, a survey conducted in March by the CDC indicated that vaccination rates among preschool workers mirrored that of the general adult population, with younger respondents more likely to express hesitancy, according to Nikki Garro, director of early childhood health programs at Child... Read more »

The Return to the Office Is Pushing Even More Women Out of Work

By cooper.joslin on June 16, 2021

Bloomberg News While finding affordable child care in the U.S. was difficult before the pandemic, several factors are making returning to the workplace now especially tough for parents. First, young children are still not eligible for vaccination, so returning workers may be concerned about transmitting the virus to them, even if the parents are inoculated.... Read more »

Military will pay toward in-home child care for some families in pilot program

By cooper.joslin on June 16, 2021

Military Times Child Care Aware of America, the third-party administrator, on July 6 will start contacting parents who have requested in-home care through MilitaryChildCare.com with offers to participate in the pilot, as well as information about how to enroll, according to DoD spokeswoman Lisa Lawrence. Child Care Aware will oversee the program to verify service member and... Read more »

Texas Child Care Provider Shares Experience During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on June 8, 2021

StoryCorps, a national nonprofit whose mission is to record, preserve and share the stories of Americans from all backgrounds, and Child Care Aware® of America recently partnered on a project to interview child care providers. The providers were asked about their personal journey in the child care field and the impact of COVID-19 on their... Read more »

Guest Opinion: Ensuring early childhood systems work

By cooper.joslin on June 8, 2021

Boulder Daily Camera (CO) By Taran Schneider and Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D. Colorado has a unique opportunity to support its families and strengthen its economic recovery by taking advantage of recent unprecedented investments in early learning. In the past year, Colorado voters widely supported Proposition EE by a 2-1 margin, which will drive funding to... Read more »

The Value of Shared Services

By cooper.joslin on June 4, 2021

Family child care providers work hard to maintain their businesses. Aside from caring for children, they also must track billing and attendance, maintain the cleanliness of their facilities, market their businesses, find supplies, seek out professional development opportunities and much more. Providers – particularly in home-based settings – often perform these additional tasks outside of... Read more »

Stabilization Grant Guidance FAQs

By cooper.joslin on June 2, 2021

The Office of Child Care (OCC) has released guidance on the $24 billion Child Care Stabilization grants made available through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. The purpose of the guidance is to help states quickly distribute the stabilizations funds to protect and support the existing child care market. As the guidance emphasizes, this funding represents an important opportunity for states to stabilize and rebuild a stronger child care system that meets the diverse needs of all children and families, and of the child care workforce.  

New State-by-State Data Shows Pandemic’s Impact on Child Care

By cooper.joslin on June 2, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today released new state-by-state data on child care supply and capacity, quality rating and improvement systems (QRIS) and Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency services from the year 2020.   Of the 45 states that reported information, from 2019 to 2020, 25 states reported a decrease in the number... Read more »

Child care costs $17,000 a year for California parents. Would Biden plan help?

By cooper.joslin on June 1, 2021

McClatchy DC Mario Cardona, chief of policy and practice at Child Care Aware of America, said the tax breaks are “meaningful improvements to ensure families have the resources they need to access child care, and promote the health and well-being of their children.” But, Cardona said, “They are not a replacement for a direct investment... Read more »

Introducing: The Child Care and Interoperability Series

By cooper.joslin on May 28, 2021

High-quality child care data are essential to informed decision-making. Accurate data are needed to answer questions such as: how many children are being served in programs nationwide? What areas are experiencing gaps in the supply of child care? Where should we target more resources and supports? Currently, a lot of child care data are collected by multiple sources in the nonprofit and... Read more »

Re-imagining our Child Care System

By cooper.joslin on May 27, 2021

  Child care is a two-generation workforce issue — with access to high-quality child care being crucial to supporting a highly skilled workforce and vital to developing our workforce of tomorrow. Child Care Aware® of America explored the child care landscape in their report, The U.S. and the High Price of Child Care: An Examination... Read more »

States have never had this much money for child care. Could this be a turning point for the industry?

By cooper.joslin on May 24, 2021

The 19th When it was passed in March, President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan included the single largest allocation for child care in the nation’s history: $39 billion. That’s more money than the United States has spent on child care in the past five years combined. Combined with the billions in child care aid already... Read more »

Interoperability: Why Child Care Data Systems Need to Talk

By cooper.joslin on May 20, 2021

Do you remember when you created a document on your Apple computer and tried to share it with a colleague using the Microsoft platform? If you wanted feedback, forget it. The file was unreadable. You could jump through hoops to try to convert your document, but it took time and energy. Your productivity sank.

Child Care Collaboration: Foundational Support for the Workforce of Tomorrow

By cooper.joslin on May 20, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought child care challenges to the forefront of families, businesses and legislatures minds. In a recent series of state-specific surveys completed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, referred to as the Untapped Potential economic impact reports, it was found that child care issues resulted in anywhere from $479 million to $3.47... Read more »

Investments in child care facilities are critical to building a more equitable system of care

By cooper.joslin on May 14, 2021

The Hechinger Report A little more than a month ago, President Biden announced his American Jobs Plan, which includes $25 billion to invest in facilities upgrades in child care settings and to build the supply of infant and toddler care. The plan also includes investments to replace all lead pipes and service lines in drinking... Read more »

CCR&Rs Can Provide Essential Support As Summer Programs Reopen

By cooper.joslin on May 13, 2021

When matched with children’s interests, summer camps with safe, healthy environments and practices can be fun places for children to learn and grow. Whether they’re day camps or sleepaways, summer camps can support children’s learning and development. Camps can also serve as safe places for children to be while their parents are at work.

One key to getting women back to work post-pandemic: Childcare

By cooper.joslin on May 6, 2021

Reuters The number of licensed childcare providers was 13% lower in December than it was a year earlier, according to the most recent figures available from Child Care Aware of America, a national organization that advocates for broader access to quality childcare. “Once parents start going back to work, particularly mothers who are going to... Read more »

Providers & Families Share their Experiences during the Pandemic

By cooper.joslin on May 6, 2021

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the child care system in the United States was already fragile and underfunded. The U.S. spends less than 0.5% of GDP on child care, which is far lower than the majority of developed countries. In addition, children of color and children from low-income families are less likely to be enrolled in... Read more »

Oregon Wildfire Impact on Child Care

By cooper.joslin on May 6, 2021

2020 was a challenging year for everyone. Not only did the nation deal with the challenges, fears and losses associated with a global pandemic, but many individuals across the country were faced with an added hurdle of natural disasters during an already stressful and difficult time.  

CCAoA to Lead Provider Appreciation Day on May 7

By cooper.joslin on May 3, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) will lead Provider Appreciation Day® on May 7 to recognize and celebrate the efforts of child care providers across the country in what has been a year of tremendous challenge for child care.  “Child care providers were ‘essential’ long before the pandemic, and the past year has highlighted the... Read more »

America can’t afford the cost of inaction on child care

By cooper.joslin on April 30, 2021

The Hill The pandemic and economic downturn of the past year thrust America’s child care crisis into the spotlight, providing an unprecedented opportunity for lawmakers not just to stabilize the child care system, but also to dramatically improve the lives of children, families and caregivers.    Now, as the Biden administration and Congress move swiftly to... Read more »

Practical Steps to Prepare for and Respond to Child Care Disruptions

By cooper.joslin on April 29, 2021

Disruptions to the child care industry due to the COVID-19 pandemic have created financial hardships and other challenges for child care providers. Child care programs that were closed may re-open only to close again due to outbreaks of the virus in their program, an uptick in community spread, staff shortages or simply because their business... Read more »

CCAoA Statement in Response to President Biden’s American Families Plan

By cooper.joslin on April 28, 2021

Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America, released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden’s American Families Plan:  “With the announcement of the American Families Plan and its robust investment in child care and early learning, President Biden is charting a course forward for us to build the society... Read more »

President Biden’s proposal could save some families nearly $15,000 a year on child care

By cooper.joslin on April 28, 2021

WTSP (CBS/Tampa) Child care is now more expensive than the cost of college tuition in roughly half the country. That’s one of the statistics Mario Cardona usually leads off with when talking about the financial challenges facing some working parents when it comes to finding high-quality care for their children. Cardona is the chief of... Read more »

Our second COVID summer: Finding care and enrichment opportunities for your school-age child

By cooper.joslin on April 23, 2021

Afterschool Snack (blog of the Afterschool Alliance) By Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America, and Mindy Bennett, Deputy Chief of Membership & Programs at Child Care Aware® of America It is tough to imagine a summer for our school-age children as so many of us are grappling with decisions about... Read more »

Congress Reintroduces Legislation to Invest in the Future of Child Care

By cooper.joslin on April 22, 2021

Mario Cardona, Child Care Aware® of America’s Chief of Policy and Practice, released the following statement in response to the reintroduction of the Child Care for Working Families Act:  “The Child Care for Working Families Act would make progress toward solving some of the most critical challenges facing the child care system today, and Child... Read more »

Child Abuse Prevention Strategies for Providers

By cooper.joslin on April 21, 2021

  April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. In most states, child care providers are mandated reporters and have been trained to recognize signs that a child is experiencing abuse and respond appropriately. However, child care providers can also play a role in preventing child abuse before it begins. Stress and lack of parenting skills can... Read more »

CCAoA Collaborates with The WIT Project to Improve Website and Provide Real-World Experience for Women STEM Students

By cooper.joslin on April 19, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) and the <wit> project are collaborating on a four-month project to improve CCAoA’s ability to quickly add content and resources to its website. The <wit> project team consists of six women science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) students from the City University of New York (CUNY) who are working... Read more »

Biden Admin Addresses Child Care Crisis for Families of Color

By cooper.joslin on April 16, 2021

Black News Channel There is a new lifeline for childcare. The Biden Administration announced the release of $39 billion to help the child care crisis caused by the pandemic and the domino effect is that it is designed to lift up women and reduce the gender pay gap. The administration hopes the new funding from... Read more »

The child care industry collapsed during COVID-19, so Biden’s giving it $39B from the stimulus

By cooper.joslin on April 15, 2021

USA Today The Biden administration on Thursday will release nearly $40 billion of the administration’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package to confront what President Joe Biden has called an “acute, immediate child care crisis,” distributing money to help providers pay their rent and rehire workers made jobless by the pandemic, as well as make child... Read more »

Child Care is Essential: Celebrating Provider Appreciation Day® May 7

By cooper.joslin on April 13, 2021

  Celebrate child care professionals on May 7! Join Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) in saying thank you to providers for taking care of our nation’s children. To say that being a child care provider this past year has been challenging would be an understatement. Providers were essential long before COVID-19, but the pandemic... Read more »

Working families face a childcare crisis. This panel will explain how it affects us all

By cooper.joslin on April 9, 2021

Miami Herald Virtual Panel Discussion Even before the pandemic era, working families often struggled to find safe, affordable and convenient childcare. COVID-19 has worsened the situation. Even as South Florida vaccinates and emerges from restrictions, childcare remains a significant obstacle to upward mobility. Mario Cardona, CCAoA’s Chief of Policy and Practice, participated in this virtual... Read more »

COVID-19: CCR&R Successes During Unprecedented Times

By cooper.joslin on April 7, 2021

As the COVID-19 pandemic inundated the child care system, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) received helpful funds from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy to support and provide relief to Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) member organizations across the country. In the summer and fall of 2020, CCAoA used the funds to provide CCR&Rs with resources to... Read more »

Child Care Staff and the COVID-19 Vaccine

By cooper.joslin on April 5, 2021

With millions of COVID-19 cases nationwide, child care providers have had to maneuver and innovate in extraordinary ways to address health and safety concerns while still experiencing reduced income or program closures. Imagine the day child care professionals can gather with staff to care for children and support families without the concern of contracting COVID-19.... Read more »

Knoxville child care owners reflect on a year in a pandemic

By cooper.joslin on April 5, 2021

Knoxville News-Sentinel The pandemic meant a lot of child care agencies closed, and some of those have remained closed. Child Care Aware of America compared data between December 2019 and July 2020 and found that 35% of child care centers remained closed and 21% of family child care programs were closed. Since presenting those findings,... Read more »

How Biden’s infrastructure plan could leave child care behind

By cooper.joslin on April 3, 2021

Vox President Joe Biden’s American Jobs Plan is expansive and ambitious, a $2 trillion infrastructure package that includes money for roads and bridges, home health care for seniors, measures to fight climate change, and more. One thing it doesn’t say much about, though, is child care. But some worry that by the time that second... Read more »

Mass Exodus: Pandemic Forces Women Out of the Workforce

By cooper.joslin on April 2, 2021

Tokyo Business Today As women around the world celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, a startling reality sunk in. 47 million women – the equivalent of the entire country of Spain – have dropped out of the labor force due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to the United Nations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor... Read more »

6 Ways Child Care Providers Support Families Returning to Child Care

By cooper.joslin on April 1, 2021

COVID-19 has sent many of us on a winding road of change and unprecedented challenges. As we now have three vaccines for the virus and the number of cases is starting to go down, many communities are starting to open up and return to a more “Pre-COVID-19” life. For many families, this means children returning... Read more »

Child Care in Crisis: Can Biden’s Plan Save It?

By cooper.joslin on March 31, 2021

New York Times These stories, from four different parts of the United States, aren’t isolated pockets of struggle. They are emblematic of a larger problem that has been widely acknowledged by people from the Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell to Amy Schumer: America’s child-care industry is in crisis. Initially, as parents pulled their children out... Read more »

CCAoA Statement in Response to President Biden’s American Jobs Plan

By cooper.joslin on March 31, 2021

Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America, released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden’s American Jobs Plan:  “We agree with President Biden that investment in the facilities and the supply of the child care system is needed as we work to build back from the pandemic. Our economy... Read more »

COVID-19 shattered childcare. Experts want to fix it

By cooper.joslin on March 29, 2021

Miami Herald Mario Cardona knows child care is critical. He’s currently chief of policy and practice at Child Care Aware of America, a nonprofit that helps families access care. In his former role as a congressional staffer, he wrote and led staff negotiations to pass the Child Care & Development Block Grant Act of 2014,... Read more »

Supporting Early Literacy Through Innovative Partnerships & Resources

By cooper.joslin on March 26, 2021

Each time parents or caregivers spend time reading books with children, the neural pathways in their brains are strengthened. In a recent blog, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) celebrated National Reading Month and shared ideas for engaging families to promote the importance of reading with children to ensure continued learning and support early brain... Read more »

Federal Relief Funds: Policy Considerations for States in 2021

By cooper.joslin on March 24, 2021

Update: With news that the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is now law, Child Care Aware of America is republishing this resource to support states as they consider spending child care relief funds. ARPA provides $39 billion in child care relief, of which $15 billion in additional funding is made available through the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). These funds can... Read more »

If Not Now, When? It’s Time to Transform Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 22, 2021

Morning Consult President Joe Biden has signed the American Rescue Plan into law, granting $40 billion in child care funding and providing much-needed relief to providers, parents and children alike. This child care relief is notable for three reasons: First, it is the largest investment this country has ever made in child care, and is... Read more »

Billions of Covid relief dollars are going to child care. Here’s why advocates say more needs to be done to fix the crisis

By cooper.joslin on March 18, 2021

CNBC.com There already was a child-care crisis in America. Then Covid hit. Child-care centers shut down. Working parents lost care and child-care workers found themselves without jobs. Parents, namely mothers, left jobs or reduced hours to fill the gap. “Before the pandemic, the U.S. child-care system was in trouble,” said Mario Cardona, chief of policy... Read more »

Latest Round of Covid Relief Provides Nearly $50 Billion for Child Care Sector

By cooper.joslin on March 18, 2021

Cheddar Mario Cardona, chief of policy and practice at Child Care Aware of America and former senior policy advisor for the Obama Administration, discusses how the latest round of coronavirus relief impacts the child care sector and whether the U.S. has done enough to help. Watch the interview.

Spring Break 101 for 2021

By cooper.joslin on March 16, 2021

The temperature is rising, and spring is in the air! As we edge slowly out of winter and increasingly spend more time outside our homes, we cannot dismiss the COVID-19 pandemic that continues to hang on. We are more than a year into this pandemic, and our second Spring Break season since the pandemic started... Read more »

March 14-20: Celebrating the Child and Adult Care Food Program

By cooper.joslin on March 15, 2021

What is CACFP? 

Child Care Providers Get Billions in Covid-19 Relief Law

By cooper.joslin on March 15, 2021

Wall Street Journal The coronavirus relief law signed by President Biden last week pours nearly $50 billion into child care in a bid to keep struggling daycare centers from closing just as the people who rely on them return to work.  Child-care providers will get about $40 billion for operating expenses and tuition assistance for... Read more »

CDC updates safety guidelines for child care centers as many struggle to stay in business

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2021

MarketWatch The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released updated guidance Friday providing strategies to help child care operators offer in-person care safely.  Though some child care providers closed at the outset of the pandemic, many reopened early on and have remained open for months. As of December 2020, 13% of child care centers... Read more »

Congress greenlights a $40 billion bailout for the child-care industry

By cooper.joslin on March 10, 2021

CNBC.com With the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act on Wednesday, American families and child-care providers can look forward to a roughly $40 billion infusion for an industry rocked with closures and dramatically increased operating costs amid the pandemic. “This critical funding will save thousands of providers from permanent closure and help families across... Read more »

CCAoA Statement in Response to Congress Passing American Rescue Plan

By cooper.joslin on March 10, 2021

Today, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package with $39 billion in child care relief funding. The $39 billion in dedicated child care funding provides $15 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) and $24 billion for a child care stabilization fund. 

Introducing: The Child Care Emergency Planning Video Series

By cooper.joslin on March 1, 2021

Ensuring children’s health and safety in child care is the top concern for any child care program, and child care emergency preparedness is vital to meeting this need. One way providers can strengthen safety practices in a child care program is to have a written emergency plan.    Child care providers run an evacuation drill with infants in 2019.

Building Brains with Books! Kick off National Reading Month on March 2

By cooper.joslin on February 26, 2021

Get ready to read! March is National Reading Month, and children across America will kick off the month-long celebration starting Tuesday, March 2 – National Read Across America Day. Whether you’re planning one big Read Across America Day celebration or activities throughout the month of March, the celebration is designed to encourage families and children... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Supports the Raise the Wage Act

By cooper.joslin on February 25, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) recently joined over 300 local, state and national organizations in support of the Raise the Wage Act of 2021. The Raise the Wage Act of 2021 would: Incrementally raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025 and After 2025, adjust the minimum wage each year to keep... Read more »

Important Updates to the Paycheck Protection Program for Small Businesses

By cooper.joslin on February 24, 2021

In December 2020, Congress funded a new Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new PPP is more flexible than the original and allows prior PPP loan recipients to apply for a second loan under certain conditions. The PPP is now open for applications. 

Covering the Pandemic Child Care Crisis

By cooper.joslin on February 24, 2021

The Educated Reporter (Education Writers Association blog) “COVID really just highlighted the pre-existing situations and challenges of the early childhood system across the nation,” said Dionne Dobbins, the senior director of research at Child Care Aware of America, a research and advocacy group. “When COVID hit, it was layering it on top of a very... Read more »

Analysis Shows Child Care Supply & Attendance Better, but Still Suffering

By cooper.joslin on February 22, 2021

In September 2020, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) released a report entitled Picking Up the Pieces: Building a Better Child Care System Post COVID-19. We compared child care supply data pre-COVID-19 (December 2019) to supply during COVID-19 (July 2020). Unsurprisingly, we found that the supply of licensed child care declined dramatically after the pandemic began. When compared to December 2019, 35% of... Read more »

She was arrested for leaving her kids while she worked. An outpouring of sympathy followed.

By cooper.joslin on February 19, 2021

The Lily/Washington Post Bell’s story underscores the structural problems that fail to support struggling parents — especially women of color — in a society too quick to render someone’s fate to the incarceration system, experts say. Mario Cardona, chief of policy and practice at Child Care Aware of America, said high-quality child care just isn’t an option... Read more »

In Some States, Child Care Workers Won’t Get the Covid Vaccine for Months

By cooper.joslin on February 17, 2021

The Nation magazine According to an analysis by Child Care Aware of America, while 40 states have included child care providers in the same eligibility tier as K-12 educators, five of them—Kentucky, Oklahoma, Ohio, Utah, and Wyoming—and Washington, D.C., put K-12 teachers ahead of those teaching and caring for children at younger ages. Like Rhode Island,... Read more »

‘It’s not going to solve the problem’: Democrats unveil ambitious child-care tax credit, but will it be enough?

By cooper.joslin on February 9, 2021

MarketWatch As lawmakers debate how to get financially struggling Americans through the pandemic, one idea is more cash for families with children, with payments structured like mini-stimulus checks coming monthly. In a child-care system where prices are rising and spots are contracting, however, the question is how much of dent these proposals can make for... Read more »

The Cost of Child Care: Know Your Options

By cooper.joslin on February 8, 2021

Money Geek Child Care Aware of America’s [2019] report on child care costs found the national average price is between $9,100–$9,600 a year for one child. That number does not reflect what most people pay but is an average across all states. It’s essential to look at child care costs based on age and type,... Read more »

Go, Trevor Noah, Go!

By cooper.joslin on February 5, 2021

On Wednesday, comedian and host of The Daily Show Trevor Noah devoted a portion of his nightly show to talk about – child care. He spent 10 minutes exploring the many flaws of our current child care system. But his most pointed criticism was aimed at the way child care in the U.S. is funded.

Virtual Consultation Visits: CCR&Rs Adapting During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on February 4, 2021

“Good morning! I sure have missed your smiling face! Could we set up a virtual visit this week so I could see you and we could talk about how everything is going in your program?” As funny as this may sound, this has gotten one of our outstanding consultants many virtual visits. Connections are so... Read more »

CCAoA Data Featured on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah

By cooper.joslin on February 4, 2021

Child Care Aware® of America’s data on the high price of child care was featured on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah:

Partnering with Families for Child Care Emergency Preparedness

By cooper.joslin on February 2, 2021

Families put a lot of trust in child care providers every day. Part of that trust is knowing that children will be safe and cared for in any situation, including during and after an emergency. Child care providers who plan ahead are better-prepared and will know what to do to respond to an emergency and keep the children in their care safe. By planning and preparing in advance, they are also able to recover faster after... Read more »

They’ve nurtured our babies through COVID-19 horrors; now, child care workers aren’t sure when they’ll get vaccinated

By cooper.joslin on February 1, 2021

USA Today For the hundreds of thousands of low-income parents who rely on subsidized preschool services, those programs do much more than care for and educate their children. They provide nutritious meals and health screenings, resources to support housing stability and financial security.   That, advocates argue, attests to the crucial role such programs play in the... Read more »

4 Strategies for Teaching Black History in Early Learning Programs

By cooper.joslin on February 1, 2021

  Each February, we set aside each time to celebrate Black History Month (BHM). The observance of BHM is a sort of antidote to the lack of Black history being embedded in general American history the rest of the year. We must understand that when we leave Black American or any other culture’s contributions out... Read more »

What President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Could Mean for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on January 28, 2021

Earlier this month, President Biden announced the details of his $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package, the American Rescue Plan. The proposal provides emergency relief to families and businesses during the economic crisis created by the coronavirus pandemic. The plan includes executive actions the President quickly implemented after taking office. The Executive Order on Supporting the... Read more »

La calidad del aire exterior y el cuidado infantil

By cooper.joslin on January 21, 2021

¡Nuevo recurso sobre la salud y la seguridad ambiental!

By cooper.joslin on January 19, 2021

  La salud y la seguridad en los entornos de cuidado infantil son fundamentales en todo momento. La pandemia de COVID-19 ha ampliado las responsabilidades de los proveedores de cuidado infantil para garantizar que el medio ambiente sea seguro y saludable. Un nuevo recurso de CCAoA, La salud ambiental y la seguridad en los entornos... Read more »

CCAoA Statement in Response to President-elect Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan

By cooper.joslin on January 15, 2021

Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America, released the following statement in response to President-elect Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan: “President-elect Biden’s bold plan to rescue our communities and help us fight COVID-19 is sorely needed. On the heels of dispiriting news about the growing spread of the virus and the... Read more »

Steps Child Care Programs Can Take to Feel Prepared for Any Emergency

By cooper.joslin on January 14, 2021

You may have seen reports of potential violence across the country leading up to the Presidential inauguration on January 20. We have heard from child care providers concerned about their program safety, the safety of their families and staff, and whether they should remain open for the next several days. 

La limpieza y desinfección en programas de cuidado infantil

By cooper.joslin on January 14, 2021

Las agencias de recursos y referencias del cuidado infantil (CCR&R) y los proveedores se han puesto en contacto con Child Care Aware® of America con preguntas sobre cómo asegurarse de que sus programas se limpien correctamente y estén listos cuando los programas de cuidado infantil se reabran. Primero, es importante comprender la diferencia entre limpiar,... Read more »

About 700,000 parents with young kids left the workforce in 2020. For many, loss of child care was to blame.

By cooper.joslin on January 13, 2021

The 19th A fresh round of stimulus could help the industry regain some of its footing. Congress has allocated $10 billion in funding for child care, including $250 million for Head Start, the federal program that subsidizes early childhood education. Most of that money will go to grants for child care providers who need help... Read more »

A Look Back at Child Care in the 2020 Election

By cooper.joslin on January 6, 2021

  The 2020 election cycle set a record for voter turnout. Preliminary estimates show that more Americans— about two-thirds of eligible voters— voted in 2020 than in any other election in U.S. history. And in every single community, child care was on the ballot in the positions of the officials elected. In addition, in some communities child care, early... Read more »

What It Will Take to Transform Child Care in 2021

By cooper.joslin on January 5, 2021

At Child Care Aware® of America, we have seen child care become front page news. We have spoken with families, like the Aronoffs, struggling to access child care as providers close their doors. We have listened to providers, like Shaun Linton in Newark, Ohio, whose center has taken extraordinary measures to continue operating safely, despite a reduction in income.       What we have heard and continue to hear from providers and families... Read more »

Resolve to Be Ready in 2021

By cooper.joslin on January 5, 2021

  The new year is a great time to reassess and ramp up your child care program’s emergency preparedness plans. Ready.gov encourages families to Resolve to Be Ready and we would like to help child care programs be ready in 2021 as well.

Review of State Policies: COVID-19 Vaccination Distribution Plans

By cooper.joslin on January 4, 2021

Editor’s Note: This blog post was originally PUBLISH December 18, 2020 but has since been updated with updated information. For the most up-to-date information about states’ vaccine plans, please visit this page.  On December 11, 2020, the FDA granted emergency use authorization for one of several COVID-19 vaccines under development. Prior to this authorization, the... Read more »

Child Care is Essential for Economic Recovery

By cooper.joslin on December 26, 2020

Giving Compass By Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D. When COVID-19 was layered onto the already fragile child care system, it shattered. Many providers remain closed or are in danger of closing, parents are struggling to find child care arrangements that will allow them to work productively, and without a reliable, steady workforce, our country will not... Read more »

Bringing Business to the Table for Early Childhood Education in Nebraska

By cooper.joslin on December 23, 2020

Takeaways: First Five Nebraska is sparking the early childhood conversation among business leaders through research, policy change and strategic engagement. First Five Nebraska’s study, “The Bottom Line,” shows gaps in child care costs Nebraska nearly $1.4 billion annually in lost family income, business productivity and state revenues.

CCAoA Statement on Nomination of Miguel Cardona to Serve as Secretary of Education

By cooper.joslin on December 23, 2020

Today, President-elect Joe Biden announced the nomination of Connecticut Commissioner of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona to serve as U.S. Secretary of Education. Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America—the nation’s leading voice for child care—released the following statement:  Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to see Connecticut Commissioner of Education... Read more »

What Working Parents Need Above All Else Right Now, According to 6 Experts

By cooper.joslin on December 22, 2020

Fatherly So what do working parents really need? We rounded up six experts all of whom have different expertise about the needs of working parents, and asked each of them just that. Answers ranged from far-reaching policy changes to simple respites from the grind of working from a home filled with stir-crazy children. Here’s what... Read more »

Lessons from the Pandemic: Child Care for Essential Workers

By cooper.joslin on December 22, 2020

Takeaways: Adventist HealthCare’s investments were a direct result of what they heard from employees Partnering with organizations, such as The Lourie Center and KinderCare, allowed Adventist HealthCare to move quickly and rely on the expertise of those organizations At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, in March, companies had to quickly adjust in order to... Read more »

CCAoA Statement on Federal COVID-19 Relief and FY21 Funding

By cooper.joslin on December 22, 2020

This week, Congress officially approved both federal funding for the remainder of FY2021 and COVID-19 relief, providing support to child care and other early learning programs.   Funding for FY21 included:   $5.911 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) – an $85 million increase from FY 2020; and   $10.748 billion for Head Start/Early... Read more »

Employer Child Care Assistance Now and Looking Ahead

By cooper.joslin on December 22, 2020

Child care is not only crucial for the development of young children, but also essential for the millions of working parents with young children. Parents rely on child care to help them enter, re-enter or remain in the workforce, but access to affordable, quality child care is often a significant barrier for many. Due to... Read more »

Goal Setting for Greater Impact

By cooper.joslin on December 21, 2020

Everyone can acknowledge that 2020 has been a year like no other. Leading a team in this new reality has reinforced for me the importance of good leadership practices relevant to communication, engagement, expectation setting and accountability. Based on my experience, I recommend leaders incorporate a few strategies to maximize team impact.

Winter Break During the Pandemic: Play it Safe

By cooper.joslin on December 18, 2020

Winter break is right around the corner! 2020’s winter break (like most things) is impacted by COVID-19. The  pandemic continues to sweep the nation. As the weather has turned colder and people have retreated indoors, virus transmission rates are soaring to levels not yet seen since the pandemic began. We all must do our part to reduce community transmission of the virus that... Read more »

Mario Cardona to Join CCAoA as Chief of Policy and Practice

By cooper.joslin on December 16, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today announced that Mario Cardona is joining CCAoA on January 4, 2021, as its new Chief of Policy and Practice.  

CCAoA Welcomes New Board Members and Officers

By cooper.joslin on December 14, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) welcomes five new Board members and four new Board officers who will assume their positions in January 2021.    

New Papers Present Bold Ideas for Re-Envisioning the Child Care System

By cooper.joslin on December 10, 2020

As we take stock of this year-like-no-other, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) sees a glimmer of hope in all of the destruction and reflection wrought by COVID-19 and yet another racial reckoning for our nation. This glimmer of hope is the chance to completely rebuild our child care system. Today, CCAoA releases bold new... Read more »

CCAoA Statement on Nomination of Xavier Becerra to Serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services

By cooper.joslin on December 8, 2020

This week, President-elect Joe Biden announced the nomination of California Attorney General Xavier Becerra to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services. Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware® of America—the nation’s leading voice for child care—released the following statement:  Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to see California Attorney General... Read more »

Coronavirus takes toll on Black, Latino child care providers

By cooper.joslin on December 7, 2020

Associated Press “Prior to the pandemic, the child care system was fractured,” said Lynette Fraga, CEO of Child Care Aware of America. “Now, it’s shattered.” Even before the coronavirus, many parents already faced an impossible choice — caring for their children or earning a living. But COVID-19′s impact on the system has worsened that, Fraga... Read more »

Homelessness & COVID-19: How Can CCR&Rs and Child Care Programs Help?

By cooper.joslin on December 7, 2020

  More than one million children under the age of six are identified as experiencing homelessness. As job and income loss continues because of the COVID-19 economy, and as the COVID-19 eviction protections expire many more children and families may be at risk. These children and families find themselves in a particularly vulnerable situation during... Read more »

Business Continuity Planning for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on December 1, 2020

Business Continuity  Business continuity, sometimes referred to as continuity of operations planning (COOP), involves being able to resume normal operations after a disruptive incident, such as an emergency or natural disaster.  

Outdoor Play in a Pandemic: How Child Care Can Reach Its Full Potential

By cooper.joslin on November 30, 2020

Because of COVID-19, concerns for young children’s physical and mental well-being have skyrocketed. These concerns are magnified in children and caretakers experiencing compromised or vulnerable situations. That’s why the mental and physical health benefits of regular time outside is more important than ever. Now is the perfect time to improve and maximize your outdoor play... Read more »

Tips and Questions to Keep Child Care Providers and Families Healthy

By cooper.joslin on November 24, 2020

As many of us prepare to celebrate holidays, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to complicate our routines and plans. The pandemic has been stressful and isolating for many and the upcoming holidays may provide a much needed celebration during a challenging year. However, as we plan for the holidays, it may be helpful to consider how... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America’s Child Care Licensing Benchmark Project

By cooper.joslin on November 19, 2020

We know that high-quality early learning environments fuel the success of children and have positive social, economic and health impacts that last into adulthood.[1] States can strongly influence whether their child care systems are quality-driven or not, especially in the areas of health and safety. That’s because quality can be achieved, in part, through strong... Read more »

What the Election Means for Child Care Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on November 9, 2020

Elections matter for child care at all levels of government as public officials have the power to shape the child care system, especially as they respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. State and local officials elected last week will be involved in developing annual budget proposals, while federal policymakers will be considering the need for child care relief nationwide.... Read more »

Innovative Strategies for Partnering with Families to Boost Children’s Learning

By cooper.joslin on November 4, 2020

Without a doubt, families are an essential part of children’s learning and educational journey – starting at birth. “Engaging families as partners early in the educational journey allows parents to establish strong home-school connections that support their children’s achievement long-term “(Start Early, September 25, 2019). So, it is not surprising that “family engagement” is a... Read more »

Outdoor Air Quality and Child Care

By cooper.joslin on October 30, 2020

Why does outdoor air quality matter? Child care providers are always thinking about the health and safety of the children in their care. One critical issue to be aware of is the outdoor air quality in your area. Outdoor air quality issues can affect a child care program, including the ability to safely take children... Read more »

Why Health & Wellness is More Important than Ever in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on October 30, 2020

As Child Health Month comes to a close, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) continues to promote and support early childhood health and health outcomes for the child care community. Child obesity remains a large problem which threatens the future health of children as they grow to adulthood. Child care providers are also a high... Read more »

More Reason than Ever to Celebrate National Farm to School Month

By cooper.joslin on October 27, 2020

Written by Lacy Stephens, MS, RDN, National Farm to School Network and Emia Oppenheim, PhD, RD/LD, Association of State Public Health Nutritionists October is National Farm to School Month, a month to recognize, appreciate and celebrate the connections happening across the country between kids, families and their local food systems because of farm to school... Read more »

The COVID-19 math doesn’t work for Washington’s child care providers

By cooper.joslin on October 25, 2020

Spokane Spokesman-Review Op-ed by Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware of America, and Deeann Puffert, CEO of Child Care Aware of Washington. This is a critical time for our economy. It is also a critical time for the most important workforce support of all – child care. Parents cannot work, no matter... Read more »

Can I Safely Send My Kid to Day Care? We Asked the Experts

By cooper.joslin on October 22, 2020

New York Times In a report of U.S. child care facilities released on Sept. 24, Child Care Aware of America, a nonprofit advocacy group for providers, found that nationwide, 35 percent of nonresidential child care centers and 21 percent of in-home child care facilities that had been open before the pandemic had closed by July.... Read more »

Yale Study Finds No Correlation Between Child Care Centers and Coronavirus Transmission

By cooper.joslin on October 20, 2020

Cheddar First large-scale study finds child care is not associated with the spread of Covid-19. Cheddar’s Hena Doba is joined by Yale University Professor and lead on the study, Walter Gilliam, and Child Care Aware of America CEO Lynette Fraga. Watch the interview.

Lynette M. Fraga Discusses the New Study that Child Care Is Not Linked to COVID

By cooper.joslin on October 17, 2020

SiriusXM, Press Pool with Julie Mason Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware of America, discusses the Yale study and the heroic efforts of child care providers to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Listen to the interview.

New Resource on Environmental Health and Safety!

By cooper.joslin on October 16, 2020

  Health and safety in child care settings are critical at all times. The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified child care providers’ responsibilities in ensuring that the environment is safe and healthy. A new resource from CCAoA, Environmental Health and Safety in Child Care Settings: Considerations During Viral Outbreaks, highlights important environmental health and safety concerns... Read more »

Daycare Centers Are Very Low Risk for Covid-19 Transmission, Study Says

By cooper.joslin on October 14, 2020

Wall Street Journal Children in daycare programs present virtually no risk of transmitting Covid-19 to adults, according to a new Yale University study of more than 57,000 U.S. child-care providers.  The study, believed to be the largest of its kind, indicated that keeping child-care centers open doesn’t contribute to transmission of the disease caused by... Read more »

Child care programs not associated with COVID-19 spread, large study finds

By cooper.joslin on October 14, 2020

TODAY.com  A large-scale study conducted by Yale University found that child care is not associated with the spread of the coronavirus. The study, PUBLISH in Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, found that child care programs that stayed open throughout the pandemic did not contribute to the spread of the virus... Read more »

Updates Made to the HEROES Act

By cooper.joslin on October 13, 2020

Momentum in support of child care relief continues to grow in Congress. Last week, the House of Representatives passed an updated version of the HEROES Act, which includes $57 billion in emergency funding for child care – $50 billion for child care stabilization grants and $7 billion in emergency funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant Program (CCDBG).  

Talking to Families about Flu Prevention

By cooper.joslin on October 9, 2020

This season, getting an Influenza(flu) vaccine is essential in protecting the health of children, their families, and child care providers. Flu is a contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Although there are some  exceptions, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months or older should get a flu vaccine annually. Flu is most common during the fall and winter. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a flu vaccine... Read more »

The Rise of the Learning Pod: Considerations & Precautions

By cooper.joslin on October 8, 2020

This fall, as schools make difficult decisions about when and how to reopen during the pandemic, families also face tough choices. Parents across the country are struggling to balance holding down a job or pursuing their own education with attending to their children’s health, education, safety and social connections.

A Better Way to Care for Young Children and Older Adults

By cooper.joslin on October 6, 2020

  By Donna Butts and Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D.   The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential role of caregivers, those who care for us when we are young and old, and given us an opportunity to reimagine care from a lifespan perspective. This will be particularly important after the pandemic permanently closes an estimated 30-50% of... Read more »

What Child Care Providers Need to Know about Preventing the Flu

By cooper.joslin on October 5, 2020

Influenza (Flu) season is upon us and getting a flu vaccine, especially during 2020-2021, is more important than ever. Flu is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and infects the nose, throat and in some cases, the lungs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccines for anyone 6 months and older. Flu vaccines are the best way to prevent flu and it is especially important for child care providers who care for young... Read more »

Report: Fewer family childcare providers with pandemic taking toll

By cooper.joslin on October 5, 2020

Forum News Service (ND, SD, MN, WI) The number of childcare facilities continues to slump in the Upper Midwest, and it’s likely the COVID-19 pandemic will take a further toll, according to recently released annual tracking report and multiple surveys by organizations who monitor child care options. Particularly hard hit in Minnesota, North Dakota and... Read more »

A Closer Look At Our New Report: Picking Up the Pieces

By cooper.joslin on October 2, 2020

On September 24, we released our fall report Picking Up the Pieces: Building a Better Child Care System Post COVID-19. Alongside this report, we feature an interactive website that includes videos, infographics and a map where you can get data for each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. You can also access a... Read more »

Mothers in the workplace at a ‘tipping point’ amid the pandemic, child care crisis

By cooper.joslin on October 1, 2020

Good Morning America/ABCNews.com At the same time women face a gender pay gap where they earn around 80 cents for each dollar their male co-workers make, the costs of child care now exceed $20,000 per year in nearly two dozen states, according to Child Care Aware of America, a nonprofit organization that works to make... Read more »

Review of State Policies: Child Care and School Opening Plans

By cooper.joslin on October 1, 2020

Child care has always been a through line for communities, supporting children and families in a myriad of ways, but its essential role has been underscored throughout the pandemic. While schools and businesses shut down in the spring of 2020, child care remained open in some capacity in most states so essential personnel could continue to work to keep communities running. The child care sector now faces the uncertainty of an unprecedented school year and the... Read more »

Millions May Miss Out on Economic Impact Payments: How to Help

By cooper.joslin on September 30, 2020

If you filed a tax return in 2018 or 2019 or if you receive Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or certain Veterans benefits, you likely received an Economic Impact Payment (“EIP” also known as a “stimulus check”) automatically in the form of a direct deposit, paper check, or debit card.  

National report warns crumbling child care industry will slow economic recovery in Washington state and beyond

By cooper.joslin on September 26, 2020

Seattle Times Without child care, there can be no economic recovery from the pandemic. Those are the dire consequences that can transpire if the government doesn’t give more financial assistance to U.S. child care providers, including those in Washington state, a new report warns. Since July, nationwide, 40% of child care centers and 27% of... Read more »

Child-care centers struggle to reopen, while others may raise prices to survive

By cooper.joslin on September 25, 2020

MarketWatch The U.S. child-care system is buckling under the weight of the coronavirus pandemic, new data suggests — and economists warn that a lack of feasible options during the economic downturn could leave some working mothers’ careers in the lurch. After COVID-19 forced the closure of many child-care providers across the country, most states allowed for... Read more »

Without federal support, experts say child care is likely to get more expensive for parents

By cooper.joslin on September 25, 2020

CNBC.com Despite states allowing child-care providers to reopen their doors as the spring and summer stay-at-home orders lifted, attendance is still down and many centers have yet to get back into business.  About 35% of child-care centers and 21% of family child-care programs remain closed nationwide as of July, according to the latest data available... Read more »

Report Finds Drop In Iowa’s Licensed Child Care Centers During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on September 24, 2020

Iowa Public Radio A new report has found about half the state’s licensed child care centers have closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report by the non-profit Child Care Aware of America found the state’s licensed child care centers dropped from nearly 1,590 in January to just over 802 in July. However, the report found... Read more »

New Report Provides National and State-by-State Look at Child Care  During COVID-19 Pandemic

By cooper.joslin on September 24, 2020

Report finds that 35% of centers and 21% of family child care programs remain closed nationwide Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) today released a new report and interactive website on the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on child care access, affordability and quality.   The report, titled Picking Up the Pieces: Building a Better Child Care System Post... Read more »

Federal Assistance Has Helped, but More Is Needed

By cooper.joslin on September 14, 2020

  Financial Impact and Federal Relief  The COVID-19 impact on child care programs is pervasive and multi-faceted. Child care business owners have faced abrupt program closures or reduced operational capacity. Programs that stayed open, including those mandated to only serve essential workers, have had to front much higher than usual operational costs. These extra costs include cleaning and disinfection supplies, health screening resources, personal protective equipment, and environmental modifications to... Read more »

Remembrance and Gratitude on September 11

By cooper.joslin on September 11, 2020

It was a few days after my son’s second birthday. The day began, hurried as most and late as usual. I was doing my best to reach the office by 9 a.m.  I hadn’t quite mastered the art of juggling work and parenthood (Do we ever? Perhaps that’s a question for another blog post). But, I... Read more »

COVID-19 Has Nearly Destroyed the Childcare Industry—and It Might Be Too Late to Save It

By cooper.joslin on September 9, 2020

TIME If there are mass closures across the childcare industry to the extent that experts predict, the failure of the government to act will have broader ramifications. Daycare providers who find themselves unemployed may never return to their profession. Daycare owners may abandon their businesses for more lucrative ones. Families may opt to keep a... Read more »

National Preparedness Month

By cooper.joslin on September 4, 2020

It’s September! And as you may know, each September is recognized as National Preparedness Month. Preparedness Month promotes family and community disaster planning now, during the month, and throughout the year. 

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention

By cooper.joslin on September 2, 2020

Carbon Monoxide  Emergency events or disasters can happen anywhere at any time.  And with some types of events, power may be lost or turned off for a period of time. Luckily, generators are a good source of power for your home or business and can be used relatively easily. However, it is important to use a generator safely to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

What the House’s FY2021 Funding Includes for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 1, 2020

While Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) focuses our advocacy efforts on the immediate need for emergency stabilization funds for the child care industry to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual funding, or appropriations, process continues.   Last month, the House of Representatives passed the FY2021 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education spending bill that includes funding increases for federal early learning and care programs. This funding would kick in... Read more »

Your On-the-Go Consumer Education Brochure Suite for Parents

By cooper.joslin on August 26, 2020

The process of searching for child care is undeniably one of the most difficult processes for families with young children to navigate. We are excited to share with you a newly refreshed suite of on-the-go child care information brochures that help you talk with Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies and providers when choosing... Read more »

Pandemic underscores the importance, inequities of child-care system

By cooper.joslin on August 23, 2020

Seattle Times Op-ed by Jackie Bezos, president and co-founder of the Bezos Family Foundation, and Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware of America. Read the op-ed.

Parents & Employers Pay the Price: COVID-19 Erodes Child Care Systems

By cooper.joslin on August 18, 2020

The COVID-19 public health crisis is heightening awareness of child care as a core foundational need for both working parents and employers. Under typical circumstances, parents need accessible, safe and affordable child care so they can work. Employers also need quality child care options for their employees for their business to work. This year (2020)... Read more »

Hand Sanitizer Alert: Toxic Ingredient Found in Some Brands

By cooper.joslin on August 16, 2020

  Editor’s Note: This post was originally PUBLISH on July 15, 2020 but has since been updated with information from a new alert from the FDA about sanitizers that include isopropyl alcohol as an ingredient.    Child care providers implement hand hygiene procedures to keep children in care, their families and themselves healthy and well. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased hand hygiene vigilance in child... Read more »

Grieving Children in a Pandemic: How Can Child Care Providers Help?

By cooper.joslin on August 14, 2020

These are anxious times for our nation. Children, parents and child care providers are all carrying an extra burden as they deal with the demands and uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an especially difficult time for a child to experience the death of a family member or friend. Even in the best of... Read more »

Clean & Safe Child Care: How to Access and Pay For COVID-19 Supplies

By cooper.joslin on August 13, 2020

A few months after the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) surveyed Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies. In response to the survey, 163 CCR&R professionals from 41 states relayed the most pressing concerns they are hearing from child care providers. Locating and purchasing disinfecting supplies and personal... Read more »

COVID-19 Quick Response Grant Winners

By cooper.joslin on July 29, 2020

  Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to award 11 Child Care Resource & Referral member agencies COVID-19 Quick Response Grants.  The grants were made possible through generous financial support from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP).  Funds received from CDP will allow CCAoA to rapidly support CCR&Rs by offering subgrants for the purchase of supplies or enhanced services supports for childcare providers in... Read more »

Whether to Close or Stay Open: One of the Hardest Decisions in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on July 29, 2020

Early in the COVID-19 crisis, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) developed a decision flow diagram to aid decision making surrounding temporarily closing child care programs due to health and safety concerns. CCAoA’s flow diagram was adapted from a school-age program decision aid developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Now we are several months into COVID-19 and child care programs that have been able to remain open face continued uncertainty. A critical... Read more »

When and How to Reopen Child Care Programs

By cooper.joslin on July 27, 2020

Like no other time in the history of child care, coronavirus (COVID-19) is challenging child care professionals to make difficult decisions about closing their programs temporarily and then determining when and how to reopen. These decisions are critical to protecting the health and safety of all enrolled children and their families as well as program staff and their household members. Aside from state/local mandates for... Read more »

New Proposals in Congress Support Stabilizing Child Care

By cooper.joslin on July 24, 2020

As the COVID-19 health and economic crisis continues, the child care industry is pushed further towards the brink of collapse. Throughout the pandemic, the sector has adhered to public health guidance and ensured frontline personnel have access to care, however as the field moves towards additional reopening, and planning for the fall, additional support is needed to ensure child... Read more »

Considerations for Child Care During COVID-19 Response & Recovery

By cooper.joslin on July 23, 2020

  The COVID-19 situation and its impact are fluid, changing from day to day. There are many uncertainties regarding child care and child care operations, and child care professionals at both the program and system level must be nimble in their response to the pandemic. They must lean on and build upon the strengths that... Read more »

4 Steps You Can Take Today to Advocate for Child Care Funding

By cooper.joslin on July 20, 2020

  As parents and caregivers navigate a return to the workforce and the start of a new school year, child care is a critical support to reopening the economy and providing stability to families. It has become abundantly clear that no industry will be able to restart if the child care sector is allowed to collapse. We need to ensure that all child care providers can open as soon... Read more »

How Intermediaries Can Partner to Strengthen the Child Care Sector

By cooper.joslin on July 17, 2020

At the Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF), we know that high-quality early care and education (ECE) programs are vital to promoting equity, opportunity and well-being in communities nationwide. Central to our vision is the expansion of quality ECE facilities that are developmentally appropriate, safe and healthy places for children to learn and teachers to teach.... Read more »

Coronavirus calculation: No child care, no economic recovery

By cooper.joslin on July 14, 2020

FOX Business The coronavirus pandemic has hit every part of our economy. But while we hear so often about prominent businesses or industries affected by this, what does not get talked about is how it has devastated an industry that has served as a glue keeping the other parts of our economy together — child... Read more »

Advocating for Child Care During and After a Pandemic

By cooper.joslin on July 10, 2020

Exchange magazine The coronavirus pandemic shows just how essential child care is. Since March, many working parents across the country have scrambled to find alternative child care arrangements as schools and some child care providers closed because of the coronavirus outbreak. Those parents who were able to “work from home” struggled to balance work and... Read more »

Reviewing State Policies: Child Care Ratios and Class Sizes

By cooper.joslin on July 2, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic continues to highlight the vital role child care plays for millions of children and families, especially for those who work on the front lines of the crisis. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is also underscoring the precariousness of high-quality, affordable and accessible child care – the result of years of underinvestment in the system.   State policies play an important... Read more »

In-Home Child Care Could Be the Solution to Covid-19 Parent Woes

By cooper.joslin on July 1, 2020

Fatherly.com “Covid-19 really has devastated the childcare system,” says Mindy Bennett, Deputy Chief of Partnership of the national child care advocacy organization Child Care Aware of America. “I’ve had community leaders tell me that they suspect that about 50 percent of their childcare have closed and will not reopen,” Bennett says. Home-based child care, also... Read more »

The Critical Work of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on July 1, 2020

  Our child care system could not function without Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies. For more than 30 years they have helped families find quality child care and information on where to get help paying for care. They have also offered trainings and supports to providers to open and operate their businesses and to continually improve the quality of their care. In addition,... Read more »

Without Child Care, There is No Economic Recovery

By cooper.joslin on June 26, 2020

Morning Consult In this op-ed, Mark Shriver, President of Save the Children Action Network, and Lynette Fraga, CEO of Child Care Aware of America, write: Can America reopen without child care? The answer is no. A survey jointly commissioned by Save the Children Action Network and Child Care Aware of America found that nearly 9 in... Read more »

Reviewing State Policies: Support For Families During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on June 25, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to highlight the vital role child care plays for millions of children and families, especially for those who work on the front lines of the crisis. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is also underscoring the precariousness of high-quality, affordable and accessible child care – the result of years of underinvestment in the system.  

Parents Going Back to Work After Pandemic Peak Struggle to Find Child Care

By cooper.joslin on June 25, 2020

WDET (NPR/Detroit) The coronavirus pandemic has put a strain on the nation’s child care system. Many providers had to close due to stay-at-home orders that kept families away.  Now, as those restrictions are being lifted, parents going back to work are having trouble finding child care. Dr. Lynette Fraga is the CEO of Child Care Aware... Read more »

Reviewing State Policies: Protecting Health and Safety

By cooper.joslin on June 22, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to highlight the vital role child care plays for millions of children and families, especially for those who work on the front lines of the crisis. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is also underscoring the precariousness of high-quality, affordable, and accessible child care – the result of years of underinvestment in the system.   

Reviewing State Policies: Supporting Financial Stability for Providers

By cooper.joslin on June 18, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to highlight the vital role child care plays for millions of children and families, especially for those who work on the front lines of the crisis. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is also underscoring the precariousness of high-quality, affordable, and accessible child care – the result of years of underinvestment in the system. State... Read more »

Conducting Child Care Program Visits During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on June 12, 2020

CCR&R staff play a key role in supporting caregivers in child care programs during the response and recovery phases. In-person visits have traditionally been an essential aspect of providing support services to child care providers, yet during the COVID-19 recovery phase these visits have likely been suspended in an effort to ensure the protection of... Read more »

South Jersey summer camps’ opening plans vary in light of COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on June 12, 2020

Press of Atlantic City Lynette Fraga, CEO of Child Care Aware of America, said reopening child care centers and summer camps will be critical to restarting the economy in New Jersey and throughout the nation. Her organization has a list of questions parents should ask their camps and child care providers as they reopen to... Read more »

How To Prepare Your Toddler For The New Normal At Day Care, According To Experts

By cooper.joslin on June 10, 2020

Romper National child care advocacy groups like Child Care Aware of America continue to monitor the evolving processes and procedures, updating parents and caregivers with resources like new fact sheets every step of the way. While it is of the utmost importance to prepare your child for a return to their new normal at day... Read more »

5 questions to ask before sending kids to camp or child care amid coronavirus pandemic

By cooper.joslin on June 9, 2020

KXAN (NBC/Austin) Child care programs and summer camps are starting to open after shutting down because of the COVID-19 crisis. Dr. Lynette Fraga of Child Care Aware of America helped create a list of questions parents should ask summer programs and child care centers to stay safe. In order to try to avoid any cases... Read more »

3 Major Changes to the Paycheck Protection Program

By cooper.joslin on June 8, 2020

On June 4, 2020, three major changes were made to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness program to make it more flexible and less burdensome for borrowers to receive full loan forgiveness. These changes apply to new borrowers and those who already received their loan, and should make it easier for PPP loan recipients... Read more »

No Child Care Means No Recovery

By cooper.joslin on June 5, 2020

  In the wake of the coronavirus, child care is facing serious challenges. While the field has come together to ensure public health guidance is followed, that care is available for frontline personnel, and that additional reopening of the sector is approached appropriately, more is needed to ensure that child care programs, both center-based and... Read more »

Getting Kids Back to School and Child Care

By cooper.joslin on June 4, 2020

Mark Reardon Show, KMOX NewsRadio (St. Louis) Lynette Fraga, CEO of Child Care Aware of America, discusses getting kids back to school and child care during the pandemic. Listen to the interview.

Future of child care facilities in question as pandemic rolls on

By cooper.joslin on June 2, 2020

Scripps National News Child care facilities are struggling with how they will continue operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Providing care right now is expensive. We necessarily need sanitizing equipment, supportive PPE equipment. We need to ensure that ratios are high and group size is low, and that the physical space and the distances that are... Read more »

Child Care Crisis in the Pandemic

By cooper.joslin on May 29, 2020

Cheddar Cheddar’s Hena Doba is joined by Ami Gadhia, chief of policy, research, and programs for Child Care Aware of America, to discuss how states can’t reopen with child care centers still closed. Watch the video

Lack of child care poses major hurdle as businesses reopen

By cooper.joslin on May 29, 2020

The Hill Child care remains a central obstacle to reopening the economy as the school year ends and camps and summer programs remain on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. “Without child care, there’s no recovery,” said Lynette Fraga, executive director of non-profit Child Care Aware of America. “As states are starting to reopen and... Read more »

Many child care facilities remain closed. Who will watch kids as parents return to work?

By cooper.joslin on May 28, 2020

PBS NewsHour Who will care for the children of working parents when they return to their jobs, if schools and many child care providers remain closed? The CARES Act allocated $3.5 billion to support child care programs, but a national organization says many providers have yet to receive any funding. Special correspondent Cat Wise reports... Read more »

Tips for Helping Families Support Children’s Emotions during COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on May 22, 2020

  Springtime for Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies typically brings a multitude of outreach events with many opportunities to engage families and child care professionals. The pandemic has changed how CCR&R agencies provide services and outreach. CCR&Rs have quickly responded to the ever-changing health crisis and the uncertainty within the child care field,... Read more »

States Can’t Fully Reopen With Child Care Centers Still Closed

By cooper.joslin on May 22, 2020

Bloomberg News As states around the country attempt to restart their economies, lack of child care will continue to keep some people—mostly women—from getting back to work. “The pandemic has focused the nation’s attention on the fact that access to child care is a really critical part of our economic health,” said Ami Gadhia, the... Read more »

Top 5 Questions for Parents to Ask About Child Care Health and Safety During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on May 20, 2020

As states begin to reopen and parents start heading back to work, many are wondering if it’s safe to send their child to a child care program. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidelines for reopening child care, schools, and businesses, but child care providers need personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning... Read more »

Cleaning and Disinfecting in Child Care Programs

By cooper.joslin on May 20, 2020

Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies and providers have contacted Child Care Aware® of America with questions about how to ensure their programs are properly cleaned and ready when child care programs reopen.  First, it’s important to understand the difference between cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting. In short, cleaning means removing dirt or germs from a surface; sanitizing refers to reducing the number of pathogens or bacteria... Read more »

New Child Care Program Coaching Resource for CCR&Rs

By cooper.joslin on May 18, 2020

By Marie Treichel, Provider Services Manager Child Care Aware® of Eastern Kansas has been providing referral services to families for over forty years, and in 1992 began providing direct coaching services to early educators.

Affordable child care is increasingly difficult to find in the U.S.—coronavirus could make it harder

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2020

CNBC.com Day cares, preschools and child-care providers nationwide are facing a tough road as they attempt to provide safe, quality care to children while navigating the ever-changing challenges posed to their businesses. And experts say that many providers may not make it. “We’re going to lose a lot of child care at a time when... Read more »

Is It Safe to Bring My Child to Child Care during COVID-19?

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2020

Among the highest priorities for families with young children is the desire to keep their children safe from harm, healthy, happy and well. While many families are keeping their children at home right now, states are slowly starting to re-open. But is it safe for a child to be in a group early childhood setting? 

CCAoA Partners with CARE USA to Support Child Care Providers

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to announce a partnership with the international humanitarian organization CARE® USA to bring CARE Packages® to child care providers who are caring for the children of those on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. At this time, the effort is focused on 10 states that are especially... Read more »

The HEROES Act and What It Means for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on May 14, 2020

Yesterday, the House of Representatives unveiled their version of the latest round of stimulus relief: The HEROES Act.  While we are happy to see some movement on relief for the American people coming out of Washington, this bill falls woefully short of where we need to be to ensure the survival of our child care... Read more »

‘The payment came too late’: Maryland child care centers ponder long-term consequences of coronavirus pandemic

By cooper.joslin on May 13, 2020

Baltimore Sun According to Child Care Aware of America, a nonprofit designed to assist families with child care, 24 states reported a decrease in child care programs from 2017 to 2018. In a letter addressed to members of the U.S. Congress, Child Care Aware of America urged increased investment in child care programs across the... Read more »

The Forgotten Essential Workers: Women of Color in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on May 12, 2020

Real Clear Policy By Lynette M. Fraga & Renee Boynton-Jarrett As politicians and pundits rightfully praise essential workers during this pandemic, rarely does anyone mention another group of genuine heroes: those who care for the children of other essential workers. Could it be that because these workers are disproportionately women of color, their service is... Read more »

Kids can’t be an ‘afterthought’: Some states are reopening without lifting child care restrictions

By cooper.joslin on May 8, 2020

CNBC Online The delay in reopening child-care centers in some states may not be due to a lack of planning, but rather, an abundance of coordination and caution. “This isn’t a light switch that we’re going to be turning back on again — there’s a real runway needed and some real thought that needs to be... Read more »

Need for child care presents hurdle to restarting economy

By cooper.joslin on May 7, 2020

MSNBC, Andrea Mitchell Reports Andrea Mitchell is joined by Mark Shriver, President of Save the Children Action Network, and Lynette Fraga, Executive Director of Child Care Aware of America, to talk about how the availability of child care services is essential for parents with children to be able to return to work as many schools... Read more »

Top 5 Things the CDC Must Address in Its Child Care Reopening Plan

By cooper.joslin on May 7, 2020

Today, Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., Executive Director of Child Care Aware of America, released the following statement in response to the draft Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on reopening child care:

How to Advocate for Child Care from Home (in 5 Steps!)

By cooper.joslin on May 7, 2020

An in-person meeting. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have in our toolbox as advocates. But what do we do when we can no longer sit down, face-to-face, and have a conversation with our representatives?  Advocacy has never been more important, so we can’t just put one of our best tools away. We have to adapt to the... Read more »

Severe Weather Preparations for Child Care During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on May 6, 2020

2020 Tornado Season  COVID-19 has dominated the news in recent months. As a result, many people may not have heard that this spring’s severe weather season has already made 2020 the deadliest tornado year since 2012. Although it’s early in the season, the National Weather Service has confirmed 443 tornadoes across the country and many... Read more »

Economy can’t reopen unless child care questions are answered, says head of nonprofit

By cooper.joslin on May 5, 2020

FoxNews.com Although some states are allowing the reopening of businesses after the coronavirus shutdown, day care facilities and schools continue to be closed, an obstacle for parents who need child care so they can return to work. “As federal and state governments are deliberating about reopening, we need to address the needs of parents and... Read more »

Safe Practices: Being Mindful of Cleaning Chemicals During COVID-19

By cooper.joslin on May 5, 2020

In this new world of COVID-19, everyone is trying to kill germs and avoid sickness. However, our fears should not distract us from the mindful use of cleaning chemicals, including hand sanitizer. Even chemicals that are meant to keep us healthy can cause poisoning or even death when used improperly, especially around children. 

What are parents supposed to do with their children as businesses reopen but schools remain closed?

By cooper.joslin on May 5, 2020

FOX News Channel Child Care Aware of America executive director Lynette Fraga discussed concerns over child care as states reopen on America’s Newsroom. Watch the video

Dr. Lynette M. Fraga on the Economy & How It Can’t Re-Open Until Childcare Re-Opens

By cooper.joslin on May 5, 2020

SiriusXM, Press Pool with Julie Mason Listen to the interview

The pandemic is slated to shutter 30% of US child care centers — and it could prove catastrophic for the careers of American women

By cooper.joslin on May 4, 2020

Business Insider Many [child care centers] will stay shuttered for good. Her estimate? “It’s going to be at least 30% of all child care centers in the US,” she said. Ami Gadhia, chief of policy, research, and programs at Child Care Aware, agreed with that statistic, saying it sounded “reasonable” to her, unfortunately. In the... Read more »

When Can Child Care Resume?

By cooper.joslin on May 4, 2020

New York Times Since the pandemic began, 16 states have mandated closures of child care facilities to all children except those of essential workers. A seventeenth, Rhode Island, closed child care facilities to everyone. Even in states without regulations, many day cares have chosen to close in response to the pandemic, according to Child Care... Read more »

How Can CCR&R Agencies Help Child Care Programs Reopen?

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) understands that this is an uncertain time for child care providers, as they make difficult decisions about what’s best for their business and the families and community they serve. This is also an uncertain time for families as they make decisions about child care. The safety and well–being of staff, family members and children is of utmost importance.   

Survey: Majority Support for Dedicated Child Care Funding

By cooper.joslin on April 28, 2020

This week, Child Care Aware® of America and the Save the Children Action Network released the results of a nationwide survey that confirms for us what we’ve known since this crisis began:

Agarrar, adaptar e ir – Recursos de COVID-19 para los programas de cuidado infantil

By cooper.joslin on April 24, 2020

La propagación del Coronavirus (COVID-19) ha tenido un impacto inmediato en un pilar crítico de los Estados Unidos – los programas de cuidado infantil. Muchos programas están lidiando con preguntas sobre si deberían mantener sus puertas abiertas a las familias y, si lo hacen, qué deberían considerar para asegurar la salud y seguridad de los... Read more »

National Tell a Story Day is April 27!

By cooper.joslin on April 23, 2020

National Tell a Story Day is Monday, April 27th. Help Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) encourage families to share the joy and value of telling stories to their children. People have been sharing stories to communicate information and connect with others for thousands of years through visual drawings, word of mouth and written words. 

National Provider Appreciation Day®: How to Celebrate Providers in Unprecedented Times

By cooper.joslin on April 23, 2020

Together, let’s celebrate child care providers on National Provider Appreciation Day® — Friday, May 8, 2020. Whether you are part of a Child Care Resource and Referral agency (CCR&R), a business, a non-profit organization or a family who has relied on a child care provider, you recognize the important role providers have in caring for... Read more »

Survey: Vast Majority of Voters Support Financial Assistance for America’s Child Care Industry to Address COVID-19 Impact

By cooper.joslin on April 22, 2020

National poll from Save the Children Action Network and Child Care Aware® of America shows 87 percent of Americans support federal funding to help child care centers pay staff and rent Today, Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) and Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced the results of a national survey that identified registered... Read more »

Finding the Right Day Care Can Be a Journey

By cooper.joslin on April 17, 2020

New York Times This guide was originally PUBLISH on July 29, 2019 and rePUBLISH on April 17, 2020. Finding child care is a huge challenge for most working parents in the United States. The cost of child care, whether in day-care centers or home-based day cares, continues to rise: For a family with two working parents, the... Read more »

Discussing the Consequences of COVID-19 for Child Care Centers

By cooper.joslin on April 16, 2020

WEKU (NPR/Central & Eastern Kentucky) COVID-19 shutters child care centers. Lynette Fraga of Child Care Aware of America discusses the consequences. Listen to the interview

Child Care is Essential: All States Should Follow Vermont’s Lead to Support Child Care

By cooper.joslin on April 16, 2020

By Aly Richards, CEO of Let’s Grow Kids and Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., Executive Director of Child Care Aware® of America Any discussion of essential workers during the coronavirus pandemic should include the child care providers who are caring for the children of first responders, health care workers and other essential service workers. These providers are putting their own and their families’ health at risk and helping us... Read more »

CCAoA Statement on Senators Warren and Smith’s $50 Billion Child Care Plan

By cooper.joslin on April 15, 2020

Today, Senators Warren and Smith announced a $50 billion-dollar plan to save child care in America. Dr. Lynette Fraga, Ph.D., Executive Director of Child Care Aware of America–the leading voice for child care– released the following statement: “Child care is essential and the system needs support. We are grateful to Senators Warren and Smith for... Read more »

Press Release Title That’s Clever

By cooper.joslin on April 13, 2020

 Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) released Family Voices Driving Quality Child Care Choices, a report on findings and recommendations from a survey of families on the contemporary child care needs of diverse, vulnerable, underserved families and clarifies where they turn, both in-person and online, to meet their child care information needs.

Innovation During Coronavirus: A Pop-up Early Learning Program

By cooper.joslin on April 10, 2020

When states ordered that K-12 schools close and colleges shuttered their campuses – steps taken to slow the spread of COVID-19 — technology stepped up. Students in communities across the country are continuing their learning virtually, in the relative safety and comfort of their homes.    But what about our youngest learners? It’s just as important that... Read more »

Report Shows Gaps in Child Care for Kids of Healthcare Workers

By cooper.joslin on April 9, 2020

WDET (NPR/Detroit) While health care workers are on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19, who’s taking care of their children? A Yale University study shows almost 3.5 million children of people who work in the American health care industry need some kind of child care while their parents are at work. The report also shows... Read more »

First Book’s Resources for Families and Child Care Providers

By cooper.joslin on April 7, 2020

You do so much to support the kids in your care. It’s not the kind of care you can put a price on in normal times, let alone during a public health crisis like the coronavirus pandemic. This is when all the handwashing lessons, the cover-your-mouth-when-you-cough lessons and the be-nice-to-your-neighbors lessons really matter. The support... Read more »

Voices for Healthy Kids Calls for Campaign Proposals

By cooper.joslin on April 6, 2020

Every child deserves the chance to eat healthy food and play every day. Because 60 % children under age 6 spend much of their time in care outside of their homes, early care and education (ECE) settings are important places for children to build healthy habits.

What to Do if Your Day Care Is Still Open

By cooper.joslin on April 3, 2020

New York Times Despite widespread closures of just about everything because of the Covid-19 pandemic, many day care facilities remain open around the United States — either for all children or just for children of essential workers. Regulations for child care facilities vary by state, said Dr. Lynette Fraga, Ph.D., executive director of Child Care... Read more »

The child care crisis for essential employees

By cooper.joslin on April 2, 2020

WUSA-9 (CBS/Washington, DC) Dr. Lynette Fraga with Child Care Aware of America shares some statistics and support for child care for essential employees. Watch the video

At-Home Brain-Building Tips for Families with Children Ages Birth to Five

By cooper.joslin on April 2, 2020

COVID-19 has changed the day-to-day lives of many families with babies and young children. Some parents are seeking ideas for additional ways to interact with their children because they are now working from home or spending more time at home because of social distancing. On the other hand, some parents may have less time with... Read more »

April News & Resources on the 2020 Census

By cooper.joslin on April 1, 2020

  April 1 is National Census Day, and by now every home should have received an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census. So far, more than 30% of households across the country have responded, but there is still a long way to go to ensure a full and accurate count.   Unfortunately, with activities across the nation paused to respond to COVID-19, many experts are concerned that Census participation could be negatively affected. Now more than ever, the Census needs your... Read more »

Grab, Adapt and Go – COVID-19 Resources for Child Care Programs

By cooper.joslin on March 29, 2020

The spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) is having an immediate impact on a critical backbone of the United States—child care programs. Many programs are grappling with questions surrounding whether they should keep their doors open to families and, if they do, what they should be considering to ensure the health and safety of children and families. Some programs may face a state mandate to temporarily close their... Read more »

States scramble to arrange child care for essential workers

By cooper.joslin on March 29, 2020

Associated Press With schools and many day care centers closed, states, local governments and philanthropists are scrambling to free up parents who are medical workers, emergency responders and others needed on the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus outbreak. “We have historically not had the infrastructure and supply of child care available to... Read more »

CCAoA Calls Federal Stimulus Support for Child Care a “Down Payment”

By cooper.joslin on March 27, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America Calls Federal Stimulus Support for Child Care a “Down Payment” and Urges More Funding to Serve Essential Workers    WASHINGTON, March 27, 2020 — Child Care Aware® of America released the following statement in response to the latest federal stimulus package:   “Congress has begun to acknowledge the essential role that child care plays during this public health emergency. This down payment of $3.5 billion, if... Read more »

CCAoA Calls Federal Stimulus Support for Child Care a “Down Payment”

By cooper.joslin on March 27, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America Calls Federal Stimulus Support for Child Care a “Down Payment” and Urges More Funding to Serve Essential Workers    WASHINGTON, March 27, 2020 — Child Care Aware® of America released the following statement in response to the latest federal stimulus package:   “Congress has begun to acknowledge the essential role that child care plays during this public health emergency. This down payment of $3.5 billion,... Read more »

CCAoA Partnering with Yale Professors to Promote Interactive Map on Child Care Needs for Essential Workers

By cooper.joslin on March 25, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) has partnered with Yale University Professors Walter Gilliam and Eli Fenichel and their colleagues to promote and disseminate a new interactive map that estimates the child care needs of essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The map shows that health care workers in the U.S. have over 3.5 million... Read more »

Emergency Funding Resources that Child Care Providers Can Use Now

By cooper.joslin on March 23, 2020

Child care providers across the nations are closing as measures are set in place to reduce the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). If your child care business has closed or seen a drop in children attending and you’re experience financial distress, these resources can help. Please check back often as resources will continue to... Read more »

Coronavirus FAQs for Child Care Providers & Families

By cooper.joslin on March 22, 2020

Through our National Hotline, live chat, social media and recent webinar on Coronavirus Resources and Advice from the Field, Child Care Aware® of America has received and compiled hundreds of questions from child care providers and families during the Covid-19 pandemic. Below are a list of the most frequently asked questions from providers and parents... Read more »

When Should I Close My Child Care Program? A COVID-19 Flowchart

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) understands that this is an uncertain time for child care providers, as they make difficult decisions around what’s best for the business, community and families they serve. The safety and well being of staff, family members and children is of utmost importance.   Note: This post and infographic were originally PUBLISH... Read more »

Congress’ COVID-19 Response: What You Need to Know

By cooper.joslin on March 19, 2020

Updated March 27, 12:50 p.m. With all the news and updates around the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it can be difficult to grasp the proposals put forward by Congress. Below you will find a summary of each proposal passed or under consideration so far:  

Recommendations to Policymakers in Response to Coronavirus

By cooper.joslin on March 16, 2020

Early childhood education programs are essential for the millions of children and families they serve and play an important role during emergency public health and economic emergencies. As schools close, families need back–up child care. As communities work to ensure no child goes hungry and essential personnel are able to handle emergencies, child care providers need resources and guidance to help assist families.... Read more »

Coronavirus: What Child Care Providers Need to Know

By cooper.joslin on March 14, 2020

This time of year, illness seems to be everywhere. For those of us who work with children every day, the sounds of coughing, sneezing and nose-blowing are an unpleasant soundtrack playing on repeat from November to May. And this year, Coronavirus, concerning new respiratory illness from China is getting a lot of attention and has... Read more »

Research Round Up: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) 

By cooper.joslin on March 12, 2020

Long-term Head Start Impact on developmental outcomes for children in foster care   Lee, K.  Child Abuse Neglect (March 2020).   Background: In 2016, about 437,000 children were in the foster system in the United States. Children in the foster care system are at higher risk for experiencing poverty, abuse, chronic diseases and developmental impairments. Children in foster care... Read more »

March 12: Coronavirus Updates & Resources for Child Care Providers and CCR&Rs

By cooper.joslin on March 12, 2020

On Tuesday, March 17, at 2:00 p.m. EDT, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is hosting a free webinar for child care providers and Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies to share the latest coronavirus and emergency preparedness resources from CCAoA, along with updates and advice from our staff. In addition, the moderators will facilitate a discussion of what’s being done... Read more »

March News & Resources about the 2020 Census

By cooper.joslin on March 11, 2020

It’s official: beginning March 12, households nationwide will begin receiving invitations to participate in the 2020 Decennial Census. With the count now underway in all 50 states, find out what you can do to help ensure children age 4 and under are properly counted in this month’s edition of our Census Series:  

Health Resource Spotlight: Administering Medication

By cooper.joslin on March 10, 2020

The Problem Providers are sometimes required to give medication to young children. If medication is not safely administered, there can be health consequences for the child and liability risk for those who own, manage or are employed at a program.

Research Round Up: Physical Activity

By cooper.joslin on March 9, 2020

Implementation Strategies Used by States to Support Physical Activity Licensing Standards for Toddlers in Early Care and Education Settings: An Exploratory Qualitative Study   Lessard, L., Speirs, K., and Slesinger, N. Childhood Obesity (September 2018).  Background: Childhood obesity is a major health concern that affects even very young children, like those served in early care and education (ECE) settings.... Read more »

CCAoA Joins National Interoperability Collaborative

By cooper.joslin on March 9, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is pleased to announce that it has become a member of the National Interoperability Collaborative (NIC), a unique “community of networks” that sees a nation where everyone — especially vulnerable and underserved populations —  enjoys a better life. NIC’s mission is to improve systems and increase collaboration among the sectors that enhance health, safety and well-being by... Read more »

Care About Child Care? 5 Reasons You Want to Be at the 2020 Symposium

By cooper.joslin on March 6, 2020

It happens every other year. Child Care Aware® of America hosts a Symposium that brings together individuals from across the country to discuss the latest research, policy and practices related to the early child care and education community.  This year’s 4-day event offers participants opportunities to hear from and connect with thought leaders, Congressional staff and other early education professionals.

Coronavirus Updates and Resources for Child Care Providers and CCR&Rs

By cooper.joslin on March 5, 2020

The Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) Emergency Preparedness team is committed to ensuring the child care sector has the support it needs in times of uncertainty. Emergency preparedness, response and recovery is vital for the well-being of children, families and communities.    We understand that you may feel confused or unsure about how the Coronavirus (COVID-19) could potentially affect your program, staff,... Read more »

Integrating Self-Reflection into Professional Development

By cooper.joslin on March 4, 2020

Being a reflective practitioner means continuously asking yourself questions about your practice, evaluating your decisions and creating plans to apply new knowledge. Self-reflection is not a difficult skill to learn, but it can be challenging to integrate reflection into your daily practice. Sometimes it is easier to stay where we are, rather than make changes... Read more »

Coronavirus: How Does It Impact Child Care Providers and CCR&Rs?

By cooper.joslin on February 28, 2020

It’s impossible to avoid news about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) these days, and as child care leaders and providers, you are no doubt getting questions from parents about it. You are also probably wondering, how do I, as a child care provider, prevent Coronavirus from impacting the children in my care? What would I do if Coronavirus showed up in my community or child... Read more »

CCR&R:Helping Families, Improving Quality and Building Supply of Child Care

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2020

  The first post in this series introduced Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (CCR&Rs) as valuable partners and guides for businesses ready to take action on child care. Let’s dig a little deeper into the current context of child care in America – and then explore the basics of CCR&Rs.

February News & Resources about the 2020 Census

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2020

Even though the 2020 Census already began in some parts of the country, we are one month away from  households nationwide receiving official Census Bureau invitations to participate. To help ensure that children age four and under are properly counted, we’ve compiled news updates from the month of February and the latest resources that will help you prepare: 

Research Round Up: Workforce

By cooper.joslin on February 12, 2020

The health status of the early care and education workforce in the USA: A scoping review of evidence and current practice   Lessard, L.M., Wilkins, K., Rose-Malm, J., and Mazzocchi, M.C. Public Health Reviews (January 2020).   Background: Ten million young children in the U.S. are enrolled in an early care and education (ECE) program such as child care, Head Start or... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Child Development

By cooper.joslin on February 11, 2020

The Problem Providers play a critical role in helping identify children with developmental concerns – if they have the right knowledge and training.

FY21 White House Budget Proposal

By cooper.joslin on February 11, 2020

In response to the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) Executive Director Dr. Lynette M. Fraga released the following statement:  “The President’s FY 2021 Budget falls well short of meeting families’ needs. The proposal lacks the robust, long-term investment the child care system needs to ensure our children... Read more »

Your On-the-Go Consumer Education Brochure Suite

By cooper.joslin on February 11, 2020

The process of searching for child care is undeniably one of the most difficult processes for families with young children to navigate. Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies play a critical role in partnering with families to ensure they have information to make the right child care choice for their family. We are excited... Read more »

A New PD Program that Improves Quality in Infant & Toddler Classrooms

By cooper.joslin on February 10, 2020

In 2017, the Early Learning Coalition of Orange County (ELOC), the not-for-profit agency tasked by the state of Florida to ensure young children’s school readiness, which serves families and early childhood programs in the greater Orlando community, launched a new professional development (PD) program called LENA Grow as a way to increase quality in infant... Read more »

Research Round Up: Nutrition-Added Sugars Intake among US Infants and Toddlers

By cooper.joslin on February 10, 2020

  Added Sugars Intake among US Infants and Toddlers  Herrick, K.A., Fryar, C.D., Hamner, H.C., Park, S., and Ogden, C.L. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (January 2020).  Background: Eating and drinking foods with added sugars has been associated with several health conditions including asthma, obesity, dental cavities and high blood pressure in children. The current national guidelines for nutrition... Read more »

Changes to the Scope of Public Charge Rules

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2020

Update Feb. 6 – On Jan. 30, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the new public charge rule will be effective as of Feb. 24, 2020, everywhere in the U.S. except Illinois, where a statewide preliminary injunction remains in place. This means that any green card applications that are postmarked or submitted electronically... Read more »

How Reading Storybooks Helps Children Cope after a Disaster

By cooper.joslin on February 6, 2020

Imagine being four-years-old and losing your favorite stuffed animal and familiar routines because your home was destroyed by a flood. You watch your parents cry and keep asking, “When can we go home? I want my stuffed tiger.” You do not exactly understand what is happening, but you are sad and scared.

The House Holds Hearing on Child Care Crisis

By cooper.joslin on February 5, 2020

On Thursday, February 6, the Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education Subcommittee of the House Committee on Education and Labor will hold a hearing on “Solving America’s Child Care Crisis: Supporting Parents, Children, and the Economy.” Members of the Subcommittee will hear from four expert witnesses on the child care crisis, including a parent and a child care provider. 

The Business Case for Child Care – Taking Action

By cooper.joslin on February 4, 2020

As a business leader, you’ve noticed it is becoming more and more difficult to hire and retain qualified workers. You’ve likely even considered the longer-term scenarios – will it be even more challenging to secure a reliable and productive workforce five or 10 or even 20 years from now?  

Child Care Prepare: Infant Toddler Emergency Evacuation

By cooper.joslin on February 3, 2020

  Introduction  Caring for infants and toddlers is a big responsibility under “normal” conditions. However, when something unforeseen happens, such as a natural disaster or emergency event, caring for children becomes an even greater responsibility. 

Child Care Research: Year in Review 2019 Edition

By cooper.joslin on January 29, 2020

Throughout the year, CCAoA monitors the latest, most important research findings about child care. The information deserves a wide audience, so we’re launching Child Care Research: Year in Review to share some of the most significant studies from the past year.

Research Round Up: Food Allergies

By cooper.joslin on January 16, 2020

Understanding Food Allergy Education Needs in Early Childhood Schools  Fierstein, J.L., Chadha, A.S., Valaika, S.S., and Gupta, R.S. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (November 2019).  Background: Food allergies affect 5.6 million children in the United States, including about 8% of pre-Kindergarten children. Children in early care and education programs are at a particularly high... Read more »

Research Round Up: Screen Time

By cooper.joslin on January 15, 2020

Associations Between Screen-Based Media Use and Brain White Matter Integrity in Preschool-Aged Children Hutton, J.S., Dudley, J., Horowitz-Kraus, T., DeWitt, T., and Holland, S.K. JAMA Pediatrics (November 2019).  Background: Many children under age 6 regularly spend time in front of TVs, computers and digital devices. Research shows that too much screen time at an early age... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Workplace Stress

By cooper.joslin on January 14, 2020

  The Problem Child care professionals are aware that workplace stress can affect their physical and emotional health. They many want to reduce their stress levels, but need help identifying and implementing effective strategies. 

January News & Resources about the 2020 Census

By cooper.joslin on January 14, 2020

Happy New Year! It’s finally 2020, Census year. You’ve been preparing and now it’s here.  While the Census will occur throughout the year, in some parts of the country the count will begin as early as this month.   New research shows that much work needs to be done to help families understand the importance of... Read more »

Emergency Preparedness Training-of-Trainers Opportunity to Be Offered at 2020 Symposium

By cooper.joslin on January 6, 2020

Child Care Aware® of America’s (CCAoA) biennial event, Symposium, takes place this spring. Join CCAoA on May 3-6, 2020 near Arlington, Virginia as we bring together individuals from across the country to discuss research, policy and practices related to the early child care and education community. This year’s four-day event offers the opportunity to connect... Read more »

CCAoA’s Statement on FY2020 Appropriations and Early Childhood Funding

By cooper.joslin on December 21, 2019

Congress and the White House have officially approved federal funding for the remainder of FY2020, reaching a bipartisan agreement that provides more than $1 billion in increased funding for federal early childhood programs, including:

Child Care Aware® of America Statement on the White House Summit on Child Care and Paid Leave: Supporting America’s Working Families

By cooper.joslin on December 12, 2019

In response to today’s White House Summit on Child Care and Paid Leave, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) Executive Director Dr. Lynette M. Fraga released the following statement:

Research Round Up: Infectious Disease

By cooper.joslin on December 11, 2019

Association of Seasonal Severity and Vaccine Effectiveness with Influenza Vaccination Rates in Children Abraham, C., Chen, Q., Fan, W., Stockwell, M. Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics (November 2019). Background: Childhood vaccination rates for the flu tend to be much lower than vaccination rates for other diseases. The percentage of children receiving the flu vaccine has dropped... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Speaks Out Against Deregulation; in Support of Investments

By cooper.joslin on December 10, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America has responded to the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the Department of Health and Human Services and their notice for a request for information (RFI) on “Improving Access to Affordable, High Quality Child Care.” 

Health Resource Spotlight: Caring for Children with Special Needs & Good Oral Health in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on December 10, 2019

  Caring for Children with Special Needs The Problem Some providers may be – for the first time – serving a child who has a disability or special needs. They likely will have to modify their setting in small ways to create an inclusive environment. Where do they begin? 

Research Round Up: Nutrition

By cooper.joslin on December 9, 2019

Association of WIC Participation and Growth and Developmental Outcomes in High-Risk Infants  Lakshmanan, A., Song, A., Flores-Fenlon, N., Parti, U., Vanderbilt, D., Friedlich, P., Williams, R., Kipke, M. Clinical Pediatrics (October 2019).  Background: Nutrition is critical for healthy brain development in infants and toddlers, particularly those who are born prematurely. Federal food programs like Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants,... Read more »

Giving Thanks for Child Care Professionals, Advocates and Policy Wins

By cooper.joslin on November 27, 2019

As Thanksgiving nears, we’ve been reflecting on the things that we’re grateful for this season. First and foremost, we’re thankful for the child care professionals who are taking care of our nation’s 12.5 million children under age 6 who are in child care. These providers work long hours, for often unlivable wages, to provide safe,... Read more »

Census 2020 – Count All Kids Alert

By cooper.joslin on November 21, 2019

Once every 10 years, our nation undergoes the gargantuan task of “counting every one, only once, and in the right place.” An accurate census count is critical to the federal government accurately distributing more than $800 billion in federal funds each year. Accurate counts in the census affect federal funding distributions for many public programs... Read more »

Examining Gaps in Infant-Toddler Care Across New York

By cooper.joslin on November 18, 2019

It’s no secret that families across the country with infants and toddlers struggle to access licensed child care more than families with preschoolers – Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies have been shouting this from the rooftops for decades! Over the past two years, Child Care Aware® of America has worked with CCR&Rs in five states to quantify... Read more »

Research Round Up: Mental and Behavioral Health

By cooper.joslin on November 14, 2019

Trauma-Informed Behavioral Parenting for Early Intervention  Agazzi, H., Adams, C., Ferron, E., Shaffer-Hudkins, E., and Salloum, A. Journal of Child and Family Studies (May 2019).  Background: Children who experience traumatic events like divorce, abuse and domestic violence (what we call Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs) may have difficulty forming supportive relationships and have higher rates of poor mental health later... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Eliminating Lead in Home-Based Programs

By cooper.joslin on November 13, 2019

  The problem Lead is unsafe to consume, inhale, or absorb at any level. Yet lead-based paint is common in homes built before 1978 and a home’s drinking water or soil can be contaminated with lead. How can home-based providers protect themselves and the children in their care? 

Bug Busting in Early Care and Education Settings

By cooper.joslin on October 30, 2019

This is a free online course from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on managing infectious diseases in group care settings. The course is approved for 1.0 contact hours of training credit.  As described by AAP, the topic is important because millions of children attend early care and education settings every day. During the first 2 years of attendance,... Read more »

The Child Care Supply Crisis: Why Deregulation Is Not The Answer

By cooper.joslin on October 28, 2019

Over the past few years, legislators and state administrators have noticed an alarming trend: a substantial decline in the number of child care providers. How much of a decline? Well, according to the National Center on Early Childhood Quality Assurance, the number of small, licensed family child care homes fell by 35% between 2011 and 2017.  

Use The US and the High Price of Care Report to Advocate for Child Care Policies

By cooper.joslin on October 25, 2019

At Child Care Aware® of America, we understand the importance of translating research findings into actions. Each year, our network of passionate advocates use our research to advocate for child care policies that increase access to affordable, high-quality child care.  This research drives public dialogue on the issue and informs policymakers and advocates in their work. The US and... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Vroom and Brightside Up

By cooper.joslin on October 25, 2019

I’m Tricia Howland, the Director of Family & Community Engagement at Brightside Up, Inc. I’ve been at the agency for 20 years helping parents find child care, engaging in community events and facilitating family workshops. Vroom has been an exciting addition to the work we do at the Brightside Up, Inc. The Brightside Up agency... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Keep it Simple

By cooper.joslin on October 22, 2019

Brain development is a complex process involving chemical and electrical interactions. We now have decades of research describing how learning occurs and how brains develop. We have equipment that allows us to watch the brain in action and we now know about synaptic pruning. None of that really matters to a mom who just wants... Read more »

Highlights from the 2019 Leadership Institute

By cooper.joslin on October 21, 2019

The 2019 Leadership Institute has come to an end, and we are in full planning mode for our 2020 Symposium – Breakthrough Barriers, Breakout Solutions on May 3 – 6 in Crystal City, Virginia. But before we put the 2019 Leadership Institute to bed, I wanted to share some of the highlights from the week.

Vroom Ambassador: Providing Tools to Serve Families and Partners

By cooper.joslin on October 17, 2019

The Child Care Resource Network (TCCRN) is the child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agency housed within Right Steps Child Development Centers. We provide services to family, ECE and OST programs, and the communities of 12 counties in northwest Indiana. TCCRN, in partnership with Right Steps Child Development Centers, was selected as one of ten... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Vroom Continues in Florida

By cooper.joslin on October 11, 2019

As one of the first ambassadors in the cadre of Vroom Ambassadors for Child Care Aware® of America, the Office of Early Learning (OEL) continues to promote Vroom throughout the state of Florida. Vroom is such a unique resource for families that it is easy to connect Vroom to many other initiatives promoted by our... Read more »

Celebrate Children’s Environmental Health Day!

By cooper.joslin on October 10, 2019

At Child Care Aware® of America, we believe that all children deserve clean air, clean water, safe food and products, and healthy places to live, learn and play. That’s why we’re partnering with the Children’s Environmental Health Network and dozens of partners around the country to celebrate Children’s Environmental Health Day today. Alongside our partners,... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Safety in Early Care and Education

By cooper.joslin on October 8, 2019

  The problem Keeping young children safe is a priority for child care providers. But safety practices vary, depending on a child’s age and developmental stage. Keeping an infant safe can be very different than keeping a toddler safe.

Research Round Up: Obesity Prevention

By cooper.joslin on October 7, 2019

Multisector Approach to Improve Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Policies and Practices in Early Care and Education Programs: The National Early Care and Education Learning Collaboratives Project, 2013–2017  Garvin, T.M., Weissenburger-Moser Boyd, L., Chiappone, A., Blaser, C., Story, M., Gertel-Rosenberg, A., Shuell, J., Chang, D., Ward, D., Plumlee, C., Beets, M., and Yaroch, A.L. Preventing Chronic Disease (July 2019).  Background: Children begin building healthy... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Vroom and Child Care Aware of Kansas

By cooper.joslin on October 4, 2019

Child Care Aware of Kansas (CCAKS) is the statewide administrator of the Child Care Resource and Referral network in Kansas. As a managing state agency we are proud to serve 105 counties, ranging from frontier to urban populations, alongside our partnering agencies: Child Start, The Family Conservancy and Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas. Our... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: The Children’s Cabinet

By cooper.joslin on September 27, 2019

Since 1985, The Children’s Cabinet’s mission has been to keep children safe and families together by providing services and resources that address unmet needs through a unique and effective cooperative effort between the private sector and public agencies in Nevada. By offering a wide range of community programs, the goal of the agency’s founders was... Read more »

Understanding Policies for Sick Children in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 19, 2019

This Monday, September 16, The New York Times ran an op-ed highlighting the importance of rational inclusion and exclusion policies for sick children in early childhood education settings. We at Child Care Aware® of America are excited that this important issue is getting attention, and thank the Times for underscoring the ramifications of inclusion and... Read more »

New Report Reveals How And Where Families Find and Access Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 19, 2019

Families and field professionals shared accounts that can influence strategies for child care system professionals to meet and engage with families more effectively and efficiently. WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) released Family Voices Driving Quality Child Care Choices, a report on findings and recommendations from a survey of families on the contemporary child care... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: How Providers Serve Families With Different Languages

By cooper.joslin on September 12, 2019

  The problem: Many child care programs serve families whose native language is different than the provider’s. Communication on routine matters can be problematic, so how can providers share information with families on more complicated issues like early brain development or toxic stress?

What’s a Healthy Transition from Child Care to School Look Like?

By cooper.joslin on September 12, 2019

For many families across the country, their little ones are going to school for the first time. Whether starting a brand new routine after being cared for in a home-based setting or if care was provided in a child care center, going to “big-kid school” is a big deal! It is a lot of change... Read more »

Infographic: Family Voices Driving Quality Child Care Choices

By cooper.joslin on September 9, 2019

In our recent paper, Family Voices: Driving Quality Child Care Choices, we examined the child care needs of families facing vulnerabilities (low-income, racial and ethnic minorities, families with children with special needs, etc.), and how they find the child care that fits their needs. Our infographic below shows many  of the findings at a glance. 

The 4 Steps of Finding a Child Care Provider

By cooper.joslin on September 6, 2019

Finding the right child care provider for your family is a personal choice, and not one that can be outsourced very easily. Child Care Aware® of America Executive Director Lynette Fraga, PhD, spoke with Scott MacFarlane of NBC Washington about some specific questions parents can ask, ways to assess your unique family needs and how to... Read more »

How Underserved Families Are Finding Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 5, 2019

Every week in the United States, nearly 11 million children younger than age 5 are in some type of child care. All families benefit from having high-quality and affordable child care options, but finding such care can be challenging, especially for families facing adverse situations. Families with low incomes, or who are otherwise vulnerable, experience... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Child Care Aware of Northwest Arkansas

By cooper.joslin on September 3, 2019

Vroom has added value to the family and community engagement efforts of Child Care Aware of Northwest Arkansas (NWA), as it has reinforced our training on brain development. Most parents are happy to learn that they already “have what it takes” to help their children’s brain development. Here’s how we’ve used Vroom tips as conversation... Read more »

Minimizing Lead Exposure in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on August 29, 2019

When the Flint, MI water crisis hit the news in 2015, people around the world took notice. Hundreds of children across Flint had alarmingly high blood lead levels. Many still do. The problem was quickly traced back to lead contamination in the city’s water supply. The water that Flint’s families and caregivers used to cook,... Read more »

Understanding When and Why Sick Kids Should Stay Home

By cooper.joslin on August 27, 2019

Parents rely on child care so they can go to work, and many are left scrambling when their child gets sick. Providers have more than one child to care for, so they have to make tough decisions about whether to allow a sick child to come and risk the health of other children. That’s why... Read more »

Teach Digital Literacy, Not Just Technology Use

By cooper.joslin on August 22, 2019

As NAEYC stated in a policy statement issued on January 2012, “technology and interactive media are here to stay.” However, there remain many questions as to whether technology use with children in early childhood settings is beneficial or harmful to their development.

Taking Care of Young Children is Messy Business!

By cooper.joslin on August 20, 2019

Taking care of young children is messy business! Between diaper changes, runny noses and regular play time, providers are always thinking about sanitation in order to keep their children and themselves from getting sick. Sanitation practices are woven throughout a lot of different parts of a child care provider’s day, from making sure the center... Read more »

Family Voices: Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention and Response

By cooper.joslin on August 19, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America stands alongside families, providers, and the public in our shared commitment to the safety and well-being of children in child care. In 2016, an estimated 676,000 children in the United States were victims of neglect or abuse. A fraction of that total (2,104) involved a child care provider. That’s unacceptable... Read more »

CCAoA Member Exclusive: Trauma Informed Resources from Sesame Street in Communities!

By cooper.joslin on August 15, 2019

For more than 50 years, Sesame Street has worked to build stronger, smarter and kinder communities. Now, they’re coming to your neighborhood. Sesame Street in Communities, together with Child Care Aware® of America, is excited to provide free resources for parents and providers working to get every child in their lives school ready. We are recruiting... Read more »

Helping Caregivers Understand Immunization Requirements

By cooper.joslin on August 14, 2019

As older kids go back to school and as younger children switch child care, August is National Immunization Awareness month. This is a great time for CCR&Rs to get ready to answer questions parents might have about why immunizations are important and inform them of their state or local immunization requirements. There has been a... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Collaborating With Vroom in North Carolina

By cooper.joslin on August 13, 2019

Collaborating with Vroom has been exciting and informative here at the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are the child care resource and referral agency serving the nine counties of Alleghany, Ashe, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Stokes, Surry, Wilkes and Yadkin. Over the past several months, as a Vroom Ambassador, CCRC had... Read more »

Why August is This Year’s Most Crucial Month for Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on August 12, 2019

As the last full month of summer, August is usually filled with vacations and back-to-school planning. This August, however, will also be 2019’s most crucial month for child care advocacy. Here’s why:   Last month, immediately before their August recess, Congress finally approved a deal to raise the spending caps through FY2021. Under this deal, non-defense discretionary funding—the... Read more »

Helping Your Child Go Places Through Literacy

By cooper.joslin on August 8, 2019

All parents want their children to be able to read, write and speak well, but it won’t happen overnight. Literacy starts at birth and grows over many years.

Ayudando a Su Hijo a Ampliar Sus Fronteras con el Alfabetismo

By cooper.joslin on August 8, 2019

Todo padre quiere que sus hijos sepan leer, escribir y hablar bien. Pero esto no sucederá de la noche a la mañana. El alfabetismo comienza con el nacimiento de su hijo y va creciendo.

Family Voices: Harper’s Story – Tragedy  Outside a Provider’s Home

By cooper.joslin on August 8, 2019

Harper was a typical toddler full of love, laughs and life, when a tragic event happened outside the home of her family child care provider in the summer of 2016. In the video below, Harper’s mother, Whitney, shares her story and what she hopes parents and providers will do to keep children safe. 

Helping Child Care Providers Understand The Measles Immunizations

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2019

It’s August, which means it is National Immunization Awareness month. It’s never been more important to talk about immunizations than now. Already in August, there have already been 1,164 cases of measles across the United States this year. That’s more than any single year since 1994. About one-quarter of this year’s cases have affected children... Read more »

Coming Soon! The Child Care Data Center

By cooper.joslin on August 5, 2019

We are excited to announce that Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is partnering with the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago to build a website that compiles and standardizes child care data from across the nation. This effort will ensure that child care systems, policies and funding decisions are based... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America and NORC at the University of Chicago to Build Child Care Data Center

By cooper.joslin on August 1, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America and NORC at the University of Chicago to Build Child Care Data Center New website will address access to reliable, standardized data about child care in the United States

Family Voices: Reflections from a Child Care Advocate, Sosha Chaney

By cooper.joslin on August 1, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America had the opportunity to sit down with Sosha Chaney, a vocal child care advocate, as she shared her journey. Sosha is especially passionate about improving: Access to reliable, education-based child care for families working non-traditional hours Affordable, high-quality child care options Funding and support for early childhood programs

Vroom Ambassador: Family Connections Montana Strengthening Family Engagement

By cooper.joslin on July 30, 2019

Vroom provides interactive tools and resources that highlight the science behind early brain development, showing parents how they can turn everyday activities like bath time and meal time into opportunities that build their children’s brains. The Vroom Partnership at Child Care Aware® of America is made up of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies who... Read more »

Food And Fitness – Making Healthy Habits A Family Affair

By cooper.joslin on July 25, 2019

Eating and exercise habits are learned. Children aren’t born knowing what is “good” for them. Children watch and do what their parents and siblings do. They want to eat what everyone else eats, and want to do what they see their family members doing. By helping children choose and learn to love healthy foods and... Read more »

Alimentación y Salud

By cooper.joslin on July 25, 2019

Los hábitos relacionados con la alimentación y el ejercicio se aprenden. Los niños no nacen sabiendo lo que es “bueno” para ellos. Los niños observan y hacen lo que hacen sus padres y sus hermanos. Quieren comer lo que todos los demás comen, y quieren hacer lo que ven hacer a los otros miembros de... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: You Already Have What it Takes!

By cooper.joslin on July 23, 2019

Vroom provides interactive tools and resources that highlight the science behind early brain development, showing parents how they can turn everyday activities like bath time and meal time into opportunities that build their children’s brains. The Vroom Partnership at Child Care Aware® of America is made up of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies who... Read more »

Social Emotional Health and the Child Care Workforce

By cooper.joslin on July 22, 2019

In the first three blogs of this series, we explored topics related to the social-emotional health of children. CCAoA believes that in quality child care programs, the health and safety of providers and staff is equally important. In this final blog, we address the social-emotional health of these essential caregivers. 

Family Voices: Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies Are Here For You

By cooper.joslin on July 18, 2019

The end of summer is a busy time for families seeking child care. Prepare yourself by watching  this video describing what families and child care resource and referral (CCR&R) professionals, from around the nation, have to say about child care assistance available in your community.

Supporting Breastfeeding Infants During an Emergency

By cooper.joslin on July 17, 2019

Guest Blog Post by Kris Nicholson, Child Care Aware of Kansas and Brenda Bandy, Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition Being prepared for an emergency is top priority for many including those in the child care field. The Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition Child Care Section recently discovered a gap in information for what to do when a breastfeeding infant... Read more »

Digital Content for Your Summer Outreach!

By cooper.joslin on July 15, 2019

Children’s learning never takes a vacation.  Just in time for summer, Child Care Aware® of America’s SMART Suite has been refreshed with new digital content that CCR&Rs can easily share with families and early care and education providers.

Trauma-Informed Care

By cooper.joslin on July 15, 2019

When we talk about health and safety in child care, the discussion is often on reducing or eliminating physical threats to children’s well-being (e.g., unsafe playground equipment of the spread of an infectious disease). CCAoA believes that quality child care helps build healthy children, including their healthy social and emotional development. But what about children who have experienced... Read more »

Nearby, Faraway, and Raising Grandchildren

By cooper.joslin on July 11, 2019

Whether it’s “grandma,” “granny,” “nana,” “bubbe,” “abuela,” or “gramps,” “pop-pop,” or “g-pa,” a grandparent can make a real difference in a child’s life. In all ethnicities, cultures, and walks of life, grandparents are the link to a family’s culture, history, and traditions. Children fortunate enough to have loving grandparents in their lives have a powerful... Read more »

Los Abuelos – Cercanos, Lejanos y Criando Nietos

By cooper.joslin on July 11, 2019

No importa que se le diga “abuela,” “abuelita,” “nana,” o “mamabuela,” o “abuelo,” “abuelito,” “tata,” o “papabuelo,” un abuelo puede hacer una diferencia sustancial en la vida de un niño. En todas las etnicidades, culturas y sociedades, los abuelos son el vínculo con la cultura, historia y tradiciones de la familia. Los niños que tienen... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Early Childhood Alliance Experience with Vroom

By cooper.joslin on July 11, 2019

Vroom provides interactive tools and resources that highlight the science behind early brain development, showing parents how they can turn everyday activities like bath time and meal time into opportunities that build their children’s brains. The Vroom Partnership at Child Care Aware® of America is made up of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies who... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Talking to Families About Home Safety

By cooper.joslin on July 10, 2019

  The problem Providers are committed to promoting children’s health and safety, both in the child care setting and at home. However, many providers report that they are uncertain about how to talk to family members about difficult or potentially sensitive issues. 

What is Responsive Caregiving?

By cooper.joslin on July 8, 2019

When we talk about health and safety in child care, the discussion is often focused on reducing or eliminating physical threats to children’s well-being (e.g., unsafe playground equipment or the spread of an infectious disease). CCAoA believes that child care is a place where the whole environment helps build healthy children, including their healthy social and emotional development. This... Read more »

Vroom Ambassador: Sharing Vroom with Parents, Child Care Professionals and the Chemung County Community

By cooper.joslin on July 2, 2019

Guest Blogger – Ruth A. Harvey, Executive Director – Chemung County Child Care Council, Inc.- Elmira, New York Vroom provides interactive tools and resources that highlight the science behind early brain development, showing parents how they can turn everyday activities like bath time and meal time into opportunities that build their children’s brains. The Vroom... Read more »

What is Social-Emotional Health?

By cooper.joslin on July 1, 2019

When we talk about health and safety in child care, the discussion is often focused on reducing or eliminating physical threats to children’s well-being (e.g., unsafe playground equipment or the spread of an infectious disease). But there’s something else just as important as safeguarding children’s physical health: promoting their mental health. In young children, mental health is the same thing as... Read more »

Developing Language With Your Child

By cooper.joslin on June 26, 2019

Most young children develop language rapidly, moving from crying and cooing in infancy to using hundreds of words and understanding their meanings by the time they are ready to enter kindergarten. Language development is a major accomplishment and is one of the most rewarding experiences for parents to share with their children.

Cómo Desarrollar el Lenguaje con su Hijo

By cooper.joslin on June 26, 2019

La mayoría de los niños pequeños desarrollan rápidamente el lenguaje, pasando del llanto y el arrullo en la infancia al uso y comprensión de cientos de palabras para cuando ya están listos para ingresar al kindergarten. El desarrollo del lenguaje es un logro importante, y es además una de las experiencias más gratificadoras que los... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Releases Findings of 2019 Annual State Survey on Child Care

By cooper.joslin on June 26, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America Releases Findings of 2019 Annual State Survey on Child Care State fact sheets provide high-level analysis and national roll-ups of the child care landscape at the state level and show an alarming decline in family child care providers andinconsistent quality 

Beat the Heat: The Heat Index

By cooper.joslin on June 20, 2019

July is the hottest time of year for much of the United States, according to the Weather Channel. With relative humidity and actual air temperature both peaking during the later summer months, the end of summer can be especially hazardous to children playing outside. Rather than just sweating it out and complaining about the heat, it’s critical to learn how to keep... Read more »

Statement from Executive Director on the Passing of MaryLee Allen

By cooper.joslin on June 20, 2019

MaryLee Allen, who for more than 40 years was a leader in advocacy for children’s welfare, health and safety with the Children’s Defense Fund, passed away on June 13, 2019. Allen joined CDF in 1974, the year after it was founded, where she worked on CDF’s first-ever policy report, Children Out of School in America. More... Read more »

Get Rid of Your Rock ‘n Play Sleepers Now

By cooper.joslin on June 19, 2019

Despite the fact that Fisher-Price issued a recall on April 12 of all 4.7 million Rock ‘n Play sleepers, there have been anecdotal reports that some of the sleepers are still in child care centers. The recall followed a safety warning from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Fisher-Price that said that 10 babies... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Releases 2019 Funding State Snapshots

By cooper.joslin on June 13, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America Releases 2019 Funding State Snapshots Licensed child care is in short supply, but Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies can help

Finding Child Care for Non-Traditional Work Schedules

By cooper.joslin on June 13, 2019

Today’s job market requires many employees to work shifts that start or end after most child care programs open or close. More and more businesses operate around the clock. Many companies work in shifts, which means employees work in the early mornings, evenings, nights, rotating schedules, weekends, holidays or extended hours. These non-traditional schedules affect... Read more »

Cómo Encontrar Servicios de Cuidado de Niños Para Horarios de Trabajo No Tradicionales

By cooper.joslin on June 13, 2019

El mercado laboral de hoy requiere que muchos empleados trabajen turnos que comienzan o terminan después de la hora de apertura o cierre de la mayoría de los programas de cuidado de niños. Un número de negocios cada vez mayor se mantienen en operación las 24 horas del día. Muchas compañías trabajan sobre la base... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Health and Safety Training

By cooper.joslin on June 11, 2019

  The problem  To protect the well-being of children in child care programs, federal law mandates that states set minimum health and safety training requirements for providers. What if a program seeks to go beyond the minimum? 

Exceeding the Vision, Expanding the Possibilities

By cooper.joslin on May 30, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America is in full planning mode for our 2019 Leadership Institute – Exceeding the Vision, Expanding the Possibilities. This year our Institute will be held in beautiful Minneapolis, Minnesota, from October 6 – 9 at the Embassy Suites Hotel.    The Leadership Institute (formerly known as the State Network Leadership Institute / Membership Council Institute) was created to enhance... Read more »

Por Qué es Importante Elegir Cuidado de Niños de Alta Calidad

By cooper.joslin on May 30, 2019

La elección de un proveedor de cuidado de niños es una decisión importante. Los buenos arreglos para el cuidado de niños pueden mejorar la vida diaria no sólo de los niños sino también de los padres. Por otro lado, los niños que participan en programas de cuidado de niños de alta calidad tienen niveles más... Read more »

Why Choosing Quality Child Care Matters

By cooper.joslin on May 30, 2019

Choosing child care is an important decision. Good child care arrangements can improve the daily lives of children and parents. In addition, children in high quality care have higher levels of success when they enter school. Yet it can be difficult and confusing to know what to look for in a program. What exactly is... Read more »

Explore A Broader Definition of Health in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on May 28, 2019

Since 2015, Child Care Aware® of America’s Health Policy Team has partnered with teams in 12 states to explore a broader definition of health in child care through our “Healthy Child Care, Healthy Communities” technical assistance project. Along with our state partners, we conducted research, communications and advocacy projects covering diverse health topics from nutrition and active play to injury prevention and... Read more »

Family Voices: Turning Heartbreak to Happiness

By cooper.joslin on May 21, 2019

Even with early and careful planning, finding the right child care provider can be difficult for families. The challenges often seem overwhelming for parents searching for a provider that is qualified to care for a child with special needs.  

CCR&Rs’ Role in Closing Child Care Supply and Demand Gaps

By cooper.joslin on May 20, 2019

Did you know that there are approximately 12.5 million children in some sort of regular child care arrangement? Yet there are communities across the country where the supply of child care doesn’t meet the need for child care. Child Care Aware® of America helped states quantify families’ child care needs through our Mapping the Gap™ project, and learned a lot about child care... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Releases Report on Child Care Supply Crisis and Offers Solutions

By cooper.joslin on May 16, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America Releases Report on Child Care Supply Crisis and Offers Solutions Licensed child care is in short supply, but Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies can help

Interrogantes Relacionados Con el Cuidado De Niños y Su Lugar de Trabajo

By cooper.joslin on May 16, 2019

Un número cada vez mayor de empleados luchan más duro que nunca para establecer un equilibrio entre las demandas de su trabajo y las de sus vidas familiares. Estudios demuestran que los padres que trabajan presentan una tasa creciente de ausentismo del trabajo al verse obligados a buscar servicios de cuidado de niños, hacer arreglos... Read more »

Child Care Issues and Your Workplace

By cooper.joslin on May 16, 2019

More and more employees are struggling harder than ever to balance the demands of their work and home lives. Studies show that working parents have an increasing rate of absenteeism as they search for child care, juggle school holidays, care for sick children, adjust for sick child care providers, schedule school conferences, and respond to... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Safety and Environment E-Book

By cooper.joslin on May 8, 2019

  Environmental Health The problem: Providers recognize that significant environmental issues exist in some child care programs. However, identifying and addressing these issues can seem like an overwhelming task. One solution: Safety and Environment: Protecting Kids from Hidden Hazards, a new e-book from CCAoA, which contains concrete actions that CCR&Rs and providers can take to... Read more »

Planning for Summer

By cooper.joslin on May 2, 2019

Opportunities and Challenges Summer is right around the corner and it’s not too soon to start planning. While your need for child care is year-round, summertime offers special opportunities as well as challenges. Even for very young children, child care schedules often follow a school year model with transitions in June or September. For some... Read more »

Planificación para el Verano

By cooper.joslin on May 2, 2019

Oportunidades y Retos Ya viene el verano, y ahora es el momento oportuno de empezar a hacer planes. Si bien la necesidad que usted tiene de contar con servicios de cuidado de niños dura todo el año, la época de verano ofrece no sólo retos sino también oportunidades especiales. Hasta para los niños muy pequeños,... Read more »

Family Voices: The 2019 Child Care Works Summit Energizes and Inspires Action!

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2019

Wendy Nycz is a family advocate from Wisconsin who shared her experience after attending the 2019 Child Care Works Summit. Earlier this month, Catey Rice and I had the honor of attending the 2019 Child Care Works Summit alongside 22 other Family Advocates and about 150 child care resource and referral professionals from 32 states, plus D.C. I was... Read more »

Help Caregivers Provide Support During Measles Outbreak

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2019

It’s May and there have already been 704 cases of measles across the U.S. this year. That’s more than any single year since 1994. About one-quarter of this year’s cases have affected children under age 5. And nine times out of ten, the person who got sick was either unvaccinated or unsure if they were... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Statement On The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Markup

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America Statement On The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Markup WASHINGTON, DC — In response to the child care funding increase passed yesterday by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) Executive Director Dr. Lynette... Read more »

Promising Practices: Advancing Family Partnerships

By cooper.joslin on April 26, 2019

In 2017, Early Learning Indiana (ELI), with the support of the Lilly Endowment, launched the Family Engagement Prize Competition. Recently completing their second year, this statewide prize competition highlights family engagement innovation and excellence in early care and education (ECE) programs. The Prize Competition celebrates the exemplary actions of ECE professionals to empower families’ in... Read more »

Keeping Kids Safe in Parking Lots and Driveways

By cooper.joslin on April 25, 2019

Most child care providers have an on-site parking lot or driveway. This is a huge benefit for families and staff, making drop-off and pick-up a lot easier. But that benefit comes with some potentially big costs. Parking lots and driveways can present some serious risks to children’s health.  

No Small Matter Inspires Early Education Progress

By cooper.joslin on April 25, 2019

  How can we get people to not only see the value of high-quality early education, but understand we’re all harmed when access is limited and take action so all children can take advantage? At The Family Conservancy, like countless other organizations we work alongside, we have struggled with this challenge. It’s one thing to... Read more »

Put Us On Your Summer To-Do List!

By cooper.joslin on April 24, 2019

Summer is my favorite time of year and I find that it’s hard to accomplish everything I hope to achieve before the season ends. Recently, I started to brainstorm my summer “to-do” list to help me prioritize and plan my summer adventures. I’m not sure what you usually set your sights on, but typically on... Read more »

Family Routines and Rituals

By cooper.joslin on April 18, 2019

Routines are familiar patterns and habits on which families rely to manage their daily lives. As parents often look for ways to save time and be organized, routines become a much needed helping hand. By setting daily schedules, creating family message centers, and arranging storage for personal belongings, families can stay in control of their... Read more »

Rutinas y Ritos Familiares

By cooper.joslin on April 18, 2019

Las rutinas son patrones y hábitos familiares de los que las familias dependen para manejar su vida diaria. Debido a que los padres con frecuencia buscan formas de organizarse y economizar tiempo, las rutinas se convierten en una fuente de apoyo de mucha utilidad. Cuando establecen calendarios diarios, crean centros familiares para mensajes y hacen... Read more »

Family Voices: A Father’s Perspective in Family Engagement

By cooper.joslin on April 17, 2019

Ray is a father, grandparent, kinship provider, and role model for children in his community. He is an advocate for healthy parent-child relationships, father engagement, and accessible community resources. Most recently, he was part of the team that produced the PBS documentary, Finding Fatherhood In Colorado. 

Health Resource Spotlight: Family Child Care

By cooper.joslin on April 10, 2019

  Resources to Build and Retain the FCC Workforce  The problem: Across the nation, the supply of family child care providers is declining. What can be done to retain existing FCC providers, and attract new providers?  One solution: A suite of National Resources about Family Child Care, PUBLISH on the website of the Early Childhood Training and Technical... Read more »

Alivio del Estrés y Prevención del Enojo

By cooper.joslin on April 4, 2019

El estrés es un elemento de nuestra vida diaria: la lucha con su hijo de cuatro años para que coma a la hora del desayuno, el sobrecalentamiento de su auto en medio del tráfico, el retraso en recoger a su hijo del centro de cuidado de niños, las confrontaciones con otros miembros de la familia... Read more »

Stress Relief and Anger Prevention

By cooper.joslin on April 4, 2019

Stress is a part of our everyday lives: struggling with your four-year-old over breakfast food, having the car overheat in traffic, running late to pick up at the child care center, confronting family members about chores and household responsibilities.

Location Matters: Tips for Choosing a Safe Child Care Site

By cooper.joslin on April 3, 2019

When we think about health and safety in child care, it’s often related to hazards we can see. For instance, are providers and children washing their hands properly? Have cleaners and medications been locked away? Are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors present and functional? These are things that can affect children’s wellbeing right now.  At Child Care... Read more »

Family Voices: Public Investments Could Help End Poverty

By cooper.joslin on April 2, 2019

Achievement gaps start early for children in families with low incomes. Access to high-quality early care and education programs help young children develop social and emotional, language, and academic skills needed to succeed. In this blog, you will hear from Ashley, a family advocate who uses her personal experience to make the case for why... Read more »

Tips to Reduce the Use of Toxic Chemicals in Child Care Programs

By cooper.joslin on March 28, 2019

Keeping child care facilities clean and free of pests is one of the most important things we can do to prevent diseases from spreading. The challenge is that chemicals that providers use for cleaning and pest control are often toxic. And while that might be common knowledge for some, not everyone knows about the risks some cleaners... Read more »

Promising Practices: Discovering Innovative Ways to Provide Support to ECE Communities

By cooper.joslin on March 26, 2019

Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), serves California’s Northern Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. A few years ago, the agency was searching for an innovative way to provide parents, license-exempt providers, and family, friend and neighbor caregivers with early childhood support, information, and resources. CCRC also wanted a program that would strengthen their relationship with... Read more »

Trump Administration Shares Additional Materials to Support Its FY 2020 Budget

By cooper.joslin on March 22, 2019

On March 18, the Trump Administration PUBLISH additional materials to support its FY 2020 budget request to Congress.  While the budget request includes proposals to address the child care crisis in the U.S., it falls well short of what is needed long-term.  Additionally, the President’s request includes proposals that would harm millions of working families... Read more »

Spring Flooding: Tips to Prepare Child Care Providers

By cooper.joslin on March 22, 2019

Spring can’t come soon enough for you, right?  On the heels of a winter that gifted us with the polar vortex and record amounts of snowfall across much of the country, spring flooding is now a reality in much of the Midwest. While those living in the northern tier of the country may be wishing... Read more »

Cuidado Auxiliar Para los Hijos

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2019

Hasta los arreglos mejor planificados para el cuidado de su hijo pueden complicarse de vez en cuando. En ausencia de servicios de cuidado de emergencia, más comúnmente conocidos como servicios de cuidado auxiliar, los padres que trabajan pueden verse obligados a permanecer en casa o llevar a su hijo con ellos al trabajo. Pero si... Read more »

Back-Up Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2019

Even the best planned child care arrangements can be disrupted from time to time. Without emergency care, more commonly known as back-up care, working parents may be forced to stay home or bring their child to work with them. By planning ahead and knowing your options, you can be prepared to meet the unexpected.

Family Voices: A Grandmother’s Journey from Loss to Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on March 15, 2019

Have you ever asked yourself “what am I doing here?”  Why am I immersed in this situation?  Sometimes we tend to just roll with life and end up with missed opportunity because we don’t fully realize our potential or purpose in a situation.  Recently, I found myself in unfamiliar territory and couldn’t help but wonder what I... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Statement On The President’s Budget for 2020

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2019

WASHINGTON, DC — In response to the child care proposals in the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), executive director Dr. Lynette M. Fraga released the following statement:

Health Resource Spotlight: Infectious Disease Outbreaks

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2019

    The problem: Right now, there is widespread flu activity in 48 states and 11 states have reported outbreaks of the measles. How can adults talk to young children about what’s happening without scaring them? One solution: A tip sheet PUBLISH by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association (SAMHSA) on Talking with... Read more »

Workforce Wellness: A Call for Programs Doing it Well

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2019

The life of a child care provider is never easy. Every day they wear a dozen hats—teacher, nurse, referee, social worker and more. Providers give their all to make sure the children in their care have all the tools they need to grow up happy, healthy and ready to learn. But the stress of doing... Read more »

National CACFP Week: Raising Awareness of Nutrition in Your Child Care Program

By cooper.joslin on March 11, 2019

On March 17-23, we will celebrate National CACFP Week! Why? Child care is a place where many young children have their first experiences with new foods. Child care programs—family child care homes and child care centers—play a big role in helping children eat well, so they can learn and play. The Child and Adult Care... Read more »

Promising Practices: Sharing Brain Development Info with Parents

By cooper.joslin on March 8, 2019

Talk, Read, Play (TRP) is a unique education campaign that turns complex information about brain development in young children into a simple message parents can use to prepare their child for success in school and life: talk, read and play with your child every day.

Introducing: A Webinar Series Focused On Consumer Education Excellence

By cooper.joslin on March 4, 2019

It can happen suddenly—a job offer that starts next week, an injury, or news of expecting a baby are only a few of the situations that can leave a family suddenly searching for child care. Many families not only feel the pressure of their circumstances, but can become easily overwhelmed and struggle to understand the... Read more »

Ami Gadhia: Advancing our Mission as our New Chief of Policy, Programs and Research

By cooper.joslin on March 1, 2019

We are pleased to introduce our new Chief of Policy, Programs and Research, Ami Gadhia.  

Child Care Advocates Applaud Reintroduction of Child Care for Working Families Act

By cooper.joslin on February 26, 2019

Earlier today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) introduced the “Child Care for Working Families Act of 2019” on Capitol Hill.  At the press conference, Senator Murray was joined by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Bob Casey (D-PA), as well as several parent advocates. The legislation is nearly identical to the 2017... Read more »

Provider’s POV Shares Challenges in Offering Nonstandard Hours Care

By cooper.joslin on February 26, 2019

In January, we released a new report, “It’s About Time: Parents Who Work Nonstandard Hours Face Child Care Challenges,” where we highlighted the need for and the obstacles in accommodating nonstandard hours child care. We also highlighted groups who are doing it right! Here is one child care provider’s journey to provide nonstandard hours care in... Read more »

Promising Practices: Encouraging Early Learning Activities at Home

By cooper.joslin on February 22, 2019

  In February 2017, the Early Learning Coalition of Duval (ELCD) County, Florida joined forces with Jacksonville Journey, a comprehensive community-wide crime prevention initiative. For a decade, Jacksonville Journey has focused on positive youth development, neighborhood safety, truancy, and dropout prevention and intervention. Leaders at ELCD also saw a need within the initiative for early... Read more »

No Todas las Familias Son Iguales

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2019

Hoy día, es posible observar muchas diferentes clases de familias. Si bien muchos niños viven en familias con sus dos padres, las familias ‘mixtas’ se han vuelto mucho más comunes. Los niños pueden tener relaciones familiares con hermanastros, padres adoptivos, hermanos adoptivos, dos mamás, medio hermanos, abuelos que hacen las veces de padres, y otros.

Families Are Not All Alike

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2019

Nowadays, it’s possible to observe many different types of families. While many children live with two parents, other family types have become much more common. Children can have family relationships with step-siblings, adoptive parents, adoptive siblings, two moms or two dads, a single parent, half-siblings, grandparents raising grandchildren, and others.

Los Niños y Los Medicamentos Fuera Del Hogar

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2019

El uso de medicamentos para tratar a los niños pequeños va en aumento. Este aumento puede atribuirse a diversas causas: el aumento en los tratamientos para el asma, una mayor dependencia de los médicos para controlar el comportamiento, y el aumento en la incidencia de ciertas enfermedades. Aunque la mayoría de los medicamentos que se... Read more »

Children and Medication Outside the Home

By cooper.joslin on February 21, 2019

The use of medication for young children is on the rise. This increase is due to several reasons: the increase in asthma treatments, a greater reliance on medication for behavior control, and the increased incidence of some diseases. Most medications given to children are for colds, infections and pain or fever, but many children are diagnosed... Read more »

CCW Summit Spotlight: Owning Your Expertise with the Media

By cooper.joslin on February 20, 2019

Living in the 24-hour news cycle can be exhausting and overwhelming for some. Still, many of us have important stories to tell and are experts in the field of child care and early education. At this year’s Child Care Works (CCW) Summit, we will have a media workshop where attendees will learn to embrace, rather... Read more »

The Wins that Will Mobilize & Unite Us as We Move Forward

By cooper.joslin on February 19, 2019

As we prepare for strategic planning for FY20-22, I have been reflecting on the great work we have done toward meeting our mission to advance a child care system that effectively serves all children and families. Every step we have taken gets us closer to fulfilling our vision: That every family in the United States... Read more »

Family Voices: Gratitude for Family Advocates who Fuel Policy  Advancements

By cooper.joslin on February 18, 2019

Engaging families meaningfully in child care advocacy has been central to Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA)’s mission for over a decade. The voices of families as they share their child care experiences are critically important to contextualizing the child care system challenges that we face nationwide. I have had the privilege of personally getting to know... Read more »

Promising Practices: Reaching Underserved Families and Caregivers

By cooper.joslin on February 15, 2019

  Bright by Three is a Colorado-based organization that equips families with tools to promote their child’s healthy development through the most pivotal stages of growth during the earliest years of life. The organization partners with pediatricians, researchers and other child development experts to design program materials in English and Spanish, delivered to families through a... Read more »

Ideas CCR&Rs can use to Strategically Prepare for Workforce Recommendations

By cooper.joslin on February 14, 2019

The Power to the Profession task force recently released the Decision Cycles 345 + 6 draft document. See a high-level overview of the decision cycles by downloading our fourth e-book in our Power to the Profession series: Understanding the Recommendations from Decision Cycles 345 + 6. The goal of these Decision Cycles is to establish the very... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Daily Health Checks

By cooper.joslin on February 13, 2019

The Problem:Child care providers are expected to do a daily health check for each of the children in their care. However, not all providers are aware of what a comprehensive health check entails.

Dr. Edward Zigler: Gone Now but His Legacy Lives On

By cooper.joslin on February 12, 2019

  This week, we lost a pioneer in early childhood education, Dr. Edward F.  Zigler. Dr. Zigler, who founded Yale’s Edward Zigler Center in Child Development and Social Policy, was a strong advocate for children and believed that even the poorest child deserved the best start. Head Start, the small summer program he helped plan,... Read more »

Elevating Dual Language Learners During DLL Shine Celebration Week

By cooper.joslin on February 12, 2019

Denise is a family child care provider who just enrolled a family who recently immigrated to the United States from El Salvador. Although the family speaks some English, their home language is Spanish and 3-year-old Jorge, their son, communicates solely in Spanish. Jorge has transitioned well into the program and enjoys playing with the other... Read more »

Statement from Deputy Executive Director on the Passing of Dr. Edward Zigler

By cooper.joslin on February 11, 2019

  Dr. Edward Zigler. Photo credit: Yale School of Medicine

Ringing in the New Year: Celebrating 35 Years of Service to Essex County

By cooper.joslin on February 11, 2019

  Dr. Beverly Lynn, CEO of Programs for Parents in Newark, New Jersey, wanted to do something really special to commemorate the 35th Anniversary of their non-profit organization, which serves as the principal advocate for child care services in Essex County and offers a full range of services, including professional development, technical assistance and parent... Read more »

Now Accepting Proposals! Health/Safety Training Opportunity for CCR&Rs

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2019

The National Center on Early Childhood Health and Wellness (NCECHW) is funding an initiative through Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) to provide CCR&Rs with critical health and safety trainings. Successful applicants will receive training curricula and resources on two topics required by the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). Emergency Preparedness, Response and... Read more »

Sentido Común en Asuntos de Dinero

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2019

Todos los padres enfrentan problemas de dinero con sus hijos. Esto puede causar frustración e incluso crear situaciones bochornosas. Sin embargo, existen algunos pasos específicos que puede tomar para ayudar a su hijo a aprender que el dinero no está disponible en forma ilimitada, que debe ganarse con el trabajo y que gastarlo implica la necesidad... Read more »

Dollars and Sense

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2019

How do I teach my child the value of a hard earned dollar?” “I want that toy!” wailed three-year-old Amy at the shopping mall. “But Mom, everyone at school has the Nike sneakers – not these!” exclaimed nine-year-old Jeff. “Dad, if you just loan me the money for the skates I’ll pay you back,” promised thirteen-year-old Will.

Why You Should Attend CCAoA’s Child Care Works Summit in April

By cooper.joslin on February 6, 2019

  This year, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) will host our first Child Care Works (CCW) Summit in Washington, DC on April 3-4. The summit is an abridged version of our regular biannual Symposium and will welcome Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency staff, child care providers, family advocates and other partners for... Read more »

Examining Child Care Supply and Demand Gaps for Babies in Your Community

By cooper.joslin on January 30, 2019

  For decades, Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies have prioritized tracking child care supply and demand in order to better serve the children, families and child care providers in their area. With the reauthorization of the Child Care and Development Block Grant in 2014, states are now required to do this, and CCR&Rs... Read more »

Healthy Child Care, Healthy Communities: Supporting Diverse Health Issues

By cooper.joslin on January 29, 2019

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) has a strong history in advocating for policies that protect the health of children. Background checks, health and safety training, and monitoring visits from the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) state agency are a few of the many recommendations that CCAoA has supported as foundational for protecting children in... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Congratulates Dr. Walter S. Gilliam As Newly Elected Board President

By cooper.joslin on January 25, 2019

Dr. Gilliam’s dedication to early childhood education research and analysis alongside his exceptional leadership in the fields of child psychiatry and psychology make him a sought after expert in the field.  

It’s About Time! What You Can Do About Nonstandard Hours Child Care Challenges

By cooper.joslin on January 24, 2019

An astounding 6.7 million children live in a single-parent household with a nonstandard hours (NSH) schedule. These workers are the fuel keeping our 24/7 economy running; they power the services that keep businesses running. Workers with NSH schedules don’t just keep things moving, but they also work nights and weekends to deliver services, care for us,... Read more »

New Report Shows Nonstandard Hours of Work Cause More Obstacles For Families and Children

By cooper.joslin on January 24, 2019

Working Parents Need More Than “Day” Care WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) released its Nonstandard Hours (NSH) Paper: “It’s About Time! Parents Who Work Nonstandard Hours Face Child Care Challenges,”  which found that the inadequate supply of NSH child care is problematic and raises concerns about access to safe, affordable, and... Read more »

Creating a School and Home Connection

By cooper.joslin on January 24, 2019

Children whose parents participate in their education, both in and out of the classroom, learn more effectively and are happier and more successful at school. Recent research shows that children have better report cards, greater self-esteem and a more successful future.

Creando una Conexión Entre Escuela y Hogar

By cooper.joslin on January 24, 2019

Los niños cuyos padres participan en su educación, tanto dentro como fuera del aula, reciben un aprendizaje más eficaz, son más contentos y cosechan mayores éxitos en la escuela. Estudios recientes revelan que tales niños reciben mejores notas, tienen un grado de autoestima más positivo y un futuro más exitoso.

Harper’s Story: An Unthinkable Tragedy and How You Can Prevent It

By cooper.joslin on January 23, 2019

Harper’s Story: An Unthinkable Tragedy and How You Can Prevent It  It was a day like any other. Harper was a typical toddler full of love, laughs and life, when the unthinkable happened. Listen to Harper’s mother, Whitney, share how the events of that tragic day unfolded. Providers: hear her recommendation for preventing tragedies like... Read more »

New Child Care Affordability Legislation Introduced

By cooper.joslin on January 18, 2019

New Hampshire Senator, Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), just reintroduced the “Right Start Child Care and Education Act,” which would help make child care more affordable for working class families by amending the federal tax code.

5 Ways Poverty Impacts Early Brain Development and How You Can Help

By cooper.joslin on January 17, 2019

Numerous studies show the foundation for lifelong learning is established during the first five years of brain development. Parents, child care providers and other adults providing care to children are instrumental in encouraging minds to grow healthy and strong. In fact, during these early years, more than one million new neural connections form every second.... Read more »

Promising Practices: Using Spanish Radio to Share Child Care Resources

By cooper.joslin on January 11, 2019

This story begins in 2008, with Romilia Schlueter—a respected leader in the Dane County, Wisconsin Latina/o community, with decades of experience in the family support and early childhood fields. At the time, she was working at a family resource center that was a member of Supporting Families Together Association (SFTA), Wisconsin’s statewide child care resource... Read more »

¿Está Su Niño Preparado Para Quedarse Solo en Casa?

By cooper.joslin on January 10, 2019

Para muchas familias que tienen niños más grandes, entre las edades de 9 y 12 años, llega un momento en que hay que decidir si el niño está listo para cuidarse solo. Mientras que algunos padres se van a su trabajo antes de que abra la escuela, otros terminan su trabajo mucho más tarde que... Read more »

Is Your Child Ready to Stay Home Alone?

By cooper.joslin on January 10, 2019

For many families with older children between the ages of 9 and 12, the time comes when you must decide if your child is ready to care for himself. While some parents leave for work before school opens, others finish work long after school is over. Often there are few sitters or after-school programs available... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Stress and Provider Health

By cooper.joslin on January 9, 2019

The Problem: Working in child care can be stressful and take a toll on many facets of a providers’ health, including oral health. 

Krista Scott Joins the Division for Early Childhood Board

By cooper.joslin on January 2, 2019

If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Krista Scott, she is the senior director of child care health policy here at Child Care Aware® of America. And recently, we are proud to announce that she was appointed to the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) executive board as the Member-at-Large. 

Celebrating Family Voices

By cooper.joslin on January 2, 2019

In 2018, families joined Child Care Aware® of America in a shared mission to move the needle on quality and affordable child care forward. Several issues topped their list of concerns: 

Child Care Aware® of America Announces New Board of Directors

By cooper.joslin on December 27, 2018

These distinguished individuals provide diverse views and expertise to further the mission of quality, affordable child care for all WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced three new members of its Board of Directors. Members of the Board have the unique opportunity to help shape the future of our national organization and... Read more »

Let’s Welcome Our Newest Board Members

By cooper.joslin on December 27, 2018

As we approach the end of an exciting year, I am pleased to share that several individuals will be joining the Child Care Aware® of America Board of Directors. Their addition to the board will help to better position the organization as a critical leader in service to children and families. They will be key... Read more »

Why 2019 Is a Critical Year for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on December 21, 2018

 This past year was huge for child care. In February, Congress finally reached a bipartisan agreement on the federal budget. The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 not only provided billions in “new” discretionary funding for the next two fiscal years but specifically pledged to double investments for child care. In March, Congress then passed the... Read more »

‘Tis The Season of Giving: How One CCR&R Won a $25K Grant

By cooper.joslin on December 20, 2018

  This year on Giving Tuesday, the unspoken “kick-off” to many holiday giving campaigns, Child Care Aware® of Missouri, decided to do something a little different. They threw their hat in the ring with over 160 other organizations, for a $25,000 Wells Fargo grant that focused on community building—and were one of 10 chosen grantees!

Criando a un Niño a Quien Le Gusta Leer

By cooper.joslin on December 20, 2018

Alimentar el Amor por la Lectura Alimentar el amor por la lectura y la escritura es un papel que los padres pueden desempeñar en la vida de sus hijos. El éxito en la escuela y más tarde en su carrera dependerá de tener buenas aptitudes para leer y escribir. Hoy en día, oímos hablar constantemente... Read more »

Krista Scott Appointed to Division for Early Childhood Executive Board

By cooper.joslin on December 19, 2018

The DEC promotes policies and advances evidence-based practices that support families and enhance the optimal development of young children (0-8) who have or are at risk for developmental delays and disabilities. The DEC Board focuses their time and effort on ensuring accountability of the organization to fulfill its organizational purposes.

Fee Assistance Programs: Serving and Supporting Our Military Families

By cooper.joslin on December 18, 2018

Deployments, trainings, frequent moves, new schools…our nation’s military families endure a high amount of stress and change. Finding child care is yet another challenge that military families face. Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) partners with the Armed Forces and other Department of Defense (DoD) Agencies to make life a little easier for these families... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Resources for Child Care Providers to Make Healthy Choices

By cooper.joslin on December 12, 2018

The Problem:  Child care providers care for and promote the health and wellness of our nation’s children but struggle to make healthy choices for themselves. 

Media Is A Powerful Force

By cooper.joslin on December 11, 2018

Children today are immersed in the media culture through television, video, computer games, and the Internet. Screen time is a daily part of family life for most Americans.

Los Medios de Comunicación Tienen Mucho Poder

By cooper.joslin on December 11, 2018

Hoy en día, los niños están sumergidos en la cultura de los medios de comunicación a través de la televisión, los videos, los juegos por computadoras y la Internet. Pasar algún tiempo frente a una pantalla se ha convertido en parte de la vida diaria de la mayoría de las familias de los Estados Unidos.

Toy Safety: Making Safe Choices This Holiday Season So Children Can Have Fun

By cooper.joslin on December 10, 2018

The holiday season is a great time for family, friends and fun. It’s also a time for giving gifts, especially for our excited little ones. When purchasing toys for our little ones, it’s important that they are not only age appropriate but safe.

Statement from CCAoA on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush

By cooper.joslin on December 6, 2018

As our nation mourns a president, child care advocates are mourning one of the fiercest defenders of critical child care infrastructures. President Bush pledged his continued support of the National Commission on Children, paving the way for key legislative victories including the establishment of the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and the Children’s... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Announces Second Cohort of Vroom Ambassadors

By cooper.joslin on December 4, 2018

Ambassadors will use the brain science embedded in Vroom to help families and providers build stronger communities WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced the second cohort of Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Vroom ambassadors. These selected agencies will strategically embed Vroom brain-building tips and materials in their local family and... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Announces Second Cohort of Vroom Ambassadors Ambassadors will use the brain science embedded in Vroom to help families and providers build stronger communities

By cooper.joslin on December 4, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced the second cohort of Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Vroom ambassadors. These selected agencies will strategically embed Vroom brain-building tips and materials in their local family and community outreach services. As part of an expanded partnership with the Bezos Family Foundation, CCAoA will deepen... Read more »

New Website Design, New Resources for Consumer Education

By cooper.joslin on November 29, 2018

  As a Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency, you play a critical role within your state and community. The work that you do every day to help families learn about and locate quality child care for their unique family needs is not only important to that specific family but to the community at... Read more »

The Kindergarten Connection

By cooper.joslin on November 29, 2018

Ensuring that children are ready to enter school to learn and succeed is not only the parents’ job. In fact, a national study released in April 1998, “Kindergarten Teachers and Classrooms: A Transition Context” emphasizes that the responsibility for successful transitions to kindergarten go beyond the kindergarten teachers as well.

A Propósito Del Kinder

By cooper.joslin on November 29, 2018

La Transición al Kinder es un Momento Crucial en el Desarrollo del Niño Asegurarse de que los niños al entrar a la escuela estén listos para aprender y tener éxito, no es responsabilidad exclusiva de los padres. En realidad, en un nuevo estudio nacional divulgado en abril de 1998, de título “Kindergarten Teachers and Classrooms:... Read more »

Support for Those Impacted by CA Wildfires: A Note from Our Deputy Executive Director

By cooper.joslin on November 27, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America stands with our friends in California who are working tirelessly to support children and families who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires. The organization will continue to support our members and partners through our emergency preparedness work, offering resources and assistance.

Child Care Aware® of America Offers Brain-Building Tips During Vroom Week: A creative approach to everyday interactions can help build children’s brains

By cooper.joslin on November 26, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is proud to host Vroom Week from November 26-30, 2018 to encourage families and caregivers to use simple prompts during daily moments to help build children’s brains.

How CCR&Rs Can Improve Access to Healthy Living in Their Community

By cooper.joslin on November 23, 2018

All children deserve to live their healthiest life, but not all children have access to the things they need to do so. At Child Care Aware® of America, we know the importance of you, the child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies—how you shape the way parents engage with providers and provide the child care... Read more »

How to Tie In Giving Tuesday to Your Fundraising Efforts

By cooper.joslin on November 20, 2018

  Giving Tuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is an international day of philanthropy, and for many charities, serves as the informal “kick-off” to their holiday giving campaigns. In 2017, over $300 million was raised online and 2.5 million people worldwide participated by making a gift.    The official Giving Tuesday website provides some examples of how... Read more »

New Grant to Support Increasing Access to High-Quality Child Care-Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Funds Unique National Partnership Led by NAEYC

By cooper.joslin on November 19, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC —  The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) today announced the receipt of a $1 million, one-year grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to support a unique multi-organizational advocacy and action strategy designed to increase equitable access to high-quality child care. Working in partnership with the Bipartisan Policy Center, the... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Steps for Toothbrushing at the Table

By cooper.joslin on November 14, 2018

The Problem: Early childhood programs are great places to help children learn good health habits, including oral health habits. But having children brush one at a time at the sink can be messy and time consuming. One Solution:  A group activity known as toothbrushing at the table, in which children and staff sit around a... Read more »

Agents of Change: Introducing a Familiar Face as Deputy Executive Director

By cooper.joslin on November 13, 2018

I am often asked what we “do” at Child Care Aware® Across America. My favorite answer is, “we change the world for children and those who care about and for them.” This audacious statement inevitably leads to a deeper conversation about children, families and the critical issue of child care in our nation. With a... Read more »

Child Care Resource & Referral: The Secret Solution

By cooper.joslin on November 9, 2018

Editor’s Note: This is the first installment in a series on CCR&Rs that is meant to be shared with policy makers, government administrators and other new and prospective investors who may not understand the opportunities CCR&Rs offer when addressing America’s child care challenges. Please leave us your insights and feedback in the comments below. We... Read more »

Fundraising Resources in Your Community and Online

By cooper.joslin on November 8, 2018

     Child Care Resource and Referral (CC&R&) Agencies are among the most important non-profit agencies in communities, connecting parents with needed services, building capacity in the child care market, and educating businesses and elected officials on child care needs. Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) wants to support your efforts in connecting with the broader non-profit... Read more »

Child Care and US: How Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies Can Help

By cooper.joslin on November 5, 2018

As a single parent, Sheena struggled to find high-quality, affordable child care. She found a child care resource and referral agency that helped her find the balance of affordability and quality.

Is My Child Safe?

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2018

It’s natural to worry a little. Parents know that young children need constant supervision. They take steps to “childproof” their homes. And still, children’s energy and curiosity can bring them into contact with safety hazards every day.

¿Está Seguro Mi Hijo?

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2018

Es natural preocuparse un poco. Los padres saben que los niños pequeños necesitan supervisión constante. Toman medidas para poner sus casas “a prueba de niños.” Y aun así, la energía y la curiosidad de los niños pueden ponerlos en contacto con peligros para su seguridad todos los días.

Get Ready for Vroom Week 2018!

By cooper.joslin on October 31, 2018

  Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is preparing to celebrate brain building for children birth to five with their annual Vroom Week November 26 – 30. Vroom is an early learning initiative that empowers parents, families and child care providers to turn everyday moments into brain-building moments with children up to 5 years old.... Read more »

Why I Chose Family, Friend and Neighbor (FFN) Care

By cooper.joslin on October 30, 2018

Twenty-two years ago I began the difficult quest of finding a child care provider that I could trust for my six-month-old son. Center-based care for Diego was out of the question. I wanted him in a “homey” place with a provider who could offer a seamless transition from home to child care in a location... Read more »

The Aftermath: How a Texas CCR&R Supported Providers Affected by Hurricane Harvey

By cooper.joslin on October 24, 2018

One year later, memories of the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey are grey and hazy, much like the lingering autumn skies that dropped trillions of gallons of water across Greater Houston. Before the flood waters receded, Collaborative for Children, the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the 13-county Greater Houston region, faced a critical... Read more »

The Cost of Child Care 2018: a Burden for Families across the Country

By cooper.joslin on October 22, 2018

Every single day in the United States families are faced with not having affordable child care. One of the highlights of our 2018 report, The US and the High Cost of Child Care, is the regional examination that takes a critical look at this issue of equity in child care.

Child Care Aware® of America’s 12th Annual Cost of Care Report Shows Child Care Outpaces Nearly All Other Family Expenses Nationwide

By cooper.joslin on October 22, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA)  today released its 12th annual The US and the High Cost of Child Care: A Review of Prices and Proposed Solutions for a Broken System which found that child care is unaffordable in all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia. For 30 years, CCAoA has been... Read more »

Child Care is a Community Issue

By cooper.joslin on October 22, 2018

Imagine a world where all children start their lives with high-quality education, where all parents can go to work knowing their child is safe, where the folks doing the important work of teaching our youngest all have access to benefits and fair wages. This is far from our reality today, but this is our vision.

All In the Family – Using Relatives for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on October 18, 2018

If a relative cares for your children while you work, you may have an ideal child care solution. Who can offer better care than a trusted family member? Like other parents, you may have selected relative care for one or more of the following reasons:

Todo Queda en la Familia – Cuidado de Ninos por Parientes

By cooper.joslin on October 18, 2018

Si un pariente cuida a sus hijos mientras trabaja, usted tal vez haya encontrado una solución ideal para su cuidado. ¿Quién puede ofrecer mejor cuidado que un miembro de confianza de la familia? Al igual que otros padres, usted puede haber seleccionado a un pariente por una o más de las razones siguientes:

Introducing: Member Meet Ups

By cooper.joslin on October 18, 2018

  Dear Diary, When I’m attending a conference for work, I’m usually so tired from attending sessions all day that I just grab a quick bite from the hotel’s restaurant and crash in the evening. Plus, I hate eating alone in public. It’s so boring! But today was different. Tonight, I was invited to meet... Read more »

5 Key Elements for CCR&Rs Providing Post-Disaster Support

By cooper.joslin on October 17, 2018

One year later, memories of the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey are grey and hazy, much like the lingering autumn skies that dropped trillions of gallons of water across Greater Houston. Before the flood waters receded, Collaborative for Children, the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the 13-county Greater Houston region, faced a critical... Read more »

Reflections from a Child Care and Early Learning Family Advocate

By cooper.joslin on October 11, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America believes that every family has an important perspective to be considered when making decisions in child care and early learning programs, state systems and nationwide. We recently sat down with Sosha, a vocal child care advocate, so she could share her journey into advocacy with you. 

Health Resource Spotlight: Emergency Preparedness Manual for Early Childhood Programs

By cooper.joslin on October 10, 2018

The Problem  By law, child care programs must have a disaster plan to keep children and staff safe in an emergency. However, developing one can be complicated. 

Nuevas Investigaciones Importantes para Padres

By cooper.joslin on October 4, 2018

Naturaleza o Crianza Usted ha oído hablar de naturaleza o crianza. Es el clásico debate sobre la manera en que los niños crecen y desarrollan sus personalidades. “Naturaleza” se refiere a la idea de que los niños nacen de la manera que son, y que lo que nosotros hacemos tiene muy poca influencia sobre lo... Read more »

Important Research for Parents

By cooper.joslin on October 4, 2018

Have you heard? It seems as if everybody is talking about “brain development” – the term being used to describe new research into the importance of a child’s earliest experiences. You may have read about it in a magazine, or seen it on the web. Maybe you’re hearing it for the first time right here.... Read more »

Federal Employees & Members of the Military Show Some Love to CCAoA with CFC #12300

By cooper.joslin on October 1, 2018

Do you believe all families should have access to affordable, high-quality child care? Are you a federal employee or member of the military? Then you still have time to select Child Care Aware® of America as your CFC charity of choice! Please visit this website for more information. Do you know any federal employees? Then let them... Read more »

Congress Approves Bill That Provides Strong Support for Child Care Programs

By cooper.joslin on September 27, 2018

Last night, the House of Representatives completed the FY 2019 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill (it also includes the Department of Defense’s budget) that, once again, honors the two-year congressional budget agreement by prioritizing funding for early childhood and child care programs.

Shape the Future in Child Care: Submit Your Nomination for the Board of Directors

By cooper.joslin on September 25, 2018

Right now, we are in a critical time to support access to a high-quality and affordable child care system for all families. You can contribute to this critical mission by nominating yourself or others to be considered for a board position with Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA). The call for Board of Directors nominations is open... Read more »

Statement from the Executive Director on the Administration’s Proposed Public Charge Rule

By cooper.joslin on September 24, 2018

“Science has shown that when children experience stressful or toxic environments, it is traumatic for future development, which is why it is critical to ensure that children and families who need access to basic services such as food, housing, health and child care can access it,” said Dr. Lynette M. Fraga, executive director of Child Care Aware®... Read more »

New Consumer Education Tools & Resources Created with the CCR&R in Mind

By cooper.joslin on September 21, 2018

  As a Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency, you play an important role in ensuring consumers receive quality information and are engaged around early care and education topics. That’s why Child Care Aware® of America created a new section of our website devoted to information and materials that can help you: Inform and... Read more »

Data Management for CCR&Rs

By cooper.joslin on September 19, 2018

As a Child Care Resource & Referral Agency (CCR&R), you are in the important (and messy) business of getting, using, and reporting data of all kinds. Data is critical to helping CCR&Rs serve providers and families with the most up-to-date information. Capturing this data over time also helps us understand trends in child care so... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Resources to Support Families Experiencing Homelessness

By cooper.joslin on September 18, 2018

The Problem  Every year, more than one million children under 6 years old in the U.S. experience homelessness. How can providers support these vulnerable children and their families? 

Success in Massachusetts: A Little Help on Advocacy Can Help Secure Big Funding

By cooper.joslin on September 17, 2018

Massachusetts was in search of more funding for its Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies after a massive cut to their budget line in 2010. Since then, CCR&Rs in the state have had to continue to do their critical work of managing cases, providing referrals and subsidies and more, despite a 16% increase in... Read more »

Child Abuse and Neglect: Prevention and Response

By cooper.joslin on September 13, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America stands alongside families, providers, and the public in our shared commitment to the safety and well-being of children in child care. In 2016, an estimated 676,000[1] children in the United States were victims of neglect or abuse. A small fraction of that total – 2,104 substantiated cases – involved a... Read more »

CCR&Rs and Eligibility Workers

By cooper.joslin on September 13, 2018

  Child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies are sometimes well-kept secrets in the world just peripheral to child care. We recently found this to be true when my colleagues, Courtnie Wheeless, Florida Office of Early Learning, Marlana Kelly and Lei Kendale, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAOA) External Affairs, and I accepted an invitation... Read more »

Brain-Building Partnership: Apply for this Vroom Opportunity

By cooper.joslin on September 12, 2018

In August, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) announced the renewal of our partnership with the Bezos Family Foundation on supporting early care and education professionals as brain builders through Vroom. Now we are accepting applications from State and local CCR&R agencies interested in a nine-month family engagement project through the Vroom Partnership. As a... Read more »

10 Ways CCR&Rs Can Engage the Community around Power to the Profession

By cooper.joslin on September 10, 2018

Now that you understand how important Power to the Profession is for the early childhood education and how you can best prepare your staff, it’s time to think about how you can engage the community in conversations about the initiative. But where should you start?

7 Steps for Successful Succession Planning

By cooper.joslin on September 6, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) was originally known as the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA).  It was founded in 1987 by a group of dedicated child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agency leaders that banded together to create a national membership agency to help them advance their collective mission. Child... Read more »

3 Ways to Improve Your  Facebook Page

By cooper.joslin on September 6, 2018

“We have a Facebook page but we don’t get a lot of engagement on it.” I’ve heard this sentiment time and time again while helping CCR&Rs and providers with their social media marketing strategy. Each time I hear that, I ask the following questions: How often do you post on it? Do you have a... Read more »

Congress Returns With a Full Agenda and Little Time to Act

By cooper.joslin on September 4, 2018

Both the House and Senate returned to Washington, D.C. and have a total of 11 scheduled legislative days before September 30, which is the end of the current fiscal year. In order to avoid a shutdown, Congress must either finish all 12 FY 2019 appropriations bills in the next few weeks, which hasn’t happened in... Read more »

Encouraging Child Care Providers to Include Emergency Planning on Their Back-to-School Checklists

By cooper.joslin on September 4, 2018

As child care providers prepare for young learners to return to their classrooms, it’s important that they add an emergency plan to their program. It’s unfortunate that we have to think about dangerous situations—natural disasters, fires, bomb threats and dangerous intruders—but it’s necessary to have a plan in place. Through effective preparation, CCR&Rs can help... Read more »

Using the State Fact Sheets for Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on August 30, 2018

One of the most exciting things about working for Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is the incredible emphasis put on research to drive policy “asks” and advocacy efforts. We spend a lot of time hashing out the best language to use to be sure that our messaging is relevant, appropriate, and research-informed. For the... Read more »

Public Investments in Early Care and Education Could Help End Poverty

By cooper.joslin on August 30, 2018

Achievement gaps start early for children in families with low incomes. Access to high-quality early care and education programs help young children develop social and emotional, language, and academic skills needed to succeed. In this blog, you will hear from Ashley, a family advocate who uses her personal experience to make the case for why... Read more »

Preparing for Wildfires: The Reality of Today

By cooper.joslin on August 28, 2018

With wildfires spreading across the West, many cities and states are being impacted both directly by the fires and by the resulting air pollution from the smoke. This week, Seattle topped the list of worst air pollution in the world, and Washington state and Oregon had 4 of the top 5 worst air pollution days... Read more »

What Is Leadership Institute?

By cooper.joslin on August 27, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America’s 2018 Leadership Institute is just a little over a month away and I cannot wait! This year’s Institute is being held in beautiful Denver, Colorado, at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel from Sunday, September 30th to Wednesday, October 3rd. As a child care resource and referral (CCR&R) professional working in... Read more »

Mobile Texting Success Stories: Kansas and Florida

By cooper.joslin on August 24, 2018

In a recent post, we talked about the benefits of mobile texting for CCR&Rs and child care providers. In this post, we’ll look at two case studies of successful mobile texting in action.

6 Ways to Get Your Staff Involved with Power to the Profession

By cooper.joslin on August 22, 2018

Power to the Profession is a big deal for CCR&R agencies. By establishing a unifying framework for the early childhood profession—including career pathways, qualifications, and compensation—this national collaboration holds the potential to impact how CCR&R agencies conduct business in the future. It’s important to be prepared, but where do you even start? We’ve compiled a... Read more »

How CCR&Rs and Child Care Programs Can Effectively Communicate Using Mobile Texting

By cooper.joslin on August 15, 2018

In the beginning of the century, just 62 percent of Americans owned a cell phone. Fast forward to today and 95 percent own a cellphone and almost every owner is texting. Cell phone ownership and usage is nearly universal amongst all demographic groups with even those ages 65 and older beginning to find use in... Read more »

Resource and Referral’s Role in Supporting Breastfeeding

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2018

Some families where breast milk is milk of choice don’t always rely on the mother to handle feeding. Sometimes, the mom pumps milk so that co-parents or other family members participate in the feeding process—and sometimes provide breast milk to child care providers to feed infants too.  

Child Care Aware® of America Report Shows Snapshot of Child Care Landscape Nationally and At State Level

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2018

Washington, DC – Today, Child Care Aware® of America released its 2018 Checking In: A Snapshot of the Child Care Landscape, a report that summarizes the supply and demand for child care in each state, the average cost of licensed and accredited child care, and the services provided by Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)... Read more »

The 2018 State Fact Sheets Shows How the Current Landscape is Affecting Working Families

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2018

The evidence is clear – children who participate in high-quality programs during their early years demonstrate lasting effects in IQ, boosted academic and economic achievement, and lower incidences of childhood obesity and chronic illness. With nearly 15 million children under 6 who may need child care each day, the stakes have never been higher for... Read more »

Top 10 Things CCR&Rs Need to Know about Power to the Profession

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2018

If you’re like most CCR&R professionals out there, you’ve likely heard about the Power to the Profession initiative, but you might not know much about it. Maybe you know the initiative was started to transform the early childhood field but aren’t sure what that really means or entails. Maybe you’re already excited about Power to... Read more »

Using Paid Advertising to Market Your CCR&R Agency

By cooper.joslin on August 6, 2018

If you’re like most child care resource and referral agencies, you want to get the word out about your agency so that providers, families, and community partners know about your agency and the services you provide, but you have just a small advertising budget to work with. Paid online advertising is a great place to... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Furthers Partnership with the Bezos Family Foundation to Boost Family Engagement

By cooper.joslin on August 2, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) and the Bezos Family Foundation announce their continued partnership and renewed focus on supporting early care and education professionals as brain builders through Vroom.Vroom is a global initiative that empowers parents and caregivers, including early care and education professionals, to boost children’s early learning and development... Read more »

VIDEO: Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies Are Here For You

By cooper.joslin on July 30, 2018

The end of summer is a busy time for families seeking child care. This video describes what families and child care resource and referral (CCR&R) professionals, from around the nation, have to say about child care assistance available in your community.

Resource and Referral’s Role in Supporting Breastfeeding

By cooper.joslin on July 18, 2018

Some families where breast milk is milk of choice don’t always rely on the mother to handle feeding. Sometimes, the mom pumps milk so that co-parents or other family members participate in the feeding process—and sometimes provide breast milk to child care providers to feed infants too.  

Senate Holds Hearing on Paid Family Leave for Working Families

By cooper.joslin on July 12, 2018

On July 11, the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Social Security, Pensions and Family Policy hosted a hearing examining the importance of paid family leave. Subcommittee Chairman, Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and Ranking Member Sherrod Brown (D-OH) sponsored the hearing and witnesses included Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), along with Dr. Andrew Biggs from... Read more »

Why do parents spend so much on child care, yet early childhood educators earn so little?

By cooper.joslin on July 11, 2018

For more than 10 years, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) has reported on the unaffordability of child care for parents in states across the country. We’ve been expanding that reporting by diving deeper into county-level costs and exploring national, state-and community-level financing solutions to provide working families with some relief. Even as we’ve kept... Read more »

Senate Appropriations Committee Approves FY 2019, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill

By cooper.joslin on June 28, 2018

Earlier today, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a FY 2019 spending package by a 30-1 vote that proposes funding levels for child care and other early childhood programs for next year. The bill includes $5.3 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), which is the same level the House Appropriations Committee proposed... Read more »

Prevent to Protect: The Most Common Unheard of Viral Cause of Birth Defect

By cooper.joslin on June 28, 2018

It’s National Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Awareness Month, however, most women have never heard of CMV (less than 9 percent).

Power to the Profession Webinar: Innovative Strategies to Engage Staff and Providers

By cooper.joslin on June 25, 2018

What can Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&Rs) agencies do and how can they most effectively share information about Power to the Profession with the field? Join us for a webinar, “What can your CCR&R do to prepare for the evolution of the ECE profession?,” on July 10 from 2:30-3:30 pm EST as we talk... Read more »

Kawasaki Disease: What All Families and Providers Should Know

By cooper.joslin on June 21, 2018

  On October 2, 2016, my son Myles, then 4 months old, had a fever. His older sister had just been sick, so my husband and I thought Myles had caught a bug from her. Poor little guy. I guess that’s how it goes when you have multiple kids with exposure to a lot of... Read more »

Statement: The Effects of Separation Policy are Devastating and Potentially Life-long

By cooper.joslin on June 19, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Dr. Lynette M. Fraga, executive director of Child Care Aware® of America, issued the following statement on the federal policy of separating children from their families when crossing the southern border into the United States:

The Child Care and Development Fund: What CCR&Rs Should Know

By cooper.joslin on June 19, 2018

House Subcommittee Approves Appropriations Bill With Proposed Funding for ECE Programs

By cooper.joslin on June 15, 2018

The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education approved its FY 2019 appropriations bill that includes proposed funding levels for child care and other early childhood programs. The Subcommittee includes $5.2 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), which is the same level as FY 2018.  While this... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Interactive Learning Modules for Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs)

By cooper.joslin on June 14, 2018

The Problem  CCHCs are health professionals who also are knowledgeable about child health, child development and health and safety in child care. But their training may not have equipped them with some skills (e.g., communicating effectively with programs) that are essential to their work.  

Final Child Care and Development Fund Plan Preprint PUBLISH for FY 2019

By cooper.joslin on June 11, 2018

Raising a Reader

By cooper.joslin on June 1, 2018

Nurturing a Love for Reading Nurturing a love for reading and writing is a role that parents can play in their children’s lives. Success in school and later careers depends on having good reading and writing skills. These days we constantly hear about the importance of literacy. What does literacy mean? It’s the ability to... Read more »

When It Comes To Child Care In America, The Cavalry IS Coming

By cooper.joslin on June 1, 2018

  Moms-in-Film co-founder and Board President Christy Lamb

Announcing the Family and Community Engagement: Promising Practices Spotlight Series

By cooper.joslin on May 24, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America is rolling out a new informative series that illuminates exemplary family and community engagement practices. The Family and Community Engagement: Promising Practices Spotlight Series highlights and celebrates innovative, high-quality family and community engagement programs occurring in a range of early childhood settings. We hope this series will not only introduce... Read more »

2018 Hurricane Season: Let’s Get Ready

By cooper.joslin on May 23, 2018

The 2018 hurricane season is almost upon us and Child Care Aware® of America wants to ensure that you and those for which you care are ready!

Safety and Injury Prevention Curriculum

By cooper.joslin on May 22, 2018

The Problem The number one cause of death and disability for children in the U.S. is from injuries. Most injuries are preventable AND predictable.

Mapping the Gaps in Infant & Toddler Care Supply and Demand

By cooper.joslin on May 16, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America is excited to release four new story maps examining gaps in child care supply and demand  for infants and toddlers. Child care slots for children age birth to three can be both difficult to find and unaffordable for many  families. Our Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) partners in Alaska,... Read more »

VIDEO: The Importance of Finding a Child Care Center You Trust

By cooper.joslin on May 11, 2018

Sosha unfortunately had to bounce around from child care to child care due to lack of affordability. But in 2012 – she found the child care center of her dreams!

Alabama Family Advocates Make Lasting First Impression With Memorable Child Care Story

By cooper.joslin on May 9, 2018

  Andy and Tametria Dantzler with Alabama Senator Doug Jones. (Photo courtesy of the Dantzlers.)

Symposium 2018: Here’s What You May Have Missed

By cooper.joslin on May 8, 2018

We were absolutely thrilled to have almost 400 attendees from 41 states join us for this year’s Child Care Aware® of America 2018 Symposium April 17-20 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. We celebrated 30 years of passion and persistence and ignited possibilities! This biennial event brought child care experts, Child Care Resource and... Read more »

Addressing Trauma through Quality Early Learning Experiences

By cooper.joslin on May 7, 2018

Early childhood professionals, researchers and policymakers are talking about childhood trauma. Traumatic events that children experience include abuse or neglect, divorce, or the incarceration of a parent. These experiences, known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), are common, often occur together and can impact long-term health outcomes such as heart disease, diabetes and even cancer.

Child Care Aware® of America Releases Statement on SNAP

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Dr. Lynette M. Fraga, executive director of Child Care Aware® of America, issued the following statement on changes the House Agriculture Committee has approved for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in the current version of the House Farm Bill (H.R. 2):

Power to the Profession: Provide Feedback and Shape Your Future

By cooper.joslin on April 16, 2018

Child care resource and referral (CCR&Rs) agencies, you have the opportunity to help shape the future of the early care and education workforce!

National Infant Immunization Week is Only A Week Away

By cooper.joslin on April 16, 2018

From April 21 – 28, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with partners, community leaders, healthcare professionals and stakeholders, will observe National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW). This annual observance highlights the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and celebrates the achievements of immunization programs and their partners in promoting healthy communities.

The Latest from the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

By cooper.joslin on April 16, 2018

Help CACFP Celebrate a Milestone  The program turns 50 on May 8, 2018. Nemours Children’s Health System and the National Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Forum will be creating a billboard-sized birthday card on Capitol Hill. The card will be a mosaic of thousands of images from community programs serving CACFP meals and snacks. (Sorry, the... Read more »

Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Resources

By cooper.joslin on April 13, 2018

The Problem  Infant and early childhood mental health consultation (IECMHC) is an evidence-based intervention for supporting young children’s social-emotional development. It teams a mental health professional with early care and education professionals to improve children’s social, emotional and behavioral health. However, many child care providers may not have access to or may not know how to get the most out of a mental... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Offering full Vroom Track at Symposium 2018

By cooper.joslin on April 2, 2018

Vroom, in partnership with Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), continues to provide strong support and enrichment to the CCR&R community. CCAoA is excited to offer a full Vroom Track at Symposium 2018 this coming April.

National Healthy Schools Day is April 3, 2018

By cooper.joslin on March 30, 2018

Child Care Aware® of America is joining the Healthy Schools Network and dozens of partners around the country to celebrate National Healthy Schools Day on April 3rd, 2018. For the past 16 years, National Healthy Schools Day has brought attention to the ways that school and child care environments can affect children’s health. This year... Read more »

Poison Prevention in Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 23, 2018

Children grow rapidly, and their developmental milestones include significant emotional, social, intellectual and physical changes. Naturally, kids are inquisitive and learn by exploring—placing items in their mouths, opening containers and cabinets, and imitating other actions they see in the home or in child care. It is no surprise, then, that children ages six and under... Read more »

FY2018 Appropriations Bill Passed in Senate

By cooper.joslin on March 23, 2018

At Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), we are thrilled that the FY2018 appropriations bill has passed in the Senate, which includes an increase of $2.37 billion in the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). This funding is critical in supporting systems professionals, providers, children and families across the nation.

Report: Arsenic in Nine Brands of Infant Cereal

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2018

A recent report from Healthy Babies Bright Futures found that infant rice cereal has six times more arsenic than other types of infant cereal. That finding builds on the evidence from previous studies, including one from Consumer Reports.

Health Resource Spotlight: Tell Me a Story

By cooper.joslin on March 19, 2018

The Problem:  One of the many responsibilities child care providers juggle is helping children develop their social-emotional skills. But providers need tools to guide their efforts.  One Solution: Both parents and early care and education professionals can use the Tell Me a Story series to support children’s healthy social-emotional development. It includes guides to six children’s books... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: The Latest from the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

By cooper.joslin on March 16, 2018

Explore 40 recipes inspired by the cuisines of Central and South America, Africa, North America, Europe, and Asia and the Pacific Islands. Easy-to-prepare and kid-tested, the recipes introduce a few new spices or ingredients without being overwhelming. Each includes information on how the ingredients in the recipe would be credited in the Child and Adult... Read more »

In Celebration and Memoriam of Dr. T Berry Brazelton, the Good Fight Must Continue

By cooper.joslin on March 15, 2018

Dr. T. Berry Brazelton was a tireless and passionate pediatrician and advocate for babies, toddlers and their families. There are many across the country and over the years that have been impacted by and are now celebrating his life and contributions to the early childhood field. In April of 2003, on my daughter’s due date,... Read more »

New Proposal to Transform Financing of Early Childhood Care

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America endorses a recent report calling for an increased federal role in financing, quality assessment and professional development in early childhood education. The report, “Transforming the Financing of Early Care and Education,” released by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine on Feb. 22, calls for making... Read more »

I Can’t Have Another Child Because of the Cost of Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 8, 2018

   I have a few more months until I can say I have officially finished school. I will have a newly minted master’s degree in social work with a lot of opportunity ahead of me (at least that’s what I keep telling myself). Unfortunately, I feel I am being a bit too optimistic because, let’s... Read more »

National Children’s Dental Health Month is Over, But…

By cooper.joslin on March 6, 2018

Each February, the American Dental Association sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Here are some tips for use year-round.

Bezos Family to Receive Children’s Champion Award

By cooper.joslin on February 28, 2018

As Albert Einstein said, “Problems cannot be solved by the same level of thinking that created them.” In that spirit, Child Care Aware® of America has found an ideal partner in Jackie and Mike Bezos, whose efforts to invest in science and create evidence-based learning opportunities are transforming the field of early learning. To honor... Read more »

Transforming the Financing of Early Care and Education

By cooper.joslin on February 26, 2018

Last week, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released their highly anticipated report Transforming the Financing of Early Care and Education. The report explores how to finance quality early care and education (ECE) systems so that it is accessible to all families in all settings.

Health Resource Spotlight: New Translations of Health Tips for Families

By cooper.joslin on February 20, 2018

The Problem: Many child care resources are available only in English. They are not accessible to the one in five U.S. families who speak a language other than English in their homes. One Solution: The Health Tips for Families Series —a collection of fact sheets for families—is now available in nine languages: English, Spanish, Arabic,... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: I Like My Teeth

By cooper.joslin on February 20, 2018

The Problem: Children with poor oral health can experience a range of problems: difficulty concentrating due to tooth pain; health issues, such as infections; and impaired growth and development. One Solution: Four colorful and informative posters on oral health from the National Center on Early Childhood Health and Wellness (NCECHW).

Making Strides Toward Healthier Child Care

By cooper.joslin on February 15, 2018

Ever since First Lady Michelle Obama launched her Let’s Move! campaign in 2010, childhood obesity prevention has gained a lot of attention. Experts agree that obesity prevention needs to start early, and child care programs are a great place for children to build the eating and active play habits that will help them grow up... Read more »

The Lifetime Influence Child Care Providers Have on Children and Families

By cooper.joslin on February 9, 2018

Like many, I started providing child care as a means of supplementing family income while being able to stay home with my own children. I had previous experience in my teenage years as a steady date-night sitter and as a substitute at a center. I intended to be a provider for a few years.

Submit Your Proposal to Provide Technical Assistance in Building Healthy Communities

By cooper.joslin on February 8, 2018

With the support of Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is pleased to offer technical assistance (TA) to states on projects that support development or maintenance of quality child care settings that promote child health.

Child Care Costs Outpace College Tuition: Action Is Needed

By cooper.joslin on February 8, 2018

  2018 Policy Agenda Recommendations Would Improve Financial Stability for Millions of Americans if Enacted The Child Care for Working Families Act is Top Priority WASHINGTON, Feb. 7, 2018 – With millions of American families struggling to afford and access quality child care, and early childhood education costs outpacing college tuition, Child Care Aware® of America today urged... Read more »

2018-2019 Child Care Policy Platform Highlights Critical Role of CCR&Rs

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2018

While it is difficult to find agreement on many of our nation’s priorities, one thing is for sure – There is unprecedented agreement that child care is a critical issue in the United States today. In fact, a recent poll found that 97 percent of Democrats, 89 percent of Independents, and 87 percent of Republicans,... Read more »

Investing in Early Childhood Pays Off

By cooper.joslin on January 30, 2018

Would you take this deal? Buy one year of college, get three more for no additional cost. A no-brainer, right? That’s similar to what happens when society invests in early childhood programs such as high quality child care, Head Start, Early Head Start, and home visiting programs. For every dollar spent, between two and four... Read more »

January 2018 Child Care Provider of the Month — Learn ‘n Play Preschool

By cooper.joslin on January 30, 2018

Finding Flexible Child Care for Parents with Demanding Schedules

By cooper.joslin on January 25, 2018

Kathy, a married mother of three, struggled with finding a child care facility that could accept and accommodate her children’s unique needs, as well as her and her husband’s demanding work schedules. With the help of child care, she and her husband were no longer forced to alternate days off and were able to return... Read more »

Eco-Healthy Child Care’s E-Learning Course

By cooper.joslin on January 24, 2018

Have you ever heard that indoor air is often way more polluted than the outdoor air, and wondered whether that was actually true? It is, because in enclosed spaces the chemicals used in certain paints, varnishes, cleaners—and other pollutants including dirt, dust, dander—keep recirculating. So imagine what children in child care settings may be exposed... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Awarded One-Year-Grant From Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

By cooper.joslin on January 22, 2018

Funding will power development of “Child Care Data Center” to streamline access, affordability and quality for families and providers through clear data WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), with support from a grant by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), will develop and test a web portal to drive improvements in the... Read more »

Top 5 Victories in 2017 Paving the Way for A Successful 2018

By cooper.joslin on January 20, 2018

Many families struggle to find child care that meets their needs and high-quality programs are difficult to find and typically have long waiting lists. We believe that no child or family should have to choose between affordability and quality. So we continue our work in convening thought-leaders, advocating on Capitol Hill, and keeping our communities... Read more »

Flu Season is Here: Take Precautions to Keep You and Your Loved Ones Healthy

By cooper.joslin on January 18, 2018

According to the CDC, getting an annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.

Health Resource Spotlight: Brrr…

By cooper.joslin on January 16, 2018

The Problem: Much of the country has been struck this season by record low temperatures and never-before-seen snowfalls. How do we keep young children safe and warm through it all?

7 Reasons You Shouldn’t Miss This Year’s Symposium and Annual Meeting

By cooper.joslin on January 16, 2018

Join us in the nation’s capital for CCAoA’s 2018 Symposium and Annual Meeting. It is being held at the renowned Marriott Marquis—one great reason to attend. And while we believe that there are countless other reasons why you should participate, we’ve narrowed it to the “Seven Best”:

Child Care Aware® of America Statement on New Medicaid Work Requirement Guidance

By cooper.joslin on January 16, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC — On the heels of the Trump Administration’s decision to allow states to impose work requirements on Medicaid recipients, many of whom are children, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), executive director Dr. Lynette M. Fraga released the following statement:

How I Navigated Finding Child Care, What I Learned

By cooper.joslin on January 11, 2018

Military Child Care vs. Civilian Child Care “We are moving to Germany,” my husband told me as he got his first official orders for the U.S. Army. I was so excited to be moving overseas I didn’t even think ahead to the fact that I may not be able to work. I was pregnant at... Read more »

Exceptional Family Member Program Respite Care Available For Military Families

By cooper.joslin on January 3, 2018

Raising a child with disabilities can be rewarding in unexpected ways. There’s the pride of seeing your child master a new skill, often after a struggle that typically developing children never know. Naturally, there are challenges involved in caring for a child with special needs, especially if the child’s physical or developmental disability is severe.... Read more »

The Top 5 Things CCR&Rs Should Do After a Disaster

By cooper.joslin on December 29, 2017

  As the end of the year nears, CCAoA’s Emergency Preparedness Team has been reflecting on the disasters that struck in 2017. Top-of-mind, of course, are the hurricanes—Harvey, Irma, and Maria. Our team worked directly with CCR&Rs affected by the storms and the providers they serve. This is the last of three blogs on lessons... Read more »

Could Your Cell Phone Really Save Your Life?

By cooper.joslin on December 28, 2017

Did you know the new iOS 11 feature on your iPhone allows you to call for Emergency SOS 911 help without using the keypad, even when your phone is locked? The great thing about this feature is that you can access emergency services silently and quickly.  Having a cell phone present during an emergency or... Read more »

Preparing Children for Healthy Lives

By cooper.joslin on December 27, 2017

Child care prepares our littlest for the future, by helping them learn and grow. A lot of time and energy is spent making sure that children are healthy right now, today in child care—we create safe environments, we do health checks, and our licensing and monitoring visits are designed to make sure that there are no... Read more »

Help Can Come from an Unexpected Source

By cooper.joslin on December 21, 2017

Daniela Salinas’ access to quality child care has been limited by high costs.  Like many states around the nation the cost of child care in her home state is more expensive than college tuition.  Watch as Daniela shares how voucher and subsidy programs help families make child care more affordable and enabled her to finish... Read more »

Congress Passes Tax Reform Legislation that Could Harm Millions of Children and Families

By cooper.joslin on December 20, 2017

Earlier today, the House of Representatives approved the Senate-passed tax reform legislation which will overhaul the tax code for the first time since the mid-1980s. President Trump is expected to sign this bill into law soon.

Holiday Toy Safety: Making Smart Choices While Allowing Children to Have Fun

By cooper.joslin on December 20, 2017

The holiday season often brings an abundance of excitement for young children who anticipate receiving new toys and games. The gift givers’ tasks aren’t accomplished by simply finding and buying the wish list items—attention also needs to also be paid on ensuring that gifts are age appropriate and pose no safety hazards.

Health Resource Spotlight: Tips for Keeping Children Safe – A Developmental Guide

By cooper.joslin on December 19, 2017

The Problem: We want young children to explore their environments, so they can acquire new skills and knowledge. Unfortunately, though, in the process of mastering skills such as eating solid foods or climbing, they can get injured.

Health Resource Spotlight: New Resources, Guidance on Criminal Background Checks

By cooper.joslin on December 18, 2017

The Problem: States and territories must implement Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) requirements on criminal background checks, but those requirements are complicated and can be difficult to understand.

Celebrating Child Care and Making Connections at the 2017 ZERO TO THREE Conference

By cooper.joslin on December 18, 2017

  Child Care Aware® of America was proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the recent 2017 ZERO TO THREE conference. The event brought over 3,000 early childhood professionals to San Diego, CA November 29-December 1 for three days of learning, networking, and socializing.

Snow Safety: Five Steps to be Prepared

By cooper.joslin on December 18, 2017

With winter right around the corner and temperatures dropping fast, this is the perfect time to prepare for a possible winter emergency. Many people love the idea of a few inches of fluffy snow falling from the sky, but all too quickly, that few inches can morph into the winter storm of the year. Fortunately,... Read more »

Site Diagrams Made Easy – Do You Have One for Your Child Care Facility?

By cooper.joslin on December 15, 2017

An alarm rings…lights flash…you regularly practice fire drills, so you know this is the fire alarm. You need to evacuate, but what do you take with you?  Where is the closest exit?  What happens if the closest exit is blocked?  How can you evacuate yourself and your roomful of toddlers quickly and easily?

The Top 5 Things CCR&Rs Should Do During a Disaster

By cooper.joslin on December 14, 2017

As the end of the year nears, CCAoA’s Emergency Preparedness Team has been reflecting on the disasters that struck in 2017. Top-of-mind, of course, are the hurricanes—Harvey, Irma, and Maria. Our team worked directly with CCR&Rs affected by the storms and the providers they serve. This is the second of three blogs on lessons learned... Read more »

National Child Nutrition Conference — Scholarships Available

By cooper.joslin on December 13, 2017

The 32nd annual National Child Nutrition Conference is scheduled for April 19-21, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. Hosted by the National CACFP Sponsors Association, this conference brings together professionals in the child nutrition community for three days of learning and networking. Over 1,000 participants from nutrition, nonprofit, education, and child care organizations in all 50... Read more »

Child Care is Unaffordable Across the Nation

By cooper.joslin on December 12, 2017

That’s the bottom line from CCAoA’s just-PUBLISH report on Parents and the High Cost of Child Care: 2017. Our signature annual report is now in its eleventh year and this year, as in previous years, child care represents one of the most significant expenses in parents’ budgets. In all regions of the country, families average... Read more »

Report Shows Child Care Outpaces Nearly All Other Family Expenses Nationwide

By cooper.joslin on December 12, 2017

WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America today released its annual Parents and the High Cost of Child Care: 2017 report, which found that child care is unaffordable in all 50 states. Child Care Aware® of America, the nation’s leading advocate for quality, affordable child care, found that child care fees for two children in... Read more »

The Role Families Play in Identifying Child Care Challenges and Identifying Solutions

By cooper.joslin on December 7, 2017

Children and their families are the heart of early care and education. We know that when child care providers and early educators work in close concert with families. Young children gain a stronger foundation for learning and development, Overall family well-being is enhanced, and The early care workforce experiences greater job satisfaction, and frequent turnover... Read more »

How Vroom Can Help Providers and Parents Have Fun While Brain Building

By cooper.joslin on December 6, 2017

Amy Ornelas, a child care provider and grandparent and one of our Vroom Week winners, was thrilled to celebrate with us. She has been an avid user of the Vroom App, and wanted to share her experience for parents, grandparents and providers and how it has helped her. Vroom Week, which was held October 16-20,... Read more »

Partnering to Send Care Packages to Puerto Ricans

By cooper.joslin on December 4, 2017

On November 15, employees from Child Care Aware® of America, Good360, and Charles River Associates worked together to assemble disaster relief kits for Niño’s de Nueva Esperanza child care center in Sabana Seca, Puerto Rico. Volunteers assembled 150 kits that will be sent alongside thousands of other donations garnered by Good360 to families struggling to... Read more »

Infographic: Handwashing is Key to Flu Prevention

By cooper.joslin on December 1, 2017

Health services across the world are preparing for the worst flu season in history amid fears that the vaccines used to stop the influenza virus will not be as effective this year. Fortunately, there is a simple way to prevent the spread of disease and infection to keep you and the people around you safe... Read more »

Video: How Finding the Perfect Child Care Provider Is Possible

By cooper.joslin on November 30, 2017

On October 18, I had the privilege and honor of sharing my personal experience in searching for the “perfect” child care setting for my two beautiful, smart, amazing, super energized daughters. Alongside four other incredible and inspiring Kansas City mothers, we had the opportunity to participate in a family voices panel to express our successes... Read more »

The Top 5 Things CCR&Rs Should Do Before a Disaster

By cooper.joslin on November 29, 2017

As the end of the year nears, CCAoA’s Emergency Preparedness Team has been reflecting on the disasters that struck in 2017. Top-of-mind, of course, are the hurricanes—Harvey, Irma, and Maria. Our team worked directly with CCR&Rs affected by the storms and the providers they serve. This is the first of three blogs on lessons learned... Read more »

Voices for Healthy Kids Calls for Early Care and Education Campaign Proposals

By cooper.joslin on November 21, 2017

Every child deserves the chance to eat healthy food and play every day. Because 60 percent of children under age six spend much of their time in care outside of their homes, early care and education settings are important places for children to build healthy habits.

Health Resource Spotlight: Reducing the Risk of SIDS in Child Care Settings

By cooper.joslin on November 20, 2017

The Problem: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) refers to the death of an infant between one and 12 months old which cannot be explained. It is the most common cause of death for infants and usually occurs when a baby is sleeping. Roughly 12 percent of SIDS deaths occur while infants are in the care... Read more »

How a Local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency Can Strengthen Your Family

By cooper.joslin on November 20, 2017

Child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies are a critical link between families of young children, communities, and local services and supports. Alma’s story illuminates how her local CCR&R’s lending library and caregiver education program strengthens families and encourages early learning and development.  

Health Resource Spotlight: Your Program’s Mealtime Practices—a Quick Self-Assessment

By cooper.joslin on November 17, 2017

The Problem: Other healthy meal self-assessment tools exist, but they focus on detailed best practices related to nutrition and healthy eating environments. They can be complicated and time-consuming.

VIDEO: The Importance of a Locating a Nurturing Child Care Facility

By cooper.joslin on November 16, 2017

Amber and Travis, married with two kids, work corporate jobs with long hours and worry about the type of influence that child care providers can have on their children. With the help of quality child care, they have the satisfaction of knowing their children are in a nurturing and compassionate environment.

Location, Location, Location! The Safe Siting of Child Care Facilities

By cooper.joslin on November 15, 2017

Location is everything nowadays. Where we live and work can determine the types of professional opportunities we have, as well as how we spend our free time. Many people may not realize that the locations where we spend a lot of time can directly affect our health. This is especially true for young children, whose... Read more »

House Tax Reform Package Approved in Committee

By cooper.joslin on November 9, 2017

Earlier today, the House Ways and Means Committee approved H.R. 1, the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017” on a party-line vote. While proposals to expand and enhance the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) were not included in the amended version, the proposal to eliminate Dependent Care Flexible Savings Accounts was overturned.... Read more »

Helping Young Children Recover from Traumatic Events – What the Science Tells Us

By cooper.joslin on November 8, 2017

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, as “stressful or traumatic events, including abuse and neglect.” New national data reveals that more than 46 percent of U.S. children—34 million under age 18—have experienced at least one traumatic event. More than 20 percent have experienced two or more.

Books and Resources to Help Children Before and After Emergency Drills

By cooper.joslin on November 7, 2017

In September 2016, Child Care Resource Center, the resource and referral agency serving the Tulsa Metropolitan Area, began implementing the Child Care Aware® of America’s Resiliency Hub pilot project. The goal of this project is to “increase the capacity of child care resource and referral agencies to serve as resilience hubs in their communities in... Read more »

House Unveils Tax Reform Package

By cooper.joslin on November 3, 2017

Yesterday, House Republican leadership introduced the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.”  This anticipated legislation is designed to reform the tax code for the first time since the 1980s, including changes to deductions and tax credits.

A Message from Our Executive Director Regarding the Child Care Tax Credit

By cooper.joslin on November 2, 2017

Child Care Aware® of America supports initiatives by Congress that would strengthen access to affordable child care for all. Unfortunately, the House-passed “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” (H.R. 1) fails to address the child care needs of working families by not providing sufficient tax relief and prioritizing expansion of critical tax credits, including the Child... Read more »

Relationships Matter – A Parent’s Perspective

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2017

Ever wonder what parents value in their relationships with child care providers? I wanted to know what it takes to meaningfully engage families so I turned to an expert! Meet Katey, a vivacious mom from Kansas. During a Q&A session, Katey provided a glimpse into what family engagement means to her family as she opened... Read more »

Not Just a Number: Finding the Right Fit for Her Child

By cooper.joslin on October 27, 2017

Cristina, a married mother of two, worries about her children becoming just another number in day care facilities. With the help of quality child care, her children are able to have access to a child care facility that emphasizes an emotionally supportive atmosphere, which has given Cristina the reassurance she needs.

Mapping the Child Care Gaps Across the Country

By cooper.joslin on October 26, 2017

Child Care Aware® of America is excited to announce the expansion of our child care deserts work with the release of the first two in a series of customized state-based interactive story maps, called Mapping the GapTM, that explores the gaps between child care supply and demand. CCAoA coined the term “child care desert” last fall... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America’s Story Maps Show States’ Child Care Gaps

By cooper.joslin on October 26, 2017

WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America today released the first in its series of data-rich story maps of state child care gaps. The first interactive maps showed that one in four children in Alaska’s working families and two in five children in Massachusetts’s working families lack access to licensed child care.

Senate Approves Budget Resolution

By cooper.joslin on October 20, 2017

The Senate just passed its FY 2018 budget resolution on a 51-49 vote. Before final passage, the Senate adopted an amendment from Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY), Chairman of the Budget Committee, that removes the House-passed Budget resolution’s instructions of $203 billion in mandatory spending cuts and replaces it with a deficit-neutral tax cut that could... Read more »

The Need for Disaster Response Plans for Children with Disabilities

By cooper.joslin on October 19, 2017

It seems that every time our nation experiences a major disaster, we learn more about the gaps in our emergency response system. Hurricanes Harvey and Irma were no exception, and one gap the storms revealed is in how we assist people with disabilities, including young children, in the event of an emergency.

Child Care Aware® of America Shares Brain-Building Tips During Vroom Week

By cooper.joslin on October 19, 2017

WASHINGTON, DC — Child Care Aware® of America is proud to sponsor Vroom Week from Oct. 16 to 20 to encourage families and caregivers to use simple prompts during daily moments to help build children’s brains.

Balancing Quality, Affordable Child Care with Provider Compensation

By cooper.joslin on October 18, 2017

By the time I had my third child, I knew exactly what it would take to call a child care perfect, and through the most fortunate of circumstances I found it. From nine months on my daughter was able to attend a small in-home child care setting where she was fed home cooked meals, a... Read more »

Why I Closed My In-Home Child Care

By cooper.joslin on October 18, 2017

“If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.” – Paul Coehlo, author of  The Alchemist       In the past four years since my son was born, I’ve said two difficult goodbyes to two careers that I loved. The struggle to make those decisions is not necessarily... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: A Water-Loving Otter Named Potter

By cooper.joslin on October 17, 2017

The Problem: The average 4- to 5-year-old child consumes 17 teaspoons of added sugar each day, or 65 pounds per year! The majority of that sugar comes from fruit drinks, high-fat desserts, soft drinks, and candy.

Helping Children and Families Experiencing Homelessness

By cooper.joslin on October 16, 2017

Over 9,000 children under six experience homelessness in Kansas and over one million nationwide. These children face an increased risk of experiencing developmental delays, physical health and social-emotional problems. Early childhood, specifically infancy, is the stage of life correlated with the highest risk of residing in a homeless shelter. High quality early childhood education, including... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Patricia Crosby

By cooper.joslin on October 16, 2017

Spotlight: Patricia Crosby, Owner, Patricia’s Day Care, Baltimore, MD    

Child Care Aware® of America Welcomes Four New Board Members

By cooper.joslin on October 13, 2017

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Child Care Aware® of America added four additions to our board of directors, of whom have expertise in military child care, nonprofit finance, bilingual education and child health, rounding out the organization’s newly expanded 17-member board.

Children’s Environmental Health Day

By cooper.joslin on October 12, 2017

Now more than ever, the need to protect the health of the most vulnerable among us is paramount. Children are our most valuable resource—they represent the very future of our nation. Yet over the past few decades children have faced increasing rates of chronic illness and developmental issues linked to environmental exposures and our changing... Read more »

September 2017 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on October 2, 2017

In September we celebrated National Preparedness Month, and with it the beginning of hurricane season. Our emergency preparedness team has been hard at work, connecting with parents and child care providers and proving support, tools, and resources to those impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. Child Care Aware® of America is also finalizing plans... Read more »

Congress To Miss Deadline on Extending Funding for Children’s Health Insurance and Home Visiting Programs

By cooper.joslin on September 29, 2017

With the authorization of funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) initiative expiring tomorrow, September 30, Congress will miss the deadline for extending these critical programs. Unfortunately, this lapse in funding could put many programs at-risk of closing and deny children access to health... Read more »

Riding Out the Storm

By cooper.joslin on September 25, 2017

We got hit by a tornado on a Sunday afternoon in late May. It was a holiday weekend, so most of our neighbors were out of town. I was out shopping in Forest Lake with my 4 year old, and my husband was at home.  We were experiencing a terrible storm in Forest Lake—it was... Read more »

Where in the World? Visualizing Data through Mapping

By cooper.joslin on September 18, 2017

    Where are child care programs located? How many children attend child care programs? Where can I find child care after 8 p.m.? Answering these questions is important as parents attempt to navigate the when, where, how and who of securing quality, affordable child care. Additionally, these questions become important after a disaster, particularly... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Margo Sipes

By cooper.joslin on September 18, 2017

Spotlight: Margo Sipes, Executive Director, Downtown Baltimore Child Care, Inc.

Health Resource Spotlight: Understanding Preschool Expulsion

By cooper.joslin on September 15, 2017

The Problem: In the past few months, much has been written about the too-common issue of preschool expulsion. Where can early childhood educators turn if they want to better understand the issue, its root causes, and how they can become part of the solution?

New Bill Would Make Affordable Child Care a Reality for All Families

By cooper.joslin on September 14, 2017

Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) introduced the “Child Care for Working Families Act of 2017.”  This legislation would greatly assist millions of families in gaining access to quality and affordable care.

August 2017 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on September 13, 2017

In August, we celebrated National Back to School Month with parents and providers through our Back to School Blog Series and daily back to school tips. With the end of August comes the beginning of hurricane season, and with it Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. Our emergency preparedness team has been hard at work, connecting... Read more »

Celebrating Grandparents and the Important Role They Play in Children’s Lives

By cooper.joslin on September 13, 2017

This past weekend was Grandparents Day. As I visited my parents with kids in tow, I realized how pivotal my parents have been in helping me raise my kids. My older two kids are tweens now, but when they were in child care my mom picked them up so my husband and I didn’t have... Read more »

Are Family Child Care Businesses Adequately Prepared for the Impact of a Disaster?

By cooper.joslin on September 11, 2017

On Memorial Day weekend of 2008, an EF3 tornado struck Hugo, Minnesota, a commuter town north of downtown St. Paul. Winds ranged from 136-165 mph, and the tornado’s path was six miles long and one-eighth mile wide. Since it was a holiday weekend, Christine, a family child care provider, was not caring for children at... Read more »

Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Bill to Protect Child Care Funding

By cooper.joslin on September 8, 2017

Yesterday, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved its FY 2018 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill. Unlike the House version, the Senate bill does not propose any spending cuts to programs that support child care including the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) and the Child Care Access Means Parents in School... Read more »

Vroom Resources Promote Healthy Brain Development

By cooper.joslin on September 7, 2017

Vroom materials have been a wonderful resource to integrate into our existing programs. When parents call requesting a child care search, we engage in conversation about child development and reaffirm to each parent the special role they play as being their child’s first and most important teacher.

The Next Chapter: Knocking on the Door to Kindergarten

By cooper.joslin on September 6, 2017

It hardly seems possible that we are in the midst of transitioning from preschool to kindergarten with our oldest child. How did that curious little infant we had five years ago move so quickly through toddlerhood and preschool?

National Preparedness Month – Take the Pledge!

By cooper.joslin on September 5, 2017

Ensuring you, your loved ones, and your little ones are prepared for any and all emergencies is of paramount importance. September is National Preparedness Month and CCAoA is encouraging parents, child care providers and child care resource and referral staff to take the Preparedness Pledge.

Family Voices Successful at Driving Federal Policy

By cooper.joslin on September 1, 2017

In the Spring of 2017, families from across the nation joined early care and education system professionals in Washington, D.C. These families traveled from all four corners of the United States including Washington, California, Florida, Maine and 18 other states in between. It was incredible to witness the diversity this group encompassed and their passion... Read more »

Child Care Disaster Response and Recovery Webinar Series

By cooper.joslin on August 30, 2017

The horrific damage caused by Hurricane Harvey on the Texas gulf coast reminds us of the profound impact that disasters have on children and adults, resulting in feelings of uncertainty for everyone. Young children do best when their lives have predictable caregivers, schedules, and settings. A disaster can throw all of those things off balance,... Read more »

From One Family to Another: Tips to Make the Transition Easier

By cooper.joslin on August 29, 2017

As a mom who has experience in transitioning children from child care to school, I’d like to share some tips with parents that are experiencing this for the first time this fall. My 9-year-old son has already made the transition from home child care to preschool, then to an elementary school to after school care.... Read more »

Policies that Support Breastfeeding in Child Care Facilities

By cooper.joslin on August 23, 2017

Helping children get off to a good, healthy start in life is one of the hallmarks of quality child care. It makes sense that quality child care programs would have policies in place that support good infant feeding practices, including breastfeeding.

The Present and Future of Child Care Assistance Programs in the United States

By cooper.joslin on August 21, 2017

  The extreme cost of child care in the United States is a highly debated and recognized economic concern. According to Child Care Aware® of America, child care is unaffordable in 49 states plus the District of Columbia. Though it seems like there aren’t currently many assistance programs in place, legislators have taken notice of... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Welcomes Yvette Sanchez Fuentes as Deputy Chief of Public Policy

By cooper.joslin on August 20, 2017

  WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yvette Sanchez Fuentes has joined Child Care Aware of America’s (CCAoA) policy team as the deputy chief of public policy. She brings with her extensive experience in providing services to young children from low-income families as well fighting for policies that strengthen communities through access to affordable child care. Sanchez Fuentes will... Read more »

Explaining and Safely Viewing the 2017 Solar Eclipse with our Smallest Learners

By cooper.joslin on August 19, 2017

A solar eclipse will take place on Monday, August 21 for the first time in the lower 48 U.S. states since 1979. During a solar eclipse, the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks all or part of the sun for up to three hours, from beginning to end. On Monday, the... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Celeste Joyner

By cooper.joslin on August 16, 2017

Spotlight: Celeste Joyner, Children’s College, Baltimore, MD The Problem: Two vegetarians, one pescatarian (who eats fish but no other meat), five omnivores. How does one provider feed such a diverse group of eaters?

What to Look for in a Quality Afterschool Program

By cooper.joslin on August 15, 2017

Backpack, paper, pencils, and homework folder: for many families, that’s the standard shopping list for back-to-school season. However, one key item is missing: your child’s afterschool program! Choosing the perfect program for your child can make the transition from early child care to aftercare seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! We want to... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Head Start’s Mental Health Tool

By cooper.joslin on August 14, 2017

The Problem: Sometimes an adult (parent/caregiver/early childhood educator) has a temperament that is vastly different from that of a young child. How do you bridge the gap and foster a loving, supportive relationship?

Payment Rates and Nutrition Labels: CACFP Implementation Resources

By cooper.joslin on August 11, 2017

Establishing healthy habits in early childhood is critical to the early care and education setting.  The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is an important part of shaping the meals and snacks that child care providers serve for children and staff of all ages.  New documents and training resources have recently been released by... Read more »

Include Emergency Planning on Your Back-to-School Checklist

By cooper.joslin on August 7, 2017

As you cross off important items on your family’s back-to-school checklist, don’t forget to be proactive in learning more about the emergency plan at your child’s school or child care program. All schools and before/afterschool child care programs should have an emergency plan in place to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergency... Read more »

July 2017 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on August 2, 2017

It’s hard to believe that July is coming to a close, and with it the imminent start to a new school year! August is National Back to School Month and we are celebrating with parents and providers through our Back to School Blog Series and daily back to school tips. July was another busy month,... Read more »

Health is Key to School Success

By cooper.joslin on August 1, 2017

Many parents use August to prepare for the school year and cross many tasks off their list—school supplies, nailing down schedules, new clothes, and converting the family mindset from summer vacation to the school routine. But, there is one more task. And you should add it to the top of your list, because it affects... Read more »

Sick, Absent, or Forgotten? How a Change in Routine Can Become Deadly in Minutes

By cooper.joslin on July 31, 2017

Have you ever had a child in your child care program not arrive by her usual arrival time and simply rationalized that the child must be sick or on vacation today? My mission is to show you how this assumption can have lethal consequences for dozens of young children annually. How? Each year since 1998, an... Read more »

Bi-Partisan Child Care Program That Supports Parents in College Introduced

By cooper.joslin on July 28, 2017

 Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Representatives Katharine Clark (D-MA) and Don Young (R-AK) just introduced the “Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) Improvement Act of 2017.” CCAMPIS is the only federal program that supports child care services for low-income parents in college, and services are provided year-round. According to numerous studies, the number... Read more »

Child Care Affordability: Will the New Policy Work? Or Is There Still Progress to be Made?

By cooper.joslin on July 26, 2017

With a variety of new policies on the verge of implementation, one can’t help but wonder…What’s next for my family and me?

House Appropriations Committee Proposes Funding Increase for CCDBG

By cooper.joslin on July 20, 2017

Yesterday, the House Appropriations Committee approved the FY 2018 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations Bill, and it included a proposed $4 million increase for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), roughly $2.86 billion for FY 2018. In addition, Head Start would receive $9.275 billion, a increase of $22 million from this... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on JeAnne Faris

By cooper.joslin on July 19, 2017

Spotlight JeAnne Faris, Trinity Lutheran Child Care Center, Kalispell, Montana

Health Resource Spotlight: Child Care State Licensing Database

By cooper.joslin on July 18, 2017

The Problem States need a way to measure whether their current child care licensing standards do or do not meet the Caring for Our Children Basics (CFOC Basics) guidelines. Those are the minimum health and safety standards that child care programs should meet.

Senate Unveils Draft Health Care Repeal Legislation Update

By cooper.joslin on July 13, 2017

Earlier today, the Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell (R-KY), released a third version of the “Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017 (BCRA),” that would change or eliminate major provisions of the federal health care law.

Child Care Aware® of America Releases 2017 State Fact Sheets

By cooper.joslin on July 13, 2017

Help for families struggling to pay for quality child care, such as the federal Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), is, pivotal to supporting quality child care in the nation. Strategically, states are already investing CCDBG funds in raising the quality of child care programs, as well as in efforts to improve affordability of... Read more »

Sharing Vroom with the Child Care Community

By cooper.joslin on July 11, 2017

Vroom has been an exciting addition to the work we do at the Capital District Child Care Council.  Children develop cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically through play. By bringing VROOM to the Capital District area of Albany, New York, we were able to share the brain building benefits of play with the community we serve.... Read more »

Editing Exchange: An Editor’s First Year Account of Understanding Child Care

By cooper.joslin on July 10, 2017

One year ago, I stepped into my new role as Editor-in-Chief of Exchange, a magazine for early childhood leaders. I was to fill the biggest shoes imaginable—those of a founding editor who had helmed the magazine since its inception 38 years ago. Although I’m a mother of two young boys, I was new(ish) to the... Read more »

June 2017 Child Care Provider of the Month – Hampton University Child Development Center

By cooper.joslin on July 7, 2017

Arlington, VA – Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), National Head Start Association (NHSA), National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA), National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), Teachstone, and the Afterschool Alliance would like to congratulate Joy Phelps and the staff at the Hampton University Child... Read more »

The Exorbitant Cost of Child Care: A Millennial Parent Perspective

By cooper.joslin on July 6, 2017

I am a 26-year-old single mother of a beautiful little girl. I love being a parent. But the cost of child care for a child under the age of two is so expensive in the Washington, DC metro area. More than half of my paycheck goes to child care. As millennial, that is not much... Read more »

Check Out Your Library Before and After Disasters!

By cooper.joslin on June 29, 2017

Every community is vulnerable to disasters: extreme weather, fires, chemical spills, the list goes on. Luckily, most have a local resource to help them prepare and respond to those disasters: their public library!

VIDEO: Finding Affordable, Quality Care for a Child with Special Needs

By cooper.joslin on June 28, 2017

Bianca, a single mother of a four-year-old son with special needs, faced the difficult choice of staying home to take care of her son or working herself into the ground to make ends meet. With the help of affordable, quality child care she was able to continue to work without worrying about the safety or... Read more »

Senators Introduce Bi-Partisan Legislation Supporting Military Family Child Care

By cooper.joslin on June 28, 2017

Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) recently introduced legislation that would help provide more child care support and flexibility to military families. The “Availability of Child Care for Every Servicemember and Spouse (ACCESS) Act of 2017” would apply to child care facilities on military bases and installations, as well as community providers. Today,... Read more »

The Accountant and Child Care Advocacy

By cooper.joslin on June 23, 2017

You may be wondering how you landed on an article written by a CPA that is not related to a technical issue? Allow me to explain. Recently, my wife and I received an opportunity to attend the Child Care Aware® of America’s 2017 Family Advocacy Summit. I have been on a journey on the road... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Kira Boothe

By cooper.joslin on June 23, 2017

Spotlight Kira Boothe, Vista Colina Emergency Family Shelter & Child Development Program, Phoenix, Arizona

Child Care Aware® of America Announces Child Care Licensing Database Launch

By cooper.joslin on June 22, 2017

In 2014, with the reauthorization of the Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), all states were required to have stronger licensing standards. States were then searching for tools to both document their current licensing regulations and develop benchmarks toward meeting best practices for health and safety. To meet that need, we developed CCAoA’s Child Care... Read more »

Prevent to Protect: A Mother’s Experience with the Unheard of Viral Cause of a Birth Defect

By cooper.joslin on June 21, 2017

Most women have never heard of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) (less than 9%) but they need to know about this virus if they are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. CMV is a common and sometimes serious virus for a pregnant woman and her unborn child.

A Dad’s Perspective: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

By cooper.joslin on June 13, 2017

February 24, 2012 was the day my life changed. I became a father to a precious baby girl. As a newly minted parent, I wanted to provide the best possible life for her. My wife was fortunate to have banked enough vacation and sick time to stay home for the first 12 weeks after birth,... Read more »

Child Care Deserts States-Based Reporting Now Available

By cooper.joslin on June 7, 2017

States face unique challenges in exploring child care supply and demand and directing precious resources to ensure accessibility to quality child care. With the passage of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014, it is critical for states and communities to understand how to study child care supply and demand, analyze their... Read more »

Partnering with Vroom to Share Tools and Resources for Diverse Families

By cooper.joslin on June 6, 2017

Family dynamics are unique to say the least. We know that families are made up of many different components and that the traditional family dynamic is becoming more blurred. Because of the uniqueness of our families, we have sought out partners that meet the needs of a variety of families.

Preparing for Hurricanes

By cooper.joslin on June 2, 2017

It’s the time of the year where we must be ready for hurricanes. Preparing in advance has numerous advantages, not the least of which is preventing the last-minute scramble when a hurricane is bearing down and shelves and supplies are depleted. Pacific hurricane season starts May 15, and Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and... Read more »

The Danger of Spreading CMV: How We Can Protect Our Children

By cooper.joslin on June 1, 2017

Everyone agrees toddlers are cute—and they are! But if you are a childcare worker, a nursery volunteer, or have a toddler in child care, you need to know about cytomegalovirus (CMV). What is CMV? The month of June is National Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month. CMV, or cytomegalovirus (sī-to-MEG-a-lo-vī-rus), is a common virus, according to CongenitalCMV.org. Between 50-80%... Read more »

Should I stay or should I go?

By cooper.joslin on May 30, 2017

Not only are these catchy song lyrics, these are common questions you may ask yourself following an emergency or disaster event that affects you, your program, neighborhood, or community.

Why Child Care Center Staff Need to Care About Flu Prevention

By cooper.joslin on May 26, 2017

Every winter, influenza (the flu) ravages both adults and children, spreading like wildfire throughout the community and leaving many at home, in bed, feeling awful for days. Child care centers are affected because the influenza virus is highly contagious, and children are apt to spread the virus unknowingly both to their peers and to adults.... Read more »

A Message from Our Executive Director Regarding the President’s Budget Request

By cooper.joslin on May 23, 2017

Today, President Trump released his budget request for FY 18, which proposed very harmful cuts to programs that support low-income and working-class families and children, including a cut to the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), which serves about 1.5 million income eligible children per month. The proposed cuts will put access to quality,... Read more »

Reflections on Financing Early Care and Education

By cooper.joslin on May 23, 2017

Last week, Child Care Aware® of America’s (CCAoA) Research Team attended the latest public convening for the Committee on Financing Early Care and Education with a Highly Qualified Workforce, sponsored by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The committee is studying how best to fund early care and education for children from birth... Read more »

President Sends Budget Request to Congress

By cooper.joslin on May 23, 2017

Today, President Trump released his detailed FY 2018 budget request, which is a follow up from his “skinny budget” PUBLISH in March. While the President’s request includes proposals that could benefit a number of families, it would be devastating for most low-income and working class parents and their children.

Child Care Aware® of America Introduces the Family Voices Blog/Vlog Series

By cooper.joslin on May 22, 2017

Welcome to our Family Voices Blog/Vlog series! Grab your favorite cup of coffee or tea to enjoy while you immerse yourself in the real-world child care experiences of families from across the nation. These stories all have been written or video logged by people just like you and me who care deeply about the child... Read more »

Record-Breaking Start for 2017 Tornadoes: Prepare Your Child Care Program

By cooper.joslin on May 18, 2017

The Role Child Care Plays for Single Parents

By cooper.joslin on May 16, 2017

Child care was a lifesaver for my family and me. I am a single mom and have taken my three children to child care since they were 2 years old. I would not have been able to support my family without child care. When my children turned of age in 2012 I also received custody... Read more »

A Mother’s Story: The Challenge and Gift of Affording Quality Child Care

By cooper.joslin on May 16, 2017

I work in the nonprofit sector. It is something I am incredibly passionate about, but I do not make a lot of money. I have twin boys that are just over a year-and-a-half old now. They are in child care and have been since they were infants. Fortunately, I was able to get an ABC... Read more »

National Call-In Day May 18

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2017

It’s time for a call-in day to Congress while there still time to let them know that we need to prioritize child care funding in the FY 2018 budget.

Provider Health Spotlight on Christina Nelson

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2017

Spotlight Christina Nelson, Mountain View Child Care, North Troy, Vermont

Health Resource Spotlight: Virtual Early Education Center

By cooper.joslin on May 15, 2017

Spotlight On Virtual Early Education Center (VEEC)

How Vroom Speaks to Every CCR&R Audience

By cooper.joslin on May 9, 2017

 I have been a Vroom Ambassador since the inception of the program in 2016, and I still marvel at the way this program seems to speak to so many different audiences. There is just something about the design of the materials that makes them adaptable to every place, whether I am presenting to large and... Read more »

Celebrating Provider Appreciation Day

By cooper.joslin on May 8, 2017

Child care plays a vital role in the early education and care of our nation’s children. This is especially important given that the early years of a child’s life are the most critical for development. We know that children who receive high-quality child care benefit throughout their lives. However, despite the importance of high-quality child... Read more »

House Passes Legislation That Could Put Access to Health Care for Children and Families At Risk

By cooper.joslin on May 4, 2017

On May 4, the House of Representatives barely passed H.R. 1628, the “American Health Care Act (AHCA) of 2017,” on a party-line vote. H.R. 1628 would replace the “Affordable Care Act of 2010,” and if enacted into law, it could result in more than 20 million people losing access to health insurance, as well as millions... Read more »

The Importance of Including Children in Emergency Preparedness Planning

By cooper.joslin on May 4, 2017

As a child care provider, you have chosen a profession of caring for children, and you try your best to protect them every day. There are many things you do to keep them safe, but it may be impossible to prepare for all possibilities. However, by including children’s needs and children themselves in preparedness planning,... Read more »

Child Care Advocates Join Together to Celebrate Provider Appreciation Day 2017

By cooper.joslin on May 3, 2017

Quality Child Care – A Priceless Commodity that Deserves Recognition Arlington, VA, May 12, 2017 – Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is proud to partner with the National Association of Family Child Care, National Association for the Education of Young Children, National Head Start Association, National Indian Child Care Association, Teachstone, and Afterschool Alliance... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Wins Arlington’s Best Business Award

By cooper.joslin on May 3, 2017

The Arlington Chamber of Commerce awarded Child Care Aware® of America with Arlington’s Best Business Award for the nonprofit category at a special ceremony on May 2. The award celebrates area businesses that deliver exceptional quality of service to their customers, are industry leaders, or offer a unique approach to delivery of goods and services.... Read more »

Child Care Programs Fare Very Well in Budget Agreement

By cooper.joslin on May 2, 2017

Earlier this week, Congress and the Administration agreed to a FY 2017 omnibus spending bill that will fund the federal government through September 30. The bill, which is expected to pass and be signed into law in the next couple of days, includes nearly $5 billion in new funding for early education and health programs.... Read more »

Did You Miss the Child Care Aware® of America Policy Summit? Here’s a Recap

By cooper.joslin on May 1, 2017

We were excited to have more than 300 attendees join us for this year’s Child Care Aware® of America Policy Summit on April 23-25 in Washington, D.C. Child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies and early child care professionals from various disciplines and settings joined us from across the nation to address policy, practice, and... Read more »

Trumps Tax Plan Fall Short of the Child Care Support Families Need

By cooper.joslin on April 27, 2017

This week, the Trump Administration released a broad tax proposal to Congress which includes expanding the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) with the possibility of making it refundable.

How Child Care Providers Play a Role in Childhood Immunizations

By cooper.joslin on April 21, 2017

The health, safety and well-being of children is of primary concern for child care providers. As trusted professionals, child care providers often serve as a resource for new parents and families. One of the ways that child care providers can help ensure that children are healthy is to encourage that families follow the childhood immunization... Read more »

Month of the Military Child: Our Executive Director’s Story

By cooper.joslin on April 20, 2017

Fireworks went off when I was born…or at least that is what my Mom told me. I think it was more like flares than fireworks.  You see I was born while my Dad was deployed to Vietnam. Apparently, nothing could keep my Mom, a very young mother, from calling her husband about his second-born daughter’s... Read more »

Family Voices, Quality Choices

By cooper.joslin on April 13, 2017

In May, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) will begin piloting the Family Voices, Quality Choices resource suite—a collection of child care consumer information and outreach materials—at two Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies for a period of four months. Child Care Services Association in North Carolina and Child Care Aware® of Kansas have partnered... Read more »

Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation for Child Care/New York State Department of Health

By cooper.joslin on April 13, 2017

It was a news article that changed the arc of Carla Wallin’s career. In the early 2000s, the article reported the results of a research study on breastfeeding rates in the U.S. Rates were falling, and the dip was associated with women returning to work or school after giving birth.

Provider Health Spotlight on Barb Sinner

By cooper.joslin on April 13, 2017

Spotlight Barb Sinner, Barb’s Daycare, West Fargo, ND

Month of the Military Child: CCAoA Board Member Patricia Barron’s Story

By cooper.joslin on April 10, 2017

April has always been one of my favorite months. We emerge from the drabness of winter into blooming colors and sun filled days. Spring never fails to refresh and renew my spirit. April is also the Month of the Military Child and, as a military mom who raised three military children in an Army family,... Read more »

Attention: Child Care Staff – Sign up for Health Round-Up News

By cooper.joslin on April 6, 2017

Are you interested in health news as it relates to child care? Health Round-Up is a monthly subscription-based newsletter for child care staff, family child care providers, and state-level ECE stakeholders.

Interstate Collapse in Atlanta Offers Lessons for Parents & Providers

By cooper.joslin on March 31, 2017

On Thursday, March 30, 2017, around 6 p.m., a fire was reported under a section of I-85 in Atlanta. The fire ultimately caused a section of the interstate to collapse around 7 p.m., stranding motorists for hours and creating a more than five mile backup of traffic. The mayor has described this event as a... Read more »

Month of the Military Child: Adina’s Story

By cooper.joslin on March 31, 2017

Being a child of a father serving in the U.S. Air Force looks glamorous (aside from being called an “Air Force Brat”)! I got to travel the world and see things most other children didn’t get to see. For instance, I lived in Italy for 3 years! My triplet sisters, Celeste, Courtney, and I were... Read more »

TODAY is Child Care Call-In Day!

By cooper.joslin on March 30, 2017

Child Care Aware® of America and Child Care Works have joined with CLASP, NWLC, NAEYC, NAFCC, NBCDI, YWCA, and ZERO TO THREE for national call-in day for child care.

Parents: Is Your Child Care Program Prepared?

By cooper.joslin on March 28, 2017

Placing your child in another person’s care can be a difficult and emotional decision. When looking for a child care program, your most important consideration is the safety and well-being of your child. Knowing your child will be cared for in a healthy and secure environment that has appropriate safety measures in place is a... Read more »

CCAoA Holds Child Care Briefing on Capitol Hill.

By cooper.joslin on March 27, 2017

Did you miss our child care policy briefing on March 23, 2017 for Congressional staffers on the issue of child care? Visit our Facebook page to see a recording of the live coverage. Approximately 45 congressional staffers attend the event when CCAoA discussed the state of public investments in child care and early childhood development... Read more »

Why I’m Not Having Children…At Least Not Anytime Soon

By cooper.joslin on March 24, 2017

The most recent data shows that millennials are having children later in life than the generation before them. According to a study by Goldman Sachs, the median age for millennials to get married has increased from 23 to 30! As I get older, I am bombarded with the following question: “When are you going to... Read more »

Outbreak of E. coli Infections in Kids Linked to Recalled SoyNut Butter Products

By cooper.joslin on March 24, 2017

Family Child Care providers, Child Care Centers and parents should take note—the CDC is investigating a major outbreak of E.coli linked to SoyNut Butter.

Millennials Face Unprecedented Challenges in Affording Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 21, 2017

The clash between the American dream and the American reality has gotten dramatically worse for millennials seeking to have a career and family, a battle outlined in stark details in a new report by Child Care Aware® of America.

Health Resource Spotlight: Bring Out the Best in Your Children

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2017

Spotlight On Bring Out the Best in Your Children

Provider Health Spotlight on Tatiyana Lipinka

By cooper.joslin on March 20, 2017

Spotlight Tatiyana Lipinka, Brooklyn Child Care Inc., Brooklyn, NY

National Poison Prevention Week: Not About Removing Everything that Could Be Toxic

By cooper.joslin on March 19, 2017

Poisoning is the #1 cause of injury death in the United States, and the number of children who die from poisoning has more than doubled since 1999. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers’ National Poison Data System’s 2015 Annual Report, just under half of exposure cases managed by poison centers involved children... Read more »

President Trump Proposes Elimination of Programs That Support Child Care

By cooper.joslin on March 16, 2017

President Trump submitted his FY 2018 budget request to Congress. As expected, the President maintained his commitment to reducing all non-defense, discretionary programs by a total of $54 billion. However, his proposal includes cutting all federal support for two programs that are vital to low-income and working class communities; the 21st Century Community Learning Centers... Read more »

UPDATE: House withdraws ACA Repeal and Replace Legislation

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2017

UPDATED post: Last Friday afternoon, the House of Representatives withdrew a scheduled vote on H.R. 1628, the “American Health Care Act (AHCA) of 2017,” after it was very clear that House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) did not have the votes for passage.  This came after a late-night deal of adding a provision to H.R. 1628... Read more »

Flu Season is Still Here: Protect Yourself and the Children in Your Care

By cooper.joslin on March 13, 2017

With daylight savings time here, you may think that flu season has passed; that is not necessarily the case. Although spring is near, colds and the flu can still affect all of us.

February 2017 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on March 7, 2017

  Kim Engelman, PhD, Chief of Family and Community Engagement; Terra Bonds Clark, Chief Learning Officer; and Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., Executive Director of Child Care Aware® of America, recently visited colleagues from Sesame Street in Communities in New York City to explore prospective collaborative opportunities related to family and community engagement and professional development.

Dear Ivanka: If you want to fix child care, don’t start with women like me

By cooper.joslin on March 6, 2017

When I heard you utter the words “affordable, quality child care for all families” at the Republican convention last summer, I literally stood up and cheered in the middle of my living room. It’s one of the many, and arguably one of the most important, issues facing working families. These are the families that I... Read more »

Dr. Lynette Fraga Elected as Chair of Children’s Leadership Council Board of Directors

By cooper.joslin on March 6, 2017

Arlington, VA, March 6, 2017 – The Children’s Leadership Council (CLC) has announced the appointment of Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., as Chair of the organization’s Board of Directors. The CLC is a coalition of more than 50 of the nation’s major organizations dedicated to improving the lives and opportunities of American babies, children, and youth.... Read more »

¿Por Qué Mi Hijo Se Comporta Así?

By cooper.joslin on February 28, 2017

Todos los padres se preguntan a veces si el comportamiento de su hijo es normal. Los niños de todas las edades exhiben comportamientos bochornosos o frustrantes: gimoteo, berrinches, pláticas sobre temas “tabú,” malas palabras, o una tendencia a ser mandón con los compañeritos. Estos comportamientos ponen a prueba su paciencia y pueden hacer que pierda... Read more »

Why Does My Child Act Like That?

By cooper.joslin on February 28, 2017

All parents wonder at times whether their child’s behavior is normal. Children at every age exhibit embarrassing or frustrating behaviors: whining, tantrums, bathroom talk, swearing, or bossiness. These behaviors test your patience and can leave you at your wit’s end. As much as you love your child, his actions can make you feel uncomfortable and... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on the Kennedy Child Study Center (KCSC)

By cooper.joslin on February 17, 2017

Spotlight Kennedy Child Study Center, New York, NY

Health Resource Spotlight: Getting Fluoride for Your Child

By cooper.joslin on February 17, 2017

Spotlight on Healthy Habits for Happy Smiles: Getting Fluoride for Your Child

Feeding Guidelines for Infants and Young Toddlers: A Responsive Parenting Approach

By cooper.joslin on February 17, 2017

Helping children develop good eating habits starts at infancy. New feeding guidelines have been released that can help caregivers know what and how best to feed infants and toddlers. These guidelines help make sure that children are getting enough, but not too much of the right foods, so we can reduce their risk of developing... Read more »

7 Ways YOU Can Help Us Improve Child Care in 2017

By cooper.joslin on February 16, 2017

Advocacy is one of the most important and most underutilized tools we have to influence child care policy in the political system. And we need to work on that – fast!

Congressman Tom Price Confirmed as Next Secretary of Health and Human Services

By cooper.joslin on February 10, 2017

Late last night, the Senate confirmed Georgia Congressman, Tom Price, as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) on a 52-47 party-line vote. Secretary Price will now oversee critical programs that support children and families including the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) and Head Start. In addition, he will also be a key... Read more »

January 2017 Child Care Provider of the Month – Kind Hearts Day Care

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2017

Arlington, VA – Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), National Head Start Association (NHSA), and National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA) would like to congratulate Julie Hume and the staff at Kind Hearts Day Care in Princeton, Minnesota. They have been named Provider of the Month for... Read more »

Senate Confirms Betsy DeVos

By cooper.joslin on February 7, 2017

Earlier today, the Senate confirmed President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, on a 51-50 vote with Vice-President Pence casting the deciding vote. This is the first time a sitting Vice-President has had to vote to confirm a cabinet nominee. Last month, Betsy DeVos had a very contentious nomination hearing with the Senate... Read more »

January 2017 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on February 6, 2017

As we embark on 2017, we look forward to a new year and how we can make an impact during the first 100 days of the new administration. On child and family programs and policy we remain committed to ensure the new Administration and Congress are aware of the policies and resources critical for positive... Read more »

CCAoA Celebrates American Heart and Black History Months

By cooper.joslin on February 6, 2017

Heart disease and strokes are the #1 killers of women in the United States Roughly every minute, another woman dies, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). Although heart disease affects women of all races and ethnicities, rates are especially high for African-American women. Here’s a little story to inspire you:

Senators Introduce Bi-Partisan Legislation to Reform Child Care Tax Credits

By cooper.joslin on January 30, 2017

Late last week, Senators Richard Burr (R-NC) and Angus King (I-ME) introduced the Promoting Affordable Care for Everyone (PACE) Act of 2017. The goal of the PACE Act is to make these tax credits more generous for working and low-income families and reflect the rising cost of child care. This legislation would update several Federal... Read more »

Help Build Your Child’s Brain on National Opposite Day

By cooper.joslin on January 24, 2017

National Opposite Day is observed every year on January 25. Many enjoy using this day to try to confuse others by saying and doing the opposite of what they really mean. Why not use this day to help build your child’s brain? By the age of five, your child’s brain has reached 90 percent of... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Yolanda Gilbert

By cooper.joslin on January 23, 2017

Spotlight Yolanda Gilbert, Dolores’ House for Little People, Sheboygan, WI

Health Resource Spotlight: Nutrition Education

By cooper.joslin on January 19, 2017

Spotlight Nutrition Education: Resources on the Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center (ECLKC) website.

Helping Children Deal with Stress

By cooper.joslin on January 11, 2017

2016 was in many ways, a year of big changes; 2017 will bring a lot of change too.

Take Action Against an Undetectable Gas: It’s National Radon Action Month

By cooper.joslin on January 3, 2017

This month we are acknowledging National Radon Action Month. We encourage you to test your home and workplace for radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released in rock, soil, and water from the natural decay of uranium. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, but it could be present at a dangerous level... Read more »

Child Care Health Summits – Colorado

By cooper.joslin on December 19, 2016

Talk about change. Colorado’s early care and education system is undergoing major shifts, largely in response to new requirements at the state and federal levels. For starters, there are the new federal requirements in the reauthorized Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act. In addition, last year Colorado’s child care licensing regulations were updated... Read more »

Health Resource Spotlight: Reducing Stress

By cooper.joslin on December 16, 2016

Spotlight Take Care of Yourself: Reduce Your Stress

Holiday Toy Safety – Making Smart Choices While Allowing Children to Still Have Fun

By cooper.joslin on December 14, 2016

The holiday season often brings an abundance of excitement for young children who anticipate receiving new toys and games. The gift givers’ tasks aren’t accomplished by simply finding and buying the wish list items—attention also needs to also be paid on ensuring that gifts are age appropriate and pose no safety hazards.

Submit Your Proposal to Help Disseminate High-Quality Child Care Information to Vulnerable Families

By cooper.joslin on December 14, 2016

Every week in the United States, nearly 11 million children younger than age five are in some type of child care arrangement. While all families with young children benefit from an awareness and knowledge of high-quality, affordable child care options that match their need for safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate care, children from economically challenged... Read more »

The 114th Congress Ends and President Obama Signs His Final Bills Into Law

By cooper.joslin on December 13, 2016

During the late hours of December 9, the Senate avoided a government shutdown and approved H.R. 2028, a continuing resolution (CR) that will fund the Federal government until April 28, 2017. CRs, which are used is the absence of a final budget bill, are funded at the same levels appropriated for the previous fiscal year (2016). In... Read more »

November 2016 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on December 13, 2016

As the leaves change and the weather starts to turn cold, we shift our attention to important end-of-the year work, which includes the launch of our 10th Parents and the High Cost of Child Care report. Visit usa.childcareaware.org/costofcare for more information on this year’s report, which includes both state and county-level data on the cost... Read more »

Evaluating the Impact of Expensive Child Care on Families, Businesses, and the Economy

By cooper.joslin on December 7, 2016

Report Shows Child Care Too Expensive for Today’s Families

By cooper.joslin on December 6, 2016

Arlington, VA, December 7, 2016  – Child Care Aware® of America’s (CCAoA) 10th annual report researching child care costs in counties and states across the U.S. shows families can’t afford child care in 49 of 50 states.

Obama Administration Releases Final ESSA Regulations

By cooper.joslin on November 28, 2016

Earlier today, the Department of Education PUBLISH the final regulations to implement the “Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015.”  The final ESSA regulations are designed to support states in maximizing their opportunities under the new law.

Election Debrief: Child Care Advocacy in the Trump Administration

By cooper.joslin on November 23, 2016

Last week, Child Care Aware® of America’s policy team hosted a webinar that provided a debrief on the 2016 election. The presentation included details on key staff for the incoming Trump Administration, the breakdown of the membership of the 115th Congress, and the results of numerous elections at the state level. Our team also reviewed... Read more »

CCAoA to Host Facebook Live Panel with Advocates on Election Results and What’s Next for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on November 22, 2016

Child Care Aware® of America is hosting a Facebook Live panel discussion on November 29 at 9 a.m. EST to talk with parents about the new landscape after the presidential election and what you can do to make child care is a priority. The panel will include compelling personal stories from three families who are... Read more »

Congress Punts on Finishing Federal Budget Until March

By cooper.joslin on November 21, 2016

Yesterday, House Republican leadership announced that they will draft another continuing resolution (CR) that will fund the government until March 31, 2017. This is being done in consultation with President-Elect Donald Trump’s transition team. There is bipartisan opposition to this proposal in the Senate, however it appears unlikely that it would be filibustered. The current... Read more »

Leaving for Logan: Looking for an Oasis in a Child Care Desert

By cooper.joslin on November 21, 2016

The importance of high-quality, affordable child care affects everyone. In the spirit of the holiday giving season, Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to share with you a special edition story in Faces of Child Care, a series of stories from individuals of various walks of life who are affected by child care. Read Ashley’s... Read more »

Whole-Grain Rich Foods—What’s That?

By cooper.joslin on November 10, 2016

Confused by the new grain requirements for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)? You’ll be happy to know that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently issued a memorandum that spells out exactly what CACFP means by “whole-grain rich” foods.

Report on Media Use and How It Affects Young Children

By cooper.joslin on November 9, 2016

A new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on Children and Adolescents and Digital Media explores new recommendations for children’s media use. The report covers what we currently know about media use and how it affects young children and adolescents and makes recommendations for pediatricians and parents. These recommendations are designed to help... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Karen Ekdahl

By cooper.joslin on November 8, 2016

Spotlight Karen Ekdahl, Bellingham Childcare & Learning Center, Bellingham, Washington

Child Care Aware® of America Celebrates Military Family Appreciation Month

By cooper.joslin on November 4, 2016

Child care has become a major issue this election season, highlighted throughout the debates and presidential candidate platforms alike. The focus has mainly been on families and the challenges they face when seeking high-quality, affordable child care. For military families this can be especially difficult. According to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), active-duty military... Read more »

October 2016 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on November 4, 2016

We are now officially into fall! Leaves are finally starting to change, and the holidays are right around the corner. With the close of October comes the 2016 elections, which we continue to follow closely as both candidates have elevated the issue of child care in their platforms. We invite you to visit our Child... Read more »

September 2016 Child Care Provider of the Month: Brenda’s Child Care

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2016

Arlington, VA – Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), National Head Start Association (NHSA), and National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA) would like to congratulate Brenda Petith and the staff at Brenda’s Child Care, LLC in North Logan, Utah.... Read more »

Federal Employees, Show Some Love to CCAoA with CFC #12300

By cooper.joslin on November 1, 2016

Do you believe all families should have access to affordable, high-quality child care? Are you a federal employee or member of the military? Do you know anyone who fits this description? Then you still have two months to select Child Care Aware® of America as your CFC charity of choice!

CCAoA Recognized for Outstanding Marketing and Communications Work

By cooper.joslin on October 26, 2016

Child Care Aware® of America has been awarded three MarCom Awards as part of a 2016 creative competition for marketing and communications professionals. Platinum Award: Child Care Aware® of America 2016-2017 Calendar Gold Award: Child Care Works website Gold Award: Child Care Aware® of America Annual Report Child Care Aware® of America was selected as... Read more »

Is Your Smoke Alarm Working? Outdated?

By cooper.joslin on October 20, 2016

Smoke alarms are a vital part of fire safety. You should have a smoke alarm on each level of your home and in each bedroom. Sadly, every year lives are lost because smoke alarms are neglected. From 2009-2013, three out of five home fire deaths occurred in homes with no smoke alarms or no working... Read more »

CCAoA Poll Explores How & What Parents Look for in Quality Child Care

By cooper.joslin on October 17, 2016

On August 8, 2016, Child Care Aware® of America formerly launched a Child Care Information Poll. The poll generated 255 responses from parents around the nation. We would like to thank all who participated in and shared this poll. We also congratulate the winner of the $50 gift card drawing, awarded to a parent located... Read more »

Child Care Aware® of America Report Focuses on Barriers to Early Education for Boys of Color

By cooper.joslin on October 14, 2016

Arlington, VA – Overall, boys of color (primarily African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians/Alaska Natives) face structural obstacles that stack the odds against their success in school and in life. They are more likely to grow up in low-income households, and less likely to attend high-quality schools, starting in very early childhood.

Getting Serious About Fire Safety

By cooper.joslin on October 14, 2016

Over 1.3 million fires were reported in the United States last year. Fires have a significant impact on children, parents and child care providers. On average, every day 293 children are injured and at least one child dies from fire. Each year approximately 325 fires occur in child care centers. As we focus on fire... Read more »

Provider Health Spotlight on Maranda Parker

By cooper.joslin on October 11, 2016

Spotlight Maranda Parker, (former) Health and Fitness Education Specialist, White Birch Community Center, Henniker, New Hampshire

Hillary Clinton Proposes Doubling the Child Tax Credit

By cooper.joslin on October 11, 2016

    Building on her plan to help working families gain access to child care and lift themselves out of poverty, the Democratic nominee for President, Hillary Clinton, proposed to expand the child tax credit for families living in poverty and families with children under the age of four who qualify. According to the Clinton... Read more »

Summary of CCDF Final Rule Now Available

By cooper.joslin on October 6, 2016

Last month, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) PUBLISH the final rule for the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) based on the 2014 Child Care and Development Block Grant Act (CCDBG). This final rule updates CCDF regulations for the first time since 1998.

Minnesota Receives Child Care Emergency Preparedness Grant

By cooper.joslin on October 6, 2016

Arlington, Va. – Child Care Aware® of Minnesota was recently awarded the Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies as Resilience Hubs grant. Grant funding from Child Care Aware® of America will support a new project designed to strengthen emergency preparedness efforts for children, parents, and child care providers, and to enhance coordination with first responder... Read more »

September 2016 Footnotes

By cooper.joslin on October 4, 2016

It is hard to believe that September is ending and we are already moving into October. And with that comes shorter days, cooler weather, and perhaps the most important thing—the final stretch in the presidential campaigns. The cost of child care has become a major issue for the 2016 elections, and we are excited to... Read more »

What You Need to Know: Zika Virus

By cooper.joslin on September 29, 2016

It’s a funny sounding name, but this virus is no joke. The Zika virus is growing health concern that has the attention of lead health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).The Zika virus can be spread in three different ways. The most common way is... Read more »

CCAoA Discusses Child Care on Diane Rehm Show

By cooper.joslin on September 28, 2016

This week, Lynette M. Fraga, Ph.D., Executive Director, Child Care Aware® of America, and other leading experts in the child care space were on the Diane Rehm Show on NPR (88.5 FM) to discuss the issues surround child care in our country. Child care has become a major issue in the presidential election. Our recently... Read more »

New Research on Implicit Bias in Early Childhood Education

By cooper.joslin on September 28, 2016

It was a crisp breezy fall morning as I drove my car into the garage near my job. Suddenly my cell phone rings and I look at the caller ID and take a deep breath. Sigh…it’s my daughter’s child care provider again.

Child Care Mentioned Early On In First Presidential Debate

By cooper.joslin on September 27, 2016

We were excited to hear child care mentioned in the first 10 minutes of the first Presidential debate. It makes sense – 90% of Americans want the next president to expand access to child care and early learning opportunities. It’s a critical issue that candidates across the aisle can agree on.

A Divided Electorate Unites on Quality Early Childhood Care and Learning

By cooper.joslin on September 26, 2016

Child care is a necessity for many of today’s American families, especially low- and middle-income families, yet the cost of accessing high-quality care often rivals the cost of housing. For four years running, the First Five Years Fund’s annual national bipartisan poll shows that early childhood education and care is a national priority for Americans,... Read more »

Care Index Launch & Event: Hear from the Leading Voices on Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 22, 2016

On Wednesday, September 28, leaders in the child care space will discuss the state of the caregiving landscape and how to support families and value care. Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to partner with New America’s Better Life Lab, Care.com, and AT Kearney to launch The Care Index and New America Care Report.

Kansas Begins Two-Year Project to Focus on Emergency Preparedness for Child Care

By cooper.joslin on September 21, 2016

Arlington, Va. — Child Care Aware® of Kansas was recently awarded the Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies as Resilience Hubs grant. Grant funding from Child Care Aware® of America will support a new two-year project designed to strengthen emergency preparedness efforts for children, parents, and child care providers and also enhance coordination with first... Read more »

September is Obesity Prevention Month

By cooper.joslin on September 20, 2016

All children should have the opportunity to grow up healthy. In the United States, many adults and children spend a lot more time than we should sitting and watching screens. And even though we know better, children and adults don’t always eat as many vegetables and fruits or lean meats as we should. There are... Read more »

Webinar: Serving Young Homeless Children under CCDF

By cooper.joslin on September 19, 2016

Join Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) and the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) for a webinar on serving homeless children under the Child Care and Development Fund Program.

Health Resource Spotlight: Practice-Based Coaching

By cooper.joslin on September 16, 2016

Spotlight Practice-Based Coaching

Provider Health Spotlight on Tammy Kasier

By cooper.joslin on September 15, 2016

Spotlight Tammy Kaiser, Director of Temple Beit Ha Yam Early Childhood Learning Center, Stuart, Florida

Presidential Candidates Release Child Care Proposals—What This Means for Parents

By cooper.joslin on September 14, 2016

Arlington, VA – The importance of high-quality, affordable child care continues to remain a high priority issue for Presidential candidates this election year. To date, both candidates have submitted child care proposals that could impact parents, including paid maternity or family leave and tax credits for families. Child Care Aware® of America is closely following... Read more »

Child Care Takes Center Stage in this Election – As it Should