What’s the connection between early learning and afterschool professionals and FFN care?

 

  1. All adults who care for children want the kids to be successful and happy.  Although they play different roles at different times, it is important for formal child care workers, parents and family, friend and neighbor caregivers to all be able to support the development and learning of the children in their care.

    children playing game

  2. Families and kids use both FFN care and licensed care.  Over 65% of Minnesota families who use child care use two or more forms of care, and FFN care is the most common form.
  1. Strengthening the quality of all forms of care is essential to implementing a comprehensive early learning system capable of getting all children ready for school.

  2. Minnesota is already supportive of FFN care, through public and private funding and research. 

  3. Some licensed providers may be concerned that most family, friend and neighbor caregivers are not required to be licensed by the state.  The state legislature has made a distinction between the need for licensing in non-familial situations and the importance of respecting family-type care relationships.

  4. Families with low incomes may be able to get help paying for family, friend and neighbor child care, just as they can for licensed child care centers.

 

Connection—System—Minnesota —Why FFN child care—Training—Support

You may also want to visit our sections for Family, Friend & Neighbor caregivers and Community Organizations working with FFN providers.