If you like the warmth of a home setting, personal care, the consistency of the same caregiver, and where siblings remaining together, consider the Family Child Care option. As a parent, it is important that you feel comfortable about who will care for your child while you must be away. The family child care setting is a smaller, more personal environment that is especially good for infants and very young children.

• State Certified Homes

• USDA Food Program

• STAR Rated Homes

• Curriculum Aligned with Kentucky's Early Childhood Standards

• Individual Assessments Prepare for Kindergarten Readiness

• Nurturing Homes

• Stimulating Activities

• Low Ratios

• Consistent Care

• Flexible Schedule

• Conventionally located throughout Northern Kentucky

Family Child Care providers have offered care in their homes for small groups of children through Children, Inc.'s family child care network of services since 1985. Homes are state certified and must adhere to certain standards and regulations. Children's ages can be mixed, similar to a family unit. Providers participate in the USDA Food Program to ensure high nutritional standards. For some women, family child care provides an independent employment opportunity where they can work out of their home and earn an income, yet be with their own children, too.

Family Child Care homes participate in the STARS for KIDS NOW Quality Rating System granted through the Kentucky Department of Education.  The STARS rating system awards programs from  one to four stars, based on key quality indicators.  Providers are rated on a voluntary basis.  It is important to note that all star ratings indicate that the provider surpasses the minimum licensing requirements that all programs must meet.

Family Child Care Curriculum is aligned with the Kentucky Early Childhood Standards that prepare  children to do well in kindergarten.  The Standards are aligned with the K-12 Program of Studies followed by the Kentucky Department of Education. Providers plan age-appropriate curriculum each day and consider the physical, emotional-social, and intellectual needs of each child. Each day is filled with learning, fun, and a routine that provides a sense of security for your child.

Family Child Care Assesses each child twice a year using the nationally-normed Brigance assessment tool to determine the individual needs of each child and inform their practice.  These results are shared with parents by using the Watch Me Grow communication tool. 

Family Child Care homes are located throughout Northern Kentucky in a six county area. When you are considering the option of family child care, Children, Inc. will consult with you about your needs and then provide a list of providers to you. You can visit the home and evaluate the environment and caregiver just as if you were enrolling in any other program.

Family Child Care Staff are individuals who are independently employed. Children, Inc. works hand-in-hand with providers to offer quality care by providing technical assistance, training, and support. In addition, Children, Inc. helps screen homes and monitor them through monthly visits and consultations. Providers are required to attend continuing education workshops to enhance their knowledge. Providers are also required to be certified in First Aid and CPR.

Family Child Care Provider-Parent Interactions are based on a mutual agreement between the provider and you as a parent. It is important that a professional relationship be established. Together you and a family child care provider determine hours, days, and other details of care that pertain to you, your child, and the provider. Success is based on open communication, respectfulness, and a partnership between you and the provider. If any concerns arise about a provider, you are free to consult with Children, Inc.

Request provider information near your home or work.