NAFCC Engages Educators at CDA Early Education Learning Conference in Orlando

The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) had a strong presence at the CDA Council for Professional Recognition Early Education Learning Conference in Orlando, Florida, connecting with educators, sharing resources, and celebrating family child care leadership. Erica Phillips, NAFCC Executive Director, joined a panel with Dr. Angela Perla-Almodovar (CEO, Early Childhood Initiative of America), Andrea Maldonado (NAFCC Director of Quality Assessment and Recognition), Dezire’e Mattocks (NAFCC Director of Professional Development), and Francia Wisnewski (NAFCC Director of Membership) to present on how accreditation and professional credentials strengthen quality and elevate the family child care sector. The panel emphasized the importance of investing in standards, professional development, and recognition of excellence to ensure every child in a home-based setting receives high-quality early learning experiences.

Throughout the conference, NAFCC team members connected with attendees at the vendor booth, sharing information about membership benefits, accreditation, professional development opportunities, and resources to support family child care providers. The team enjoyed answering questions, sharing insights, and celebrating the essential role of family child care educators in communities nationwide. The conference concluded with a special dinner reception, bringing together NAFCC members and early childhood professionals for an evening of networking, conversation, and celebration, highlighting the community, collaboration, and shared commitment that make the family child care field so impactful.

Connecticut Family Child Care Advocates Meet with Senator Murphy’s Office

Maria Amado, NAFCC State Representative for Connecticut, met with Mike Fallon, Outreach Director, and Erin McBride, Outreach Assistant, from Senator Chris Murphy’s district office to discuss the pressing issues affecting family child care. Joining her was NAFCC Director of Membership, Francia Wisnewski, along with a group of dedicated educators who shared firsthand experiences and offered clear insights into the policy changes needed to sustain and strengthen home-based care in Connecticut.

The conversation highlighted the power of educator-driven advocacy and underscored the importance of showing up—both locally and nationally—to make a difference.

Family Child Care Leaders Host First NAFCC State Representatives Retreat in Washington, D.C.

Family child care leaders Tiffany Taylor (NAFCC Membership Council Delegate & New York State Representative), Vantoinette Savage (NAFCC Affiliate Council Delegate & North Carolina State Representative), and Cynthia Davis (NAFCC State Representative, Washington, D.C.) hosted the first-ever NAFCC State Representatives Retreat in Washington, D.C.

The retreat brought together passionate leaders from across the country to connect, collaborate, and strengthen their collective voice in support of family child care. We extend special thanks to our sponsors—Alliance For Early Success, National Women’s Law Center, First Five Years Fund, Community Change, and NAFCC—for making this event possible.

Together, we are building stronger connections and advancing leadership across the family child care community.

Elevating Family Child Care: NAFCC Partners with All Our Kin in NYC

Andrea Maldonado, NAFCC’s Director of Quality Assessment and Recognition, attended the All Our Kin Accreditation Resource Fair in the Bronx, celebrating the launch of Accreditation Plus—an initiative designed to support family child care educators in achieving NAFCC Accreditation, the Gold Standard of quality and excellence.

Building on All Our Kin’s Thriving Providers Project, which strengthens the economic well-being of educators through direct cash assistance and community support, this partnership highlights the resources and collaborations that help family child care providers thrive. As the project concludes in 2025, NAFCC and local partners are shining a spotlight on the shared efforts that empower educators and elevate the profession.

We’re proud to collaborate on this important work to strengthen quality, empower educators, and celebrate family child care leadership nationwide.

NAFCC Was in the Building at the NARA Conference!

NAFCC had a great time connecting with leaders, advocates, and educators at the NARA Conference in Norfolk, VA. Dezireé Mattocks, Ed.S., Director of Professional Development, proudly represented NAFCC and shared our mission to uplift and empower Family Child Care educators nationwide.

Attendees stopped by the NAFCC booth on Monday, September 15, to spin the wheel and win exciting prizes. The excitement continued on Tuesday, September 16, with a Grand Prize Raffle—congratulations to Noelia, winner of one free 2026 NAFCC National Conference ticket and three hotel nights in Chicago.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to connect, learn more about NAFCC, or simply say hello. Your energy and support made this event unforgettable.

NAFCC Amplifies Family Child Care Voices at Reimagining Child Care Network Convening

NAFCC participated in the Reimagining Child Care Network convening in Raleigh, North Carolina. Interim Director of Policy and Movement Building, Eboni Delaney, and Director of Development, Lolita Jerido, joined family child care advocate Corrine Hendrickson to highlight NAFCC’s work in shifting the national narrative around family child care.

The team also connected with leaders across North Carolina, including Senator Jay Chaudhuri and NAFCC State Representative Vantoinette Savage, strengthening partnerships to ensure that the power and value of family child care are recognized, heard, and celebrated.

NAFCC State Representatives on the Move!

NAFCC State Representatives Lenise Parker, Sharon Jackson, Arleen Lambert, and Vantoinette Savage are attended the Child Care For Every Family Network Grassroots Assembly in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

They connected with fellow advocates and leaders from across the nation to advance equitable, high-quality child care for all families and to ensure Family Child Care voices are at the table in shaping solutions that work for children, educators, and communities.

NAFCC Highlights Family Child Care Excellence in Orlando

NAFCC Interim Director of Policy & Movement Building, Eboni Delaney, recently visited Overcomer Kids 3E in Orlando, Florida, led by family child care educators Christina and Quiara Brown. Christina and Quiara were featured in the regional Emmy-nominated We Are Family Child Care documentary, where their powerful story brought national attention to the essential role of family child care.

During the visit, the warmth of their environment, the intentionality of their practice, and the joy of the children they serve were clear reminders of why family child care is vital to families and communities. Moments like these underscore the importance of elevating the voices and leadership of FCC educators nationwide.

NAFCC at the National Black Child Development Institute Conference

Eboni Delaney, NAFCC Interim Director of Policy & Movement Building, attended the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) National Conference to engage with leaders and professionals in early childhood education.

Her participation highlighted NAFCC’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and supporting family child care educators across diverse communities, while fostering connections and sharing best practices to strengthen the field.

During the conference, Eboni, along with Dr. Joan Lombardi, also uplifted the NAFCC Global Learning Convening, reflecting on its role in advancing knowledge and collaboration in early childhood care.

NAFCC Participates in Care Can’t Wait Coalition Retreat

Eboni Delaney, Interim Director of Policy and Movement Building, and Yesy Robles-Brown, Chief of Staff, are attending the Care Can’t Wait Coalition Retreat this week in Washington, D.C.

The retreat brings together national partners dedicated to advancing care policies that support families, caregivers, and early educators. Participants are reviewing shared successes, discussing ongoing challenges, and identifying priorities to strengthen collective advocacy efforts in the year ahead.

NAFCC remains committed to ensuring that family child care educators are represented in every national care conversation. Through partnerships like Care Can’t Wait, we continue to elevate their voices, center their experiences, and advance a more equitable care infrastructure for all.

NAFCC at the Urban League 2025 Empowerment & Policy Conference

Mischell Davis, NAFCC Leaders Shaping Leaders (LSL) Policy Program Regional Manager for Louisiana, attended the Urban League 2025 Empowerment & Policy Conference, themed “Unite”, connecting with leaders supporting family child care and early childhood leadership. She wrapped up the day at a Mixer hosted by the Early Childhood Leaders of Color Collaborative, alongside LSL LA participant Cierra Amar and team members Emelyn Acosta and Yanina Puerto, reconnecting with long-time friends from NOLAPS, LA Children’s Museum, and the Parent Leadership Collaborative.

NAFCC Engages with the Global HBCC Coalition at the United Nations

Erica Phillips, NAFCC Executive Director, attended a lunch with the Global Home-Based Child Care (HBCC) Coalition in New York City during the United Nations meeting.

The gathering provided an opportunity to connect with international leaders, share insights, and advance the visibility and impact of family child care worldwide. NAFCC’s participation underscores its commitment to elevating home-based child care and fostering global collaboration in early childhood education.

NAFCC Visits Precious Moments Childcare in Maryland

Eboni Delaney, Interim Director of Policy and Movement Building at NAFCC, recently visited Precious Moments Childcare in Rockville, Maryland, owned and operated by NAFCC Maryland State Representative Tiffany Jones.

Joined by family child care educator and former Policy Fellow Kenia Reinoso, the visit provided an opportunity to connect with educators and hear firsthand about their experiences providing care during challenging times. The conversation highlighted the strength, collaboration, and community that continue to define family child care nationwide.

LSL Louisiana at the Louisiana Department of Education Early Childhood Conference

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) hosted its annual **Early Childhood Conference – Early Foundations, Endless Possibilities! ** bringing together child care providers, teachers, and administrators from across the state for a weekend of learning, collaboration, and professional growth.

Mischell Davis, NAFCC Leaders Shaping Leaders (LSL) Policy Program Regional Manager for Louisiana, attended the conference, engaging with early childhood professionals and sharing resources to strengthen quality and leadership in family child care. The event offered valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, celebrate progress, and inspire continued commitment to ensuring that every child in Louisiana has access to high-quality early learning experiences.

Issued by Eboni Delaney, Interim Director of Policy and Movement Building

Since October 1, 2025, the federal government has been shut down following the expiration of appropriations for FY 2026. This impasse has direct consequences for families, which will escalate after more programs run out of funding November 1.

Without immediate action, families will see increases to their health care bills and millions of parents, babies and toddlers could lose health coverage, food assistance, early education, housing, and other crucial income supports.

Take Action on SNAP
SNAP Toolkit: Join the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) in pressuring the USDA to ensure full November SNAP benefits are not delayed.

What’s Happening with Head Start
There are about 180 programs that will cease receiving funds on Nov. 1. This missed funding will impact Head Start programs, which work with an estimated 65,000 young children in 40+ states across the nation.
Take Action on Head Start

What’s Happening with CACFP
CACFP is critical because it provides meals for children and is also a revenue stream for family child care programs. There is less information about CACFP; however, at this time, it does appear that USDA will continue to fund CACFP. All state agencies that administer CACFP should have the funds they need to process reimbursements for October expenses. Please notify us at policy@nafcc.org if you experience any disruptions in CACFP funding.

The ripple effect is clear: reduced resources for families lead to heightened strain on child care settings and increased risk of disruptions to other programs—at the very moment when children most need consistent care and nutrition support.

Call to Action

Congress and the Administration must act with urgency to protect children, families, and the early care workforce by continuing to fund critical programs like Head Start & SNAP.

Food security is foundational to healthy child development. When children arrive hungry, educators step in to fill the gap, often at their own expense. Sustaining SNAP ensures that care environments remain stable and that educators can continue to meet children’s needs.

Maintaining core safety-net programs, like Head Start & SNAP, during a political impasse is essential to the well-being of children, the stability of families, and the strength of local economies.

We were thrilled to feature our amazing Leaders Shaping Leaders at the National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during the Welcome Reception! Mischell Davis, NAFCC Leader’s Shaping Leaders (LSL) Policy Program Regional Manager of Louisiana, was there proudly representing our organization and connecting with parent leaders from across the country.

We joined the Help Me Grow National Forum in Hartford, CT, alongside leaders including Maria Amado, Yukiyo Iida, and Alison Wunder-Stahl. Deputy Commissioner Elena Truworthy and OEC staff also attended, strong supporters of NAFCC and our accreditation work.

The forum kicked off with a keynote at Dunkin’ Park, celebrating Connecticut’s recent $300 million investment in early childhood education and sparking important conversations for the field.

Behind the Scenes: NAFCC Staff at the 2025 Conference
Excitement built as NAFCC staff prepared for the 2025 NAFCC Conference! From setting up the venue to coordinating materials and ensuring every detail was ready, our team worked hard to create an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

What an unforgettable time we had in Dallas!

This year’s NAFCC Annual Conference — “Bigger, Better, Bolder: A New Legacy for FCC!” — was full of energy, connection, and inspiration. From powerful workshops and heartfelt conversations to dancing, learning, and celebrating each other, the spirit of family child care shined through every moment.

Highlights included our keynote speaker Sonia Manzano, over 100 engaging sessions, and plenty of time to recharge and reconnect with fellow educators from across the country. Thank you for being part of something truly special. Together, we’re building a bold new legacy — and this is just the beginning!

Conference Day 1

Conference Day 2

Conference Day 3

NAFCC Conference: Staff Snapshots & Smiles

August Advocacy is Action returned this year with incredible energy and impact. Throughout the month, family child care educators, allies, and community leaders came together to make bold, unified calls for change. From legislative visits to powerful spotlight stories, August became a resounding platform for amplifying the voices at the heart of early care.

Vantoinette Savage, Founder and CEO of the Family Child Care and Center Enrichment Foundation, along with members of her Foundation and Eboni Delaney, Interim Director of Policy and Movement Building at The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), met today in Washington, D.C., with a representative from the office of Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, PhD.

They engaged in powerful advocacy on behalf of family child care, highlighting its vital role in supporting children, families, and communities nationwide.

Francia Wisnewski, Director of Membership and Community Engagement visiting a FCC in DC.

She is also an accredited educator… Andrea and team, she spoke with pride about being accredited and supporter. She participates actively from many of our programs. It was great to tour her facility.

DC Family Child Care Association Hosts Successful 2nd Biennial Walk-A-Thon!

On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the DC Family Child Care Association proudly held its 2nd Biennial Walk for Family Child Care Walk-A-Thon, bringing together child care providers, families, advocates, and community supporters for a morning of unity, purpose, and fun.

Thank you to everyone who walked, donated, volunteered, and cheered us on. Your support helps elevate the voices of family child care providers and strengthens our mission.

Closing Out August: Advocacy in Action Month

We wrapped up August Advocacy in Action Month with an impactful day of CT advocacy, including an office visit to Senator Murphy. Our efforts were strengthened by the presence of partners from the union and AOK, making this a powerful day of collaboration and advocacy for early childhood education.

Dezire’e Mattocks, Director of Professional Development at the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) represented NAFCC at the National Convening on Children’s Racial Learning, held in Chicago during the month of May. The event brought together educators, researchers, and advocates to explore how young children learn about race and how adults can guide that learning with intention and care. Dezire’e participated in thought-provoking sessions and engaged with national leaders committed to equity in early childhood. NAFCC is proud to contribute to conversations that center race, identity, and the power of early learning.

Francia Wisnewski, Director of Membership and Community Engagement at the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) joined the McCormick Institute for Early Childhood’s 40th Birthday Celebration and Institute Launch Party during the month of May, in Schaumburg, IL 80’s style! Hosted during the Leadership Connections conference, the event honored four decades of McCormick Center impact with fun, festivities, and meaningful connections. Francia had the chance to reconnect in person with Business Series participant Alethea Ethinoff, celebrating the powerful partnerships that fuel growth in family child care. Cheers to 40 years of leadership, learning, and legacy in early childhood education!

Dezire’e Mattocks Francia Wisnewski and Jerletha McDonald represented NAFCC at the McCormick Center’s Leadership Connections Conference in Schaumburg, Illinois, in May 2025. The duo led powerful presentations and hosted an engaging exhibit table, connecting with early childhood leaders and sharing resources that elevate family child care. Their presence highlighted NAFCC’s commitment to advocacy, professional development, and collaboration across the field. Together, they brought visibility, voice, and vibrant energy to the national conversation on early learning. (Mrs. Erma Jackson, NAFCC Illinois State Representative, also pictured)

What an unforgettable night in New Orleans! The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) was thrilled to host the Light Up Louisiana Family Child Care Networking and Mixer, led by our very own Zakenya Perry Neely, Director of Partnerships, and Mischell Davis, Leader’s Shaping Leaders (LSL) Policy Program Regional Manager of Louisiana.

We were honored to be joined by Interim Executive Director Yesy Robles-Brown and Director of Development Lolita Jerido, as well as our amazing partners from BUILD Initiative, including Tameika Leslie and Danielle Fuentes. Their presence and support helped make the night a true celebration of the strength and spirit of Family Child Care.

This event wasn’t just a party—it was a powerful step toward building a stronger, more connected FCC community across Louisiana.
A huge thank you to all the incredible organizations who stood with us, including TrainingGrounds, Inc., Power Coalition, For Providers By Providers, TORSH, New Orleans Main Library, Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, Beloved Community, and so many others working daily to support early educators.

Let’s keep the momentum going!

NAFCC Quality Ambassador Training in Raleigh, NC

Jocelyn Jones, NAFCC Training Specialist, Rosa Rosa Valenzuela, Accreditation Manager of Operations, and members of the NAFCC Accreditation Council recently facilitated a powerful Quality Ambassador Training and Meet & Greet in Raleigh, NC during the month of May.

The event brought together new and prospective Quality Ambassadors for a dynamic day of networking, learning, and collaboration. Together, they explored how to elevate family child care and champion quality across the region.
We’re excited to see the impact these dedicated ambassadors will have as they support family child care educators on their accreditation journeys!

Congratulations to Vantoinette Savage, Founder and CEO of Family Child Care Center and Enrichment Foundation—an Affiliate of NAFCC—for successfully hosting their first annual conference in North Carolina!

We’re proud to share that Andrea Maldonado, our very own Director of Accreditation, participated in a powerful panel discussion highlighting the importance of family child care and the value of NAFCC Accreditation.

Cheers to lifting up quality, leadership, and community in family child care!

And the winner is….

Eboni Delaney, Assistant Director of Narrative and Movement Building at the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC)received the Pioneer Leadership Award for her Leadership Efforts in Pioneering the Texas Child Care Apprenticeship Program at Camp Fire in Fort Worth Texas!!

Zakenya Neely director of strategic partnerships and Mischell Davis, Louisiana Leaders Shaping Leaders Program Manager at The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) joined our amazing Louisiana partners, TrainingGrounds, Inc., for a lively and festive evening celebrating Family Child Care professionals. From vibrant conversations to building connections that matter, this event truly lit up the path for Home-Based Child Care professional development across the state!

A huge THANK YOU to our incredible hosts — Melanie Richardson, Christine Neely, and the entire Training Grounds team — for organizing such a dynamic and meaningful gathering, sponsored by BUILD Initiative.

We’re especially excited to share that Training Grounds gifted 6 NAFCC memberships to members of their Spanish Cohort and Alumni — an incredible step in growing and strengthening our network!

With 40+ passionate participants, this was more than a mixer — it was a movement.
Let’s keep the momentum going! Together, we’re Lighting Up Family Child Care and making our mark on the map!

Eboni Delaney, Assistant Director of Narrative and Movement Building at NAFCC, joined Christina and Quiara Brown of Overcomer Kids 3Es (Orlando, FL)—who are featured in the Emmy®-nominated documentary We Are Family Child Care—to host a screening and discussion at the Florida Family Child Care Home Association Conference. Their conversation highlighted the dedication, leadership, and community impact of family child care providers, reinforcing NAFCC’s commitment to amplifying their voices. The film’s recent nomination for a 2025 Regional Emmy® by Michigan NATAS added extra significance to the event.

Advocacy is Action is NAFCC’s annual campaign mobilizing family child care educators, allies, and advocates to drive real policy change during the Congressional recess. Beginning August 11, 2025, educators across the country will rise in unified action to protect and strengthen the future of family child care.

This year’s campaign comes at a turning point. Family child care continues to be squeezed out of the system, despite being the backbone of early care in rural, multilingual, and underserved communities. With nearly 100,000 FCC programs lost since 2012, and more closures looming, the stakes are higher than ever.

Many Right Ways to Advocate

Starting August 11, join the movement wherever you are:

1. Contact Your Members of Congress
   Use the NAFCC Action Center to find your Senators and Representatives.
2. Send a Letter
   Use our templates or write your own to share your story. Your experiences make the strongest case for change.
3. Mobilize Locally
   FCC educators and supporters will host congressional meetings in Virginia, California, Florida, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington, North Carolina and Tennessee.
4. Spread the Word
   Use social media, share with your networks, and amplify the campaign using #AdvocacyIsAction. Every voice matters.
5. Host a We Are Family Child Care Documentary Watch Party
   • Sample discussion questions – Coming soon!
   • Tips for engaging attendees – Coming soon!
6. Become a Member
   • Stay connected with your peers
   • Help grow the movement by joining NAFCC today
7. Text to Give
   • Support NAFCC’s ongoing advocacy work with a monetary contribution
   • Every gift helps protect and advance the future of family child care
   • Details coming soon.
8. Visit Our Policy Website
   Explore research and data, advocacy tools, policy bulletins, and more to support your work and stay informed. Our policy website is your hub for resources that strengthen family child care advocacy.

This Is About Survival and Justice

If Congress fails to act, more FCC programs will disappear. More families will lose access to care. And the most flexible, community-based, culturally rooted form of early education will edge closer to extinction.

But if we act together—loudly, clearly, and persistently—we can change the future.

Join us beginning August 11, 2025. Advocacy is Action, and we won’t be ignored.

Educator Profiles

In this edition of On the Move, we’re proud to share highlights from a busy and impactful March and April at NAFCC. From launching our first-ever Regional Conference in Houston to powerful moments of advocacy at state capitols in Texas and Indiana, our team has been on the ground building momentum for family child care. We’ve connected with educators and partners at conferences across the country — from New Orleans to Pennsylvania to Stanford — lifting up voices, sharing resources, and shaping policy conversations. In the midst of all the travel, our staff came together in New York City for our annual retreat — a valuable time to reflect, strategize, and strengthen our shared commitment to this work. Whether organizing community events, supporting new ambassadors, or speaking on national panels, NAFCC remains deeply dedicated to elevating family child care in every space we enter.

Advocacy Day at the Texas State Capitol
In March, NAFCC Texas State Representatives gathered at the Texas State Capitol for a powerful day of advocacy. Jerletha McDonald, founder and CEO of ADFW Family Child Care Network and affiliate of NAFCC, delivered a compelling speech in support of family child care. The photos from the day capture the energy and determination of educators working together to push for policies that support and uplift their profession. Jacquline Shaw & Tamitha Blackmon, NAFCC Texas State Reps were also in attendance.

Empowered Leadership: Nebraska State Rep. Takes on NAFCC Ambassador Role

This is a story of growth and leadership. For the first time, NAFCC Nebraska State Representative Elizabeth Arnold stepped up as a NAFCC ambassador at the Empowerment for Success for Early Childhood Educators conference. This is leadership in action — empowering others, sharing knowledge, and stepping into new opportunities. Jerletha McDonald, founder and CEO of ADFW Family Child Care Network and affiliate of NAFCC was the keynote speaker at this conference.

NAFCC at REST 2025: Building Community and Connection in New Orleans


At the end of April, NAFCC Partnerships Director Zakenya Neely traveled to New Orleans for the REST 2025 Conference, hosted by the Early Childhood Leaders of Color Collaborative. REST — Restoration, Enlightenment, Solidarity, and Transformation — creates space for early childhood leaders of color to connect, reflect, and renew. While there, Zakenya connected with inspiring leaders including Demetra Brown from Promise Venture Studio and Melanie from Training Grounds, two New Orleans-based organizations leading powerful work in their communities.

Building Connections Over Breakfast in Houston
During the Houston Regional Conference, Lolita Jerido, NAFCC’s Director of Development, organized a powerful breakfast that brought together a packed room of funders, Texas Workforce Commission representatives, and community partners. The event created space for meaningful dialogue and shared commitment to family child care. A highlight of the morning: guest speaker Dessie Townes delivered an inspiring message that energized the room and set the tone for the day.

NAFCC Hosts First Regional Conference in Houston

In March, NAFCC hosted its first-ever Regional Conference in Houston, Texas! The event brought together family child care professionals, advocates, and partners for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration — all centered around strengthening the FCC community in the region.

NAFCC Leaders and Educators Advocate on Capitol Hill

Erica Phillips, Executive Director of NAFCC, and Ronald Jarrett, Director of Policy, joined NAFCC State Representatives Tiffany Taylor (NY) and Cynthia Davis (D.C.), along with dedicated FCC educators Alethea Etinoff (D.C.) and Shemik Dunn Sellars (VA), for a powerful day of advocacy in Washington, D.C.

United in purpose, the group elevated the voices of family child care educators—calling for fair policies, increased recognition, and the critical support needed to sustain this essential workforce.

NAFCC at RAPID at 5: Elevating Family Child Care
Yesy Robles-Brown, Chief of Staff at NAFCC, attended the Bearing Witness: RAPID at 5 event at Stanford University. She participated in a panel titled “The Community System: Building Systems of Care for Young Children,” where she emphasized the essential role of family child care in creating strong, equitable early childhood systems.

Celebrating Community and Advocacy in Connecticut

Francia Wisnewski, NAFCC Director of Membership and Community Engagement, joined Connecticut State Rep and Affiliate Leader María Amado, along with Melvette Hill — NPLI leader and Executive Director of the Connecticut General Assembly’s Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity — at the Hartford Foundation Centennial Celebration.

The event highlighted powerful community partnerships and advocacy in action. María also connected with Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam to elevate the role of family child care in local policy. Through support from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, María received funding to provide training and coaching for FCC educators — a win for children, families, and providers across the state.

NAFCC Quality Ambassador Training Meet & Greet – Raleigh, NC

In April NAFCC hosted the Quality Ambassador Training Meet & Greet in Raleigh, NC. The event brought together new and prospective Quality Ambassadors for a day of networking, learning, and collaboration as they embarked on a journey to support and elevate family child care across the region.

NAFCC Staff Retreat in New York City

In April, the NAFCC team gathered in New York City for our annual staff retreat — a time to reconnect, reflect, and refocus. From strategy sessions to team-building moments, the retreat energized our work and deepened our commitment to supporting family child care nationwide.

NAFCC at the NTI Conference in Tampa, Florida

NAFCC was in the building at the NTI Conference in Tampa! We were proud to exhibit and participate in a national panel on how Family Child Care (FCC) programs support Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). Dezire’e Mattocks, NAFCC’s Director of Professional Development, represented the organization and connected with partners around TPOT, TPITOS, and the Pyramid Model.

While there, Dezire’e caught up with Lynn Lubecki from New York — a former FCC educator who now holds a doctorate and teaches future educators. Lynn shared how her experience in FCC still shapes her approach to teaching today. A powerful reminder of the lasting impact of family child care!

NAFCC at the OCDEL Conference in Pennsylvania

NAFCC was on the ground in Pennsylvania as State Representative, Minnette Taylor attended the OCDEL Conference, sharing resources and engaging attendees at the NAFCC info table. Her presence helped spotlight the impact of family child care in early learning.

Leadership in Action: Leaders Shaping Leaders at Indiana’s ECE Day at the Statehouse


Members of NAFCC’s Leaders Shaping Leaders (LSL) Cohort 4 participated in Indiana’s Early Childhood Education Day at the Statehouse, joining statewide advocates to elevate the voices of early childhood educators and the families they serve.

Cynthia Vaughn, Director/Owner of Cindy’s Center for Young Learners and an LSL Cohort 4 member, had a powerful conversation with Governor Mike Braun about the crippling impact of wage disparities caused by structural issues in Indiana’s CCDF program. They also discussed the serious consequences families face when funding is delayed, reduced, or eliminated. It was a day of bold advocacy and leadership in action.

In honor of Provider Appreciation Day, NAFCC is proud to celebrate the leadership and legacy of Annette Eberhart, a nationally Accredited Educator and Chair of the NAFCC Accreditation Council. Her powerful story is featured in the Summer 2025 issue of Exchange Magazine, highlighting her journey as an educator, entrepreneur, mother, grandmother, and community leader.

Annette’s story reflects the dedication and excellence of FCC educators nationwide- and the transformational impact they have on children, families, and communities.

Special Offer: In celebration of this feature, Exchange Press is offering our NAFCC community a 50% discount on membership!

Use code FRIEND50 at checkout.

Happy Provider Appreciation Day from all of us at NAFCC!

In this edition of “On the Move,” we’re excited to spotlight the impactful work and milestones achieved by the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) in November and December. From engaging with city leaders at national conferences to participating in key panels shaping early childhood policy, our members and staff have been at the forefront of advocacy and collaboration. These highlights reflect NAFCC’s continued dedication to elevating family child care educators, fostering meaningful connections, and driving quality care across the nation.

Building Connections Through FCC Meet-Ups

NAFCC hosted a Meet-Up in Florida, where Francia Wisnewski, M.Ed., NAFCC’s Director of Membership, collaborated with the Florida Family Child Care Home Association, Inc., to create a vibrant space for collaboration and community-building. The event brought together Family Child Care Educators to network, share ideas, and connect with early childhood education agencies dedicated to supporting their work. These gatherings highlight NAFCC’s dedication to empowering educators and strengthening partnerships that uplift family child care nationwide.

Reaching out to our NAFCC community is the heartbeat of our organization. In Anaheim, CA, NAFCC hosted a vibrant Meet and Greet that brought together Family Child Care Educators for an evening of networking and professional growth. Led by Dezire’e Mattocks, Ed.S., NAFCC’s Director of Professional Development, and supported by Dr. Ellaine Miller, NAFCC Board President, Yessika Magdeleno, NAFCC Board Member, and Tessie Ragan, NAFCC State Representative, the event fostered meaningful connections and celebrated the power of collaboration.

Proudly sponsored by Walden University, this gathering emphasized NAFCC’s dedication to providing resources and opportunities that empower educators to enhance their impact in early childhood education. Together, we exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and strengthened the collective capacity of the family child care community.

Inspiring Excellence in Family Child Care

On Saturday, November 2, the Maryland State Family Child Care Association (MSFCCA) hosted its 31st Annual Conference in Columbia, Maryland, under the theme “Child Care Advancement Network Building Educators (CCANBE).” This theme celebrated the vibrant journey of learning, growth, and community in the field of family child care.

NAFCC Executive Director Erica Phillips delivered a powerful keynote address, “Unlocking Your Path to Excellence,” inspiring attendees with actionable strategies for professional growth and achieving excellence in family child care. Her keynote highlighted NAFCC’s dedication to empowering educators and advancing the field through impactful leadership, advocacy, and professional development. This event exemplified the collective commitment to elevating family child care and supporting educators on their journey to excellence.

Sparking Innovation for Family Child Care

The NAFCC Leadership Team recently gathered in Massachusetts for a dynamic session of strategic planning and fellowship. This retreat provided an opportunity to reflect on the evolving needs of Family Child Care Educators and brainstorm innovative ways to support their work. From enhancing professional development resources to advocating for increased investments in the childcare sector, the team laid the groundwork for impactful initiatives that will empower educators and strengthen the field nationwide.

National League of Cities Conference Presentation

Erica Phillips had the honor of presenting on home-based family child care at the National League of Cities conference, engaging with city leaders from across the country. The National League of Cities (NLC) is an organization comprised of city, town and village leaders that are focused on improving the quality of life for their current and future constituents. During her presentation, Erica elevated the power of family child care to city level leaders from across the country. This critical conversation highlighted the essential role of family child care in supporting communities and ensuring equitable access to quality child care nationwide.

Child Care Innovation Summit Panelist

NAFCC participated in a distinguished panel at the Child Care Innovation Summit, hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and EPIC. Joined by the Council for Professional Recognition, NAEYC, Third Bloom Consulting, and Urban Sprouts, they explored innovative solutions to advance child care and elevate the family child care profession.

Prenatal to Three Conference in Denver

At the Prenatal to Three conference, themed “Great Progress, Great Opportunities,” NAFCC presented alongside Sheryl Hutzenbiler from the MT Family Child Care Network and Deetra Stewart from the Nevada FCC Association. Together, we underscored the value of home-based family child care in fostering early childhood development and strengthening families.

California Visit

Yesy Robles-Brown recently attended a powerful convening in Palm Springs, California, bringing together cross-sector leaders dedicated to enhancing support for children, families, and child care educators. The gathering focused on forming a collaborative network to amplify the voices of these key stakeholders and strengthen resources for child care. This impactful event shows the importance of collective action in shaping a brighter future for families and educators.

Elevating Family Child Care: Advocacy and Collaboration at NAEYC

Dezire’e Mattocks, Ed.S., Director of Professional Development at NAFCC, joined Tessie Ragan, Family Child Care Educator and Consultant at Perfect Start Learning, and Yessika Magdaleno, Founder of the Child Care Business Institute, at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) conference in Anaheim, California. Together, they led a session titled “Realistic Expectations and Partnering with Family Child Care Community Educators,” offering practical strategies in advocacy, public policy, and collaboration. Their expertise highlighted the critical role of family child care educators and provided actionable insights to strengthen partnerships within the early childhood education community.

Welcome to the NAFCC Family

We are thrilled to announce the newest members of our team! Godfred Brobbey has joined our Accreditation team, BriAnne Moline is supporting Professional Development, Lolita Jerido serves as our Director of Development, Ronald Jarrett has joined the Policy team, and Lori Poag is our new Communications Manager. Their collective expertise and passion will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission of supporting family child care educators nationwide. Each brings a unique perspective and a deep commitment to excellence in their respective areas of focus.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Godfred, BriAnne, Lolita, Ronald, and Lori as they embark on this exciting journey with NAFCC! Together, we look forward to driving meaningful impact in the family child care community. Learn more: https://nafcc.org/about-us/

As the holidays approach, we are reminded of the true spirit of giving. While we all take time to reflect on our blessings, we must also recognize the incredible impact of the gifts we give—not just during the season but all year long. This Giving Tuesday and every Tuesday, we invite you to join us in making a powerful difference for children, families, and the family child care educators who serve them.

At the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), we believe that every child deserves a bright future, and every family deserves a safe, nurturing environment to help their child grow and thrive. But behind the love and support these children receive are the unsung heroes—family child care educators.

Family Child Care plays a critical role in America’s broader early childhood education system. Family child care educators across the nation serve more than 12 million children. Family child care homes are often the most accessible and flexible option for families, particularly those in rural or underserved communities.

Family child care educators are more than just caregivers. They are a child’s first teacher, mentor, and protector. These educators provide children with a safe, nurturing environment where they receive individualized attention and help build the foundation of a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional skills and academic growth they need to succeed in school and beyond. And they do it all with dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of every child in their care.

Family child care educators family child care educators face increasingly complex challenges, and are often the most underappreciated, overworked, and underfunded individuals in our education system. Many work long hours, often without the recognition they deserve, and face financial strain and a lack of resources. This disparity is compounded by recent policy shifts that have not always prioritized the needs of family child care educators. For example, while many states have begun to increase funding for early childhood education programs, family child care has often been left out of these policy discussions. Nearly 67% of early care and education providers were left without the same relief funding during the COVID-19 pandemic as other sectors of the economy, despite being essential in serving families during the crisis. At the NAFCC, we believe that family child care educators deserve better. Our mission is to support these dedicated professionals and small business owners through advocacy, professional development, and resources that help them continue providing high-quality care. We are committed to addressing the systemic barriers that limit the success of family child care educators, ensuring they have the recognition, resources, and policies in place to thrive.

But we can’t accomplish this goal without your help. We need you Now more than Ever.
On this Giving Tuesday, we invite you to support the heart of early childhood education by donating to NAFCC. Whether it’s $10, $50, $100, or more, your gift to the NAFCC can have a profound impact and directly support the work we do to advocate for, train, and empower family child care educators.

When you give, you’re not just making a donation—you’re investing in the future of our children, the strength of our families, and the well-being of the communities we live in, building a powerful community for change.

Every child who experiences compassionate, high-quality care today is building a brighter tomorrow. Every family supported by a skilled, dedicated educator is creating a foundation for future success. Every educator who receives your support can continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of children, helping them grow up to be confident, compassionate individuals ready to make their own mark on the world.

This Giving Tuesday, let’s give a gift that keeps on giving—one that empowers our educators, nurtures our children, and strengthens our communities.

Donate now and be a part of something bigger. Together, we can create a brighter future, one child at a time. Let’s make this Giving Tuesday one to remember.

Sign up for our listserv to stay connected, join NAFCC as a member to access valuable resources, and take action in advocacy efforts to amplify the voices of FCC educators nationwide.