Who are Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Providers?
FFN providers are home-based caregivers working outside of the formal child care system. They are unlicensed or license-exempt and provide care to the children of a family member, friend, and/or neighbor. FFN care is a common form of child care in the U.S. and is the leading source of care for infants and toddlers nationwide.
The Benefits of FFN Care
FFN providers are typically known by the family that needs care, which builds in a level of trust that is especially important for families seeking infant and toddler care. There is also the possibility that FFN providers can care for a child in a way that aligns with the family’s culture and language. In addition, these caregivers are often available for non-traditional hours of care, including overnight support. They became more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic, when more formal child care settings closed or limited enrollment to essential workers.
Resources
National Program for Playground Safety
Megan's Law- Search for Local Sex Offenders
School Integrated Pest Management Program
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Lead Program
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Resource Center for Health and Safety In Child Care and Early Education
Child and Adult Care Food Program
Project SPARK (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids)
Department of Agriculture, Team Nutrition
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Information Center
How to Become Licensed
Family Child Care Home Process for Licensure
Family Child Care Home Application Packet
Pre-Licensing Checklist for Family Child Care Homes
Family Child Care Homes Pre-Licensing Workshop Schedule and Registration (Winter / Spring 2025)