Engaging Family Child Care in QRIS
Children are in out-of-home care settings more than ever, as their parents are working due to necessity or choice. The increased need for care is exacerbated by the barriers families face in finding quality care; in some instances, what is available or affordable to a family is not of the quality that we know can positively impact child development and learning. family child care in state systems and quality support efforts. This report explores why the integration of family child care in QRIS is critical, outlines several integration considerations and strategies, and provides state examples.
Explore More
Leading an Early Childhood Team Through the Quality Improvement Process
Article October 7, 2026
Published in Young Children, this 2024 article provides an operational guide for aligning state QIS requirements with broader national standards, quality grants, and staff incentives.
Much-Needed Changes in Child Care Quality Rating and Improvement Systems Should Promote Equity
Blog October 7, 2026
Blog authors Gina Adams and Danielle Ewen outline systemic flaws in traditional models. This 2024 blog details how traditional QRIS frameworks often inadequately support parents, underinvest in actual center improvement, and inadvertently exacerbate funding inequalities among diverse childcare providers.
Four Trends in Early Care and Education Quality Rating and Improvement Systems
Fact Sheet October 7, 2026
This 2024 brief evaluates Parent Aware (Minnesota's system) and synthesizes interviews across six states (Delaware, Louisiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington). It identifies critical, modern pathways for administrators looking to overhaul and redesign state frameworks.