Reader Comments

Addressing some of the questions asked...

Are more family child care (FCC) providers employing staff?
I do believe that more FCC providers are employing staff due to the increased amount of FCC providers taking part in professional development opportunities and/or community meetings during the day. I also have personally received many questions from FCC providers regarding employees. I encourage FCC providers to research what it means to have an employee. It is very important to make sure that this aspect of a FCC business is handled correctly. The most frequently asked question I get is, What is the difference between an employee and an independent contractor? I refer FCC providers to Tom Copeland who has written many books on the topic of FCC businesses. He also has authored a proposal adopted by the IRS that has to do with paperwork for providers who hire part-time employees.

Do family child care providers have increased access to higher education courses?
In general there is an increased access to higher education courses for FCC providers. This has come about through the field of early care and education in general raising the bar for staff requirements. This in turn has created a demand from the higher education institutions to offer coursework. Today, a degree in Early Childhood Education exists. I encourage FCC providers to pursue a higher education. There are many avenues of access as well. From night classes, weekend classes and online opportunities...it is worth it. The children and families served as well as the providers themselves are worth it.

The celebratory 200 issue is beautiful! The children's artwork is fantastic. You can sense the wonder and vitality in every piece of art. It must have been a joy to select the images and compose the layouts – it certainly shows!

Wow — it looks great! I am in love with the new design — so creative and much change. Good, good work to all. Congratulations.

It's wonderful!
I cannot wait to hold it in my hands :)

Looks great. I am excited to see all the wonderful educators who authored the various pieces — and very happy to be in their company. Am going to read toute suite!

I love the 200th! WOW!!!!! When will that hit the streets?

The entire issue is spectacular and beautiful!! Kudos

You're right it's fantastic! Congratulations to Exchange.

Love it. You are amazing and I am so grateful to play a small part of a tremendous success and contribution to the field. Love the cover.