Texas Family Child Care Providers: Your Network of Support is Here!
A statewide network designed specifically for family child care business success
After years of working mostly in isolation and trying to figure out business challenges alone, Texas now has something providers have been waiting for – a comprehensive Family Child Care Network (FCCN) created specifically to help them thrive.
What is the Texas Family Child Care Network?
The Texas FCCN, financed by Texas Workforce Commission and operated by Civitas Strategies in partnership with Shine Early Learning and United Ways of Texas, is a FREE statewide support system designed exclusively for family child care providers. Whether you're licensed, registered, listed, or considering starting your FCC business, this network offers targeted resources for your success.
Real Support for Real Challenges
Running a family child care business isn't like any other small business. You face unique challenges that center-based programs simply don't understand:
Managing business finances while simultaneously providing direct child care
Operating in professional isolation with limited peer support
Navigating complex tax regulations specific to home-based businesses
Balancing high-quality care delivery with business sustainability
Understanding licensing and registration requirements and compliance
The Texas FCCN doesn't just acknowledge these challenges – it addresses every single one through evidence-based, practical support services.
What’s Available to You?
Professional Development Micro-Learning Tracks
The network offers focused, time-efficient group coaching sessions on essential topics:
Financial Management – Master cash flow and budgeting fundamentals
Tax Strategy – Access professional-level tax education and planning
Marketing & Enrollment – Maintain consistent enrollment through effective outreach
Infant/Toddler Care Expansion – Develop this high-demand service area
Technology Integration – Streamline operations through appropriate technology use
Each track is four one-hour sessions with no more than seven providers, so you get real attention and build genuine relationships with peers who understand your challenges.
One-On-One Expert Coaching
Sometimes you need personalized help with specific situations:
Complex tax planning and compliance
Employment law and human resources
Retirement and financial planning
Parent communication and conflict resolution
Zoning and homeowner association navigation
And more
Start-Up Mini-Grants
The network also offers mini-grants of up to $15,000 for qualifying providers. These grant funds can be used to support:
Health and safety improvements (safety equipment, childproofing, emergency supplies)
Educational materials and curriculum resources
Program enhancement equipment and supplies
Background check fees and licensing application costs
Application process includes:
Comprehensive proposal with intended use of funds
Objective review using TWC-approved criteria
Priority consideration for providers in child care deserts and those expanding infant/toddler or non-traditional hour care
Six-month implementation period with structured reporting requirements
Recipients of the mini-grants will commit to participating in Child Care Services (CCS) once licensed and engaging in program evaluation activities.
Shared Services Platform
Select network members, based on qualification, can access cost-saving services including:
Group insurance rates negotiated specifically for FCC providers – potentially saving hundreds annually
Free Child Care Management System (your choice of Brightwheel or Playground) for one full year
Telehealth coverage for you and your family
Employee Assistance Program with legal and financial consultation
Professional tax education that has saved other providers an average of $7,600
Additionally, select network members, based on qualification, can also receive various technology support services, such as:
Complimentary tablets for qualifying providers
Technical setup and training support
Integration guidance for business management tools
Professional Networking and Community Opportunities
No more working in isolation. Connect with other providers through:
Monthly regional "Coffee & Conversations" meetings
Bi-weekly statewide virtual professional development events
Provider advisory board participation opportunities (click here for the application if you’re interested in directly influence statewide initiatives)
24/7 access to professional resource library
Specialized Support for Underserved Markets
The network provides extra support for providers addressing Texas's most pressing child care needs:
Child Care Desert Operations – Get specialized help with recruitment, long-distance marketing, and combating the professional isolation that comes with serving rural or underserved areas.
Infant/Toddler Care – Receive business development guidance for expanding this essential, in-demand service that communities desperately need.
Non-Traditional Hour Care – Learn employer partnership development and operational management for evening, weekend, and overnight care.
Enrollment Process
Step 1: Join the email notification list to stay informed about network launch and opportunities.
English speakers: Register here →
Spanish speakers: Regístrese aquí →
Step 2: Complete the comprehensive needs assessment (about 20 minutes) when registration opens.
Step 3: Receive personalized service recommendations.
Step 4: Choose your engagement level and start accessing services immediately.
Why This Matters Right Now
The early childhood education landscape is changing rapidly. Government funding, parent expectations, and regulatory requirements continue to evolve. Providers who invest in professional development and business skills now will not only survive these changes - they'll thrive.
This network enables you to:
Deliver consistently high-quality care that families value
Earn appropriate compensation for your professional expertise
Build genuine long-term financial security
Maintain healthy boundaries between work and personal life
Feel confident about your business operations and future
The Bottom Line
Research proves that the most successful family child care providers are those who continuously invest in business education and maintain strong professional networks. The Texas FCCN removes every traditional barrier to accessing both.
This isn't a short-term program that will disappear in a year. This represents a substantial, multi-year commitment to transforming how family child care businesses operate and succeed in Texas.
The providers who get involved early will benefit the most and help shape how the network develops.
Ready to Join?
Join our professional network today to receive priority access to services and program updates:
English Registration: https://wkf.ms/3YbjC8t
Registro en Español: https://wkf.ms/4ipGuIo
This project is supported by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) of the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $5,378,809 with 100 percent funded by ACF/HHS.