Child Care Resource & Referral Service
The CCR&R provides free training and technical assistance to childcare providers across the state to improve the quality of child care for all children
- Agency
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 1-423-698-8528
- Application Period
- Income Limit
The CCR&R provides free training and technical assistance to childcare providers across the state to improve the quality of child care for all children.
The CCR&R provides free training and technical assistance to childcare providers across the state to improve the quality of child care for all children.
Images & PDFs
Pre-service Core Training for Workers
A facilitator guide from the Tennessee Alliance for Children and Families designed to provide pre-service training for workers in child care services. The guide outlines core practices for effective child and family engagement and service delivery.
View Full ImageResource Guide: Starting and Operating a Child Care Business
A resource guide to assist individuals in starting and operating a child care business, with links to additional resources and support networks.
View Full ImageStarting and Operating a Child Care Business
A resource guide offering insights into establishing a child care business, including essential steps and considerations. It provides supportive information on creating quality child care services.
View Full ImageTennessee Health Link: Provider Criteria
A chart outlining identification criteria for accessing behavioral health services in Tennessee, focused on diagnostic and functional needs.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Navigating the Cost of Living: Child Care Assistance as a Vital Resource
5/15/2021 | Coverage: national
This research paper highlights the relationship between rising costs of living and the increasing necessity for child care assistance programs, along with the effects of these programs on reducing societal stigma.
Source: National Center for Children in Poverty
Coverage Area: national
Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral Program: Supporting Families and Communities
4/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report discusses how the Child Care Resource and Referral Program in Tennessee helps families find affordable childcare options, which in turn supports their economic stability and overall community health.
Source: Tennessee Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
The Economic Impact of Child Care Assistance in Tennessee
9/10/2021 | Coverage: state
This policy brief examines the economic benefits of child care assistance programs in Tennessee, highlighting how they alleviate financial burdens for low-income families, especially amidst rising living costs.
Source: Tennessee Economic Development Agency
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Reauthorization
6/15/2021Reauthorization of the CCDF, which provided additional funding and support for child care services.
Tennessee's Early Childhood Education Program Expansion
4/1/2014Expansion of the Early Childhood Education Program, increasing access to pre-K programs for low-income families.
Tennessee Child Care Initiative
7/1/2006A state-led initiative aimed at increasing the quality of child care services in Tennessee through training and resources.
Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG)
10/1/1990The CCDBG was enacted to provide federal funding for child care, allowing states to create their own child care programs.
Establishment of the Child Care Resource & Referral Network
1/1/1989The Child Care Resource & Referral Service was officially established in Tennessee to provide resources and support for child care providers and families.
FAQ
Finding quality child care involves several steps. The Child Care Resource & Referral Service can assist you in locating licensed child care providers in your area, as well as providing resources to evaluate the quality of care offered. Here are some helpful steps to follow when searching for child care.
Use this checklist to ensure you're considering all important aspects when searching for quality child care:
- Verify that the facility is licensed and has good standing with the state.
- Visit the child care facility to observe the environment and interactions.
- Ask about staff qualifications and training.
- Check for age-appropriate activities and materials.
- Read reviews or seek recommendations from other parents.
By following this checklist, you can feel more confident in your decision-making process for child care.
Here are some action items to take as you begin your search for child care:
- Contact the Child Care Resource & Referral Service for a list of providers.
- Schedule visits to your top choices.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask during your visits.
- Review the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) eligibility for financial assistance.
- Make your selection and complete any necessary enrollment paperwork.
These action items will help guide you through the process of finding the right child care for your family.
This information is intended to assist parents in their search for child care and is not a substitute for professional advice.
In Tennessee, several financial assistance options are available for families seeking child care support. The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) provides assistance to eligible families to help pay for child care costs, enabling parents to work or attend school. Additional programs may include sliding scale fees based on income, and certain programs targeted for specific demographics, such as single parents or low-income families.
The Child Care Resource & Referral Service in Tennessee offers a variety of services designed to assist parents and child care providers. For parents, the service provides information on locating quality child care, understanding child development, and accessing financial assistance programs. For providers, the service offers training opportunities, regulatory information, and resources for improving the quality of care.
Reference: https://www.tn.gov/dcs/child-care-resource-and-referral.html
