Starting a local Child Care Professional Group

There are many reasons why you may wish to start a local child care professional group or organization. You will have an opportunity to network and share with others in a similar situation as you are. You may enjoy the opportunity to share ideas and talk with other adults who can relate to your daily challenges and rewards caring for children. Belonging to a professional organization may advance your own career and help you develop new skills such as public speaking or fundraising. Your first step should be to check for current child care groups in your area.. These national organizations have local affiliates that you may be able to join or start your own: National Association for Family Child Care,---National Association for the Education of Young Children. And here are other local and state agencies and organizations

How to Find Members

• Advertise where daycare providers advertise their services
• Contact your local licensing office and ask for their listing of licensed providers.
• Contact your local Cooperative Extension
• Contact your local Resources and Referral Agency
• Members can distribute flyers at local events

Places Where You Could Meet

• Local non-profit family agency
• Library
• Member's center or home

What to do at Your Meetings

• Arrange for trainings
• Advocacy activities
• Have each member bring and idea or activity to share
• Invite guest speakers including local licensing rep or food program agent
• Organize a toy swap
• Have a pampering session with guest manicurists or massage therapists

Member Communication Ideas

• Newsletters
• Website
• Email list

Contributors thanks to:

Tammy Fines from the Southeastern Oklahoma Childcare Association

Roxie from Williamson County Home Day Care Association.