They become accredited not because they, personally, need accreditation, but because the profession needs them to become accredited. Gives Providers a More Concrete Definition of Quality in Family Child Care . While many providers have a theoretical understanding of quality child care, some are not sure exactly what quality looks like. One provider says that accreditation gave her the tools she needs to do her job better. Providers like that accreditation describes concrete components of quality that are specific to family child care, not a child care center.
Accreditation is a ruler against which providers can measure themselves.
Keeps Providers Excited About Their Work . Accreditation may help providers stay in the field longer. Encourages Providers to Pursue Ongoing Training and Support . The more training with which they have good experiences, the more training they want to pursue. If accredited providers are not already active in their local associations, they are likely to join or start one, thus becoming part of a support network and feeling less isolated.