It is important to realize that Puerto Rico is a commonwealth, which makes Puerto Ricans United States citizens. Adherence to traditional values and beliefs varies in degree. Even a modern Hispanic family differs considerably from today's average family. The traditional role of manhood and womanhood in Hispanic culture also plays a role in the success of training programs. The Hispanic family is often patriarchal, with male heads of the house fulfilling a strong authoritarian role.
Many Hispanic males prefer that their wives stay home with the children.
Becoming a family day care provider allows these women the opportunity to bring in some income for the family without compromising the male's role as the breadwinner, thus possibly helping to maintain the home's cultural harmony. The importance of culture in child development is widely recognized in the human services field. The Hispanic family is the most important vehicle for the transmission of values and beliefs. Research emphasizes that successful childcare for Hispanic children should focus on private homes rather than institutions. Within the traditional Hispanic culture, the function of child care has remained in the family.