The child care & early education glossary defines terms used to describe aspects of child care and early education practice and policy; the research glossary defines terms used in conducting social science and policy research, for example those describing methods, measurements, statistical procedures, and other aspects of research.
Child Care Availability
Refers to whether Quality child care is accessible and available to families at a reasonable cost and using reasonable effort. See related: Child Care Access.
Child Care Availability
Refers to whether Quality child care is accessible and available to families at a reasonable cost and using reasonable effort. See related: Child Care Access.
Child Care Bureau
See Office of Child Care.
Child Care Desert
A geographical area where there is an inadequate supply of high Quality, affordable, and accessible child care options.
Child Care Health Consultants (CCHC)
Licensed health professionals with education and experience in child and community health as well as in early care and education. CCHCs have knowledge of resources and regulations and are typically helpful in linking health resources with child care facilities. See related: Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation.
Child Care Provider
An organization or individual that provides early care and education services.
Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (CCR&R)
Local and statewide entities, usually funded by CCDF, that provide a range of services to the community, such as guidance and referrals to parents seeking child care; professional development and trainings for early childhood professionals; as well as parenting and other educational resources for families. Some CCR&R agencies also administer child care Subsidies.
Child Care Slots
The number of openings that a child care setting has available as dictated by its Licensed Capacity. Child care slots may be filled or unfilled.
Child Care Subsidy
A type of Child Care Assistance primarily funded by the federal CCDF program.
Child Care Supply and Demand
Refers to the total number of Child Care Slots available in a given area relative to the aggregate of families' needs and preferences for child care.