Family Child Care

Registration Guidance

Welcome to Family Child Care (FCC), where your child will learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment. FCC Providers are highly trained and regulated, including thorough background checks and monthly inspections. FCC providers create a sense of belonging for families and support them in developing their child(ren)’s positive self-worth. We’re excited to be part of your community.

Registration is quick and easy—simply follow the steps below.

1. Go to MilitaryChildCare.com.
   • Set up an account if you don’t already have one.
   • Add your child’s information and request care at your installation.
      
2. Join the Waitlist
   • If space is not immediately available, your child will be placed on a waitlist.
   • You will receive an offer via email to inform you when a spot opens up.
   • If you are placed on a waitlist you have the option of contacting MCCYN which provides fee assistance to offset the costs of community-based care.
      
3. Accept the Offer
   • Once you receive an offer, follow the instructions to accept it within the given timeframe.
   • If you don't respond within the timeframe, the offer is removed, but you may request reactivation with supporting details if eligible.
      
4. Complete the Registration Process
   • After accepting the offer, you will receive forms to complete.
   • Provide necessary documents, such as proof of eligibility, immunization records, and emergency contacts.
      
5. Attend Parent Orientation
   • You will be required to attend an orientation to review program policies and expectations.
      
6. Start Care
   • Once all paperwork is submitted and fees are processed, your child can begin attending the program.

If you need help getting started please contact our Resource and Referral office. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.

Eligibility

Family Child Care (FCC) provides a safe, enriching environment for children while supporting the unique needs of military families. We proudly serve those who serve by offering quality care that fosters learning, resilience, and connection. FCC providers establish their own schedules and may provide care outside standard work hours.

Family Child Care is available to children of:

• Active-duty Service Members
• DoD Civilian Employees
• Reservists
• DoD contractors.

Children:

• Must be between the ages of 6 weeks to 12 years old.

Enrollment:

• Enrollment is guided by DoD priorities. Supplanting does not apply to FCC. To secure a spot, families are encouraged to register early, as availability may vary depending on demand.

Department of Defense Polocies:

• DoDI 6060.02
• MCO 1710.30A

For more information on eligibility, priority placement, and registration requirements, please contact our Resource and Referral office.

MilitaryChildCare.com

MilitaryChildCare.com makes it easy to find and request Family Child Care (FCC), giving you peace of mind knowing your child is in a safe and supportive environment.

With just one online account, you can explore program options, submit a request, and manage your childcare needs from anywhere. Spaces are assigned based on DoD priority placement, so registering early ensures you have the best chance of securing care when you need it.

Start today by visiting MilitaryChildCare.com.

I Need Child Care

Family Child Care is a great child care choice offered right in your community. Certified providers care for small groups of children in their own homes, either on the installation or nearby. Think of it as quality child care in a comfortable, home-like setting.

Flexible, Home-Based Child Care for Your Family

Family Child Care (FCC) offers a safe, nurturing, and home-like environment for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. With small group sizes and flexible hours, FCC provides personalized care that fits your family's schedule, including full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend options. Licensed providers are trained to support your child’s development while ensuring a warm, engaging atmosphere.

Eligibility & Requirements:

Family Child Care (FCC) is designed to support military families by providing high-quality, home-based child care. Eligibility is based on priority and availability.

• Active-Duty Service Members
• Department of Defense (DoD) Civilians
• Reservists & National Guard Members
• Retirees
• DoD Contractors

To ensure a safe and developmentally appropriate environment, children enrolled in the Family Child Care (FCC) program must meet the following requirements:

Age Requirements

• Children must be between 6 weeks and 12 years old to enroll in FCC.
• School-age children (up to 12 years) may attend before/after school care, full-day care during school breaks, and summer programs.

Health & Immunization Requirements

• All children must have up-to-date immunization records, including age-appropriate vaccines as required by DoD and state regulations.

Special Needs & Accommodations

• The CYP behavior specialist, CYP nurse, and FCC providers work together to assess and accommodate children with special needs.
• Parents must disclose any medical, developmental, or dietary requirements during registration to ensure proper care and support.

If you have any question please contact our Resource and Referral office.

I Want to Provide Child Care

As an Family Child Care provider, you’ll offer safe, high-quality care for military children while enjoying flexible hours, professional training, and the ability to care for your own children at home. MCCS provides free training, support, and resources to help you succeed.

Start your journey today—make a difference in the lives of military families while building your own career! Contact your local Family Child Care office to learn more.

Why Become an FCC Provider?

• Run your own home-based business while supporting military families.
• Enjoy flexible hours and the ability to care for your own children at home.
• Receive training and support at no cost, including CPR, First Aid, and child development courses.
• Gain access to resources and equipment, including a lending library of toys and materials.
• Participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program to receive meal reimbursements.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Reside in government housing or approved off-base housing.
• Pass a comprehensive background check for all household members over 18.
• Complete a health screening for yourself and any family members who will be in the home.

Steps to Get Started:

1. Contact your local Family Child Care office to learn more about the application process and training requirements.
2. Download and complete the FCC Application or be obtained from the Resource and Referral office. Applicaton requires background checks.
3. Complete a family interview (provider applicant and spouse)
4. If interested in processing with the certification process, background checks are initiated.
5. Pay a non-refundable $50 training fee at Family Child Care office which covers the cost of the CPR/First Aid training. Training fees are not required at all locations. Contact the Resource and Referral office about training fees.
6. Attend FCC Provider initial training - 40-hours (one-week)
7. Complete health requirements for all household members,
8. Set up home in accordance with regulatory requirements.
9. Home inspection by Fire, Safety & Sanitation.
10. Quality Review Board.
11. Documentation sent to SJA regarding successfully completion of requirements (to obtain authorization to operate a home business).
12. (Upon SJA approval) Provider files Housing Addendum, notifying Family Housing of FCC business
13. Purchase Liability Insurance.
14. Upon clearance to start, Resource & Referral will assist in setting up provider's profile on MilitaryChildCare.com
15. Final walk-through by FCC staff.
16. Open for business!
17. Be committed to attending ongoing training sessions to guarantee the highest quality of care for children. This includes monthly evening training.

Homes should obtain certification from the command if they provide more than 10 "child care hours" per week. For instance, if a resident looks after two children for five hours, it amounts to 10 hours of child care. Homes that operate outside this framework without certification will be deemed unauthorized. Enforcement against such unauthorized care will be as per the Housing Office rules and regulations. Detailed information can be found on page 6 of the Resident handbook.

The FCC program is not only about providing care but also about ensuring that the caregivers are well-trained, certified, and provide a safe and nurturing environment for the children. The command plays an active role in monitoring and certifying providers, ensuring the best care for the children enrolled in the FCC program.

If you have any questions please contact our Resource and Referral office. 

School Liaison

• School Enrollment
  Guidance on enrolling children in local schools and understanding registration requirements.
   
• Local School Information
  Up-to-date resources about school districts, programs, and options available in the area.
   
• Home School Information
  Assisting families with guidance on their local school district homeschool requirements. 

• Special Education Support
  Help with navigating the special education process and accessing available services to include warm hand offs to EFMP.

• Transition Assistance
  Resources for families moving to a new area, including information on school calendars and schedules.

Exceptional Family Member Program

• Enrollment Assistance
  Guidance on enrolling in the EFMP and understanding program requirements.
   
• Specialized Support Services
  Access to resources for medical, educational, and emotional support tailored to family members with special needs.
   
• Transition Assistance
  Help with relocating to a new area, including information on local schools, medical facilities, and community services.
   
• Advocacy and Resources
  Connection to advocacy services and local support groups to assist families in accessing necessary care and benefits.
   
• Workshops and Training
  Opportunities for families to participate in workshops focused on managing special needs and navigating available resources.

Budgeting Your Child Care

• Blended Retirement System (BRS)
• Car Buying
• Consumer Awareness
• Continuation Pay
• Couple Financial Counseling
• Credit Report and Credit Score Analysis Saving and Investing
• Credit / Debt Management
• Developing a Spending Plan
• Financial Education Action Points (FEAP)
• Individual Financial Counseling
• Major Purchases
• Military Pay & Benefits
• Retirement Planning
• Survivor Benefits Plan
• Thrift Savings Plan
• Understanding Military Retirement Benefits

Marine Corps Family Team Building

• Identify Individual Needs
  Determine what specific support or resources you or your family require. MCFTB offers a variety of workshops, classes, and resources tailored to different needs, including deployment support, spouse education and career assistance, relationship-enhancement, and more.
  
  MCFTB professionals can help you identify your specific needs.
   
• Connect with MCFTB
  Reach out to MCFTB professionals either in person or by phone. They can provide guidance on available programs, workshops, and resources that best suit your needs.
   
• Attend Workshops and Classes
  Participate in MCFTB workshops, classes, and events relevant to your situation. These could include pre-deployment briefs, relationship-enhancement classes, pre-marital and marital workshops, relocation assistance workshops, family readiness seminars, financial planning classes, and more.
   
• Connect with Other Families
  Take advantage of opportunities to connect with other Marine Corps families through MCFTB-sponsored events, support groups, and social media platforms. Building connections with other families can provide valuable support and camaraderie.

Libraries

• Children's Collection: A diverse selection of picture books, chapter books, movies, and audiobooks designed for young readers. 

• Summer Reading Program: Featuring free activities and incentives to encourage a love of reading during the summer months. 

• Storytime Kits: Themed kits that include books and activities, allowing families to enjoy storytime at their convenience.

• Educational Programs and Activities: Various events and workshops that enrich your children's learning experiences. 

• Access to Digital Resources: Online materials, including e-books and educational databases, to support learning and exploration. Visit the DoD MWR Virtual Library.

Guiding Growth & Resilience

Community Counseling provides support to ease this transition by offering emotional support, stress management strategies, and adjustment counseling. Counselors help families navigate the challenges of relocation, offering guidance on coping with change, building resilience, and connecting with local resources.

Through individual and family counseling, the program helps create a smooth transition, strengthening the overall well-being of military families.

• Life Skills Development Resources:
• Relationship Concerns
• Work Stressors
• Life Stressors
• Trauma
• EAS/PCS and Challenges Related to Transition
• Grief and Loss
• Sadness
• Worry
• Deployment Cycle Stressors and Reintegration
• Adjustment
• Crisis Intervention
• Sleep Hygiene
• Parent-Child Communication