Family Child Care (FCC) FAQ
1. Are Army FCC providers employed by Child and Youth Services (CYS)?
Answer: Army FCC providers are considered private contractors certified and monitored by the local CYS FCC Director or FCC POC.
2. How long does it take to become certified?
Answer: The certification process may vary by Garrison. The certification process to include Background Checks should not take more than 30 days.
3. Can I become a certified Army FCC provider if I live off-post?
Answer: At this time, FCC provider applicants must reside in government owned or leased housing, or privatized housing located on the installation.
4. Are FCC Providers required to offer overnight care?
Answer: No. The FCC system is composed of three categories of homes: multi-age homes. Age specific homes, and special purpose homes. FCC providers may obtain endorsements for specialized services, such as extended care (overnight care), hourly Care, respite/emergency care.
5. Is becoming an FCC provider profitable?
Answer: Yes! It is a wonderful way to support your military community and make a respectable income at home while contributing to the lives of young children. If you have children of your own it is a fantastic way to combine being an engaged and involved parent while also operating your own business.
6. If I become a certified FCC provider will my home be subject to inspections?
Answer: Yes. Fire, Health, and Safety inspections will be conducted by the Garrison officials prior to final certification, and annually thereafter.
7. Will I receive toys, or start-up items for my home?
Answer: An FCC lending library will be available to support FCC providers. The library will be equipped with a variety of equipment and materials which support safe developmental care.
8. What are the qualifications for a Substitute Provider?
Answer: Substitute providers are limited to only providing care in a regular provider’s home. The appropriate Background checks (i.e., FBI fingerprints, State and local installation records checks), are required. In addition, CPR/First Aid training, CYS orientation, Child Abuse Prevention, and basic health and safety procedures.
9. Will I need to give up my entire family living area if I become a FCC provider?
Answer: The FCC home is used both for family living and childcare. The use and arrangement of space in the home will depend on the age and number of children cared for, the needs of the FCC Provider’s family and the amount and layout of available space. Without completely disrupting normal family routines, FCC providers must be willing to make some adjustments to the family home. .
10. What is the child/FCC provider ratio?
Answer: Each provisionally and fully certified FCC home will be authorized a maximum number of children who may be accepted at any one time for full-day, part-day or hourly care. The total may be restricted locally, based on the size of the housing unit. The provider/child ratio for multi-age homes, (4 weeks-12 yrs.) is 1:6. Infant/Toddler homes (4 weeks to 3 yrs.) is 1:3.
