Reducing Isolation of Family Child Care Providers by Participation in a Provider-Initiated Support Network / Patricia Reish Wetherington.

Because of the difficulty of finding time for professional and personal development, many family child care (FCC) providers are isolated in their work environment. This practicum study developed a provider-initiated support network to reduce this isolation. The local FCC association provided advertising about the formation of the network. A group of nine providers met twice monthly over 3 months in the author's home to discuss FCC issues such as professionalism, isolation, and business practices. A needs assessment completed prior to the meetings identified additional interests among the providers. The topics covered at the meetings were: (1) problems with parents; (2) program activities for children; (3) how to create a learning environment; and (4) discipline. Each meeting provided an opportunity for providers to find solutions with professional input from other providers. Participants also developed hands-on activities, discussed case studies, and listened to guest speakers. After each meeting, a newsletter was circulated which reinforced noteworthy ideas from the meeting and highlighted personal and professional accomplishments of each provider. Results from a questionnaire indicated that FCC providers who participated in the support network reduced isolation in their work environment and felt more connected to the field of FCC. The support network validated their choice of profession and helped them feel enthusiastic about their role as a child care provider. The network continued in operation after the end of the 3-month implementation period. (Contains 38 references.) (KDFB)

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