The Love Connection Episode 1: A History of How Policy Shaped Family, Friend and Neighbor Care
Sep 9, 2025
Fran Kipnis, a seasoned research consultant, dives into how historic policies have shaped Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) care. She reveals systemic biases in childcare legislation and emphasizes the necessity of rethinking quality and equity. Fran discusses the evolution of reimbursement rates and the disparities faced by FFN caregivers versus licensed options. Furthermore, she highlights the impact of immigration policies on FFN providers and advocates for stronger support and recognition within early childhood education.
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Fran's Entry Into Early Childhood Work
- Fran Kipnis described joining the field in 1986 after research work and falling in love with early childhood advocacy.
- She connected the work to women's rights and later to brain research showing early experiences matter.
Parental Choice Was Limited By Policy
- Legislation promised parental choice but often embedded limits that undermined true choice for families.
- Reimbursement rules and program design frequently favored licensed care over FFN arrangements.
Reimbursement Ceilings Undervalued FFN Care
- Reimbursement ceilings for license-exempt FFN care were set ad hoc and repeatedly reduced during budget cuts.
- These percentage-based ceilings created a systemic bias that undervalued FFN providers economically.