CCR&R news & updates
November 2022
Iowa Quality for Kids
When working through the new quality rating and improvement system, Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K®), it's best to start the process early and utilize all of the resources that are available through Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R).

Providers have a lot of questions as they navigate their application paperwork and requirements for each level. During this time, providers have utilized their CCR&R Child Care Consultant and also worked closely with the IQ4K Specialists.

A head start program located in central Iowa had multiple applications for different sites they needed to complete. The program director found it very helpful to connect with CCR&R staff as they provided the correct documents, uploaded them to the online application system and finalized their application. As a head start, they have many different standards they must complete; now IQ4K® is one of them.

The learning curve of this new system was made easier by having CCR&R involved in each step. Fast feedback, guidance and starting the process early eased the stress of the application process and ensured enough time to get all of the paperwork complete. A common roadblock for the online application, program staff must be connected in Iowa's Professional Workforce Registry (i-PoWeR). CCR&R offers clear guidance about connecting to i-PoWeR for child development homes and center/school-age programs.

This head start program is excited to have completed the process and have received their rating! (and a pretty nice bonus!) Even though it will be a while before they renew, CCR&R will be a valuable asset when it comes. 

To learn more about IQ4K® and how we can support your business – please check out our website and talk with your child care team today!

Don't forget to follow Kaya, the Quality Kangaroo, on Facebook for the scoop on all things IQ4K®!
Benefits of NDS
The current funding for child care is inadequate, inconsistent, and unsustainable. It places too high a burden on families and providers working for low wages, creating what we believe are unmistakable inequities. But we need the help of grassroots child care providers and centers to capture our workforce's needs, strengths, struggles and successes. Data is only as functional as it is accurate. CCR&R data is utilized by families, communities and policymakers to make informed decisions about child care.

The changing climate of child care hinges on using data and digital technology to improve child care infrastructure. But, how does keeping your provider data up-to-date benefit child care providers? 

  • Make informed decisions – faster – to help the child care business grow, retain more customers and work more efficiently.

  • Having an accurate data system builds a better child care system. The more precise the data, the better it can help inform and educate others. 

CCR&R encourages home businesses and centers to continuously update their child care data and real-time vacancies using the Provider Portal National Data System (NDS 2.0). From infants to summer programs, our dedicated data team works daily to verify the quality and accuracy of the CCR&Rs database. We capture information through consumer feedback, regulatory data and monthly reporting of technical assistance by CCR&R staff.

Still, the most up-to-date source of information will always be the providers themselves. Your investment and dedication to keeping NDS 2.0 up-to-date ensure households have access to real-time data about supply; system leaders understand the implications of child care policies and practices and you can more successfully manage your child care businesses.

If you are a child care program looking to learn more about directly updating your file, connect with your CCR&R Child Care Consultant.
All Things Child Care
Funding Opportunities
Governor Reynolds launched the Child Care Taskforce on March 10, 2021, to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the child care shortage and barriers to work in Iowa. The final report can be found here.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and statewide child care partners have announced many new programs to help child care providers in Iowa.


  • Child Care Challenge Grant
  • Employer Innovation Grant
  • Recruitment & Retention Bonus Program
  • Rural Child Care Market Study
  • Shared Services - Web-based Partnership Platform
  • Stabilization Grants
  • WAGE$® Iowa - Salary Supplement Program

Reach out to your CCR&R Child Care Consultant with questions.
Child Care News Around Iowa
Recruitment

CCR&R is excited to announce our recruitment texting campaign in Iowa. Our community development team designed this marketing tool to help folks who are considering starting a career in early childhood education. This new platform guides participants through options to consider before starting a new, rewarding career in child care.

Start your career in early childhood education! Text: startchildcare to 59925
Looking For Child Care Services

Parent Referral texting offers a way for parents to connect with our online referral options. This parent text campaign will send no more than six texts offering referral assistance and tips to help parents with their search. Our texting system is automated and personal responses may be delayed.

Start your search today! Text: IAchildcare to 59925
Provider Text Messaging

CCR&R offers text messaging to ensure we are delivering information and important updates to early childhood education professionals as quickly and efficiently as possible.


Sign up today! Text: IowaCCRR to 59925
Funding provided by the Iowa Department of Human Services through the Child Care Development Fund