Strengthening Childcare in Frederick County: Initiative Outcomes
By Patti Lyman, Employment and Training Consultant
Frederick County completed a study that showed many families had difficulty finding affordable, high‑quality childcare. The lack of childcare had affected children’s development, family income, and the county’s overall economy.
The study, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, gathered feedback from more than 1,600 parents and childcare providers. Results showed long waitlists, too few licensed childcare slots, and significant challenges for childcare providers—especially those caring for infants and toddlers. Families in the county were losing about $1 million each year in wages because they could not secure childcare, and Maryland women returned to work at only half the national rate. Many children entered kindergarten without needed readiness skills, especially low‑income children and Latino English learners. The study also found that each dollar invested in childcare brought back three to four dollars to the economy.
To address these issues, Frederick County’s Division of Family Services and Frederick County Workforce Services launched the Childcare Workforce Initiative. The initiative helped local residents join the childcare workforce or open licensed home‑based childcare businesses. Participants received free training, coaching, business support, and guidance through the licensing process. Training was available both in person and online, and current childcare providers could take courses to stay compliant or advance their skills.
Through the initiative, participants received support such as transportation assistance, monthly check‑ins, certification training, and help preparing their homes for daycare inspections. They also received supplies and small stipends to cover startup costs. Some homes faced challenges with septic system inspections, but the county began working on both short‑term and long‑term solutions.
As of June 30, 2026, the program had enrolled 35 people, with 29 still active. Nineteen participants had earned licensure, and 15 new in‑home childcare programs had opened since May 2025. Certification courses showed strong completion, and the program maintained a low dropout rate.
Overall, Frederick County’s childcare initiative expanded access to high‑quality childcare, supported new small businesses, and helped more families return to work.
How Families Can Connect to Approved Childcare
Families seeking approved childcare options can visit the Maryland State Department of Education’s Check Child Care Maryland website to review licensing information about a provider, including the provider’s license status, verified complaints, and inspection results or view all licensed homes and childcare centers in Frederick County.
Parents may also access Region 12 – Frederick County | Division of Early Childhood, which provides childcare‑related information, regional services, and support for families.
Training and Workforce Pathways
Individuals interested in joining the childcare workforce or opening a licensed childcare business can connect directly with Frederick County Workforce Services for training, support, and to learn more about the programs we offer.