Our Mission and Vision
Mission
CCR&R supports access to quality child care and strengthens Iowa’s child care system through collaboration, consultation, professional development, and resource support.
Vision
Every child, beginning at birth, will be healthy and successful.
Who We Support
CCR&R provides support and services for:
- Families searching for child care
- Child care centers and preschools
- Child Development Home providers
- Communities and employers
- Early childhood professionals and partners
CCR&R helps connect Iowans with child care resources, training, referrals, consultation, and professional support services that strengthen child care programs and improve access to care.
What CCR&R Does
CCR&R supports Iowa’s child care system through:
- Child care referrals
- Parent Services support
- Professional development and training
- Consultation and technical assistance
- Quality improvement support
- Business and program guidance
- Data and community support initiatives
- Resource development and statewide coordination
Families can connect with CCR&R to search for regulated child care options and learn more about available resources.
Providers can access consultation, coaching, technical assistance, and professional development opportunities designed to support strong child care programs.
Supporting Iowa’s Child Care System
CCR&R works alongside the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), community partners, child care programs, and local communities to help strengthen child care access and quality across Iowa.
This work includes:
- Supporting workforce and child care needs
- Providing statewide coordination and communication
- Sharing resources and guidance
- Supporting continuous quality improvement
- Helping communities respond to local child care needs
CCR&R supports system-wide efforts that help children, families, providers, employers, and communities succeed.
Professional Development and Consultation
CCR&R provides ongoing professional development and consultation services for Iowa child care providers.
Services may include:
- Training and professional development planning
- Health and safety support
- Business practices and program operations
- Classroom and environment support
- Continuous quality improvement guidance
- Coaching and consultation services
Providers can connect with CCR&R staff to identify supports and resources that fit their program needs.
Quality Child Care and Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K)
CCR&R supports quality child care initiatives across Iowa and helps providers connect with resources related to Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K), Iowa’s quality rating and improvement system.
CCR&R consultants and IQ4K specialists can help providers:
- Understand participation requirements
- Navigate documentation and resources
- Access quality improvement support
- Identify professional development opportunities
Statewide Support With Regional Connections
CCR&R provides statewide coordination while supporting local communities across Iowa through regional teams and partnerships.
Families and providers can connect with local CCR&R staff for:
- Referrals and support
- Consultation services
- Training opportunities
- Community resources
- Program guidance
Our History
Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral began in 1989 in response to Iowa’s growing need for child care services and support. Since then, CCR&R has expanded statewide services, strengthened provider support systems, and continued adapting to meet the changing needs of Iowa children, families, providers, employers, and communities.
Over the years, CCR&R has helped shape Iowa’s child care landscape through professional development, consultation services, statewide coordination, quality initiatives, technology systems, and family support services.
Explore CCR&R Resources and Services
Whether you are searching for child care, exploring professional development opportunities, or looking for support for your child care program, CCR&R can help connect you with statewide services and resources.