Building Flexible Childcare in Durham: Lessons from Research
Recent research on childcare systems provides crucial insights for developing Windy Hill Play's community-centered approach in Durham County. Studies of both universal programs like Quebec's and targeted interventions like Perry Preschool demonstrate that success in early childhood programs hinges on maintaining consistent quality while providing flexible access. The evidence suggests that centralized, one-size-fits-all approaches often struggle to meet diverse community needs, while more localized, adaptable programs show greater promise in serving families effectively.
Quebec's experience with universal childcare offers particularly relevant lessons. While the program succeeded in increasing access to care, challenges with maintaining quality led to some concerning outcomes. Research shows that rapid expansion without sufficient quality controls and community engagement can result in negative effects on children's development, particularly in their non-cognitive skills. However, these findings also reinforce the importance of Windy Hill's emphasis on play-based learning and deep community connections.
Key Takeaways from Research:
Quality Cannot Be Compromised: Successful programs maintain high standards through well-trained staff, appropriate ratios, and developmentally appropriate programming
Community Connection Matters: Local, relationship-based approaches better serve diverse family needs
Flexibility Requires Infrastructure: Sustainable flexible care depends on strong provider networks and support systems
Mixed Delivery Works Best: Offering multiple care options (centers, homes, cooperative models) increases accessibility
Play-Based Learning Drives Development: Child-led exploration and nature connection support positive outcomes
Building on these insights, Windy Hill Play's commitment to flexible, community-based childcare infrastructures positions it well to avoid common pitfalls while maximizing impact. Our focus on play-based learning and nature connection provides the quality foundation essential for positive outcomes. Meanwhile, our community-centered approach naturally creates the kind of adaptive, responsive systems that research shows better serve diverse family needs.
Moving forward, success will require careful attention to both growth and quality. This means expanding thoughtfully through neighborhood-based networks, supporting both center and home-based providers, and maintaining strong community connections throughout. By focusing on professional development, provider support networks, and ongoing community engagement, we can build sustainable systems that truly serve Durham's families.
Critically, research supports our emphasis on abundance mindset and community partnership. Successful flexible care programs rely on diverse funding streams, strong local relationships, and shared resources. By cultivating these elements while staying true to our core mission of play-based learning and community connection, we can create a transformative approach to childcare that works for all Durham families.
The path forward requires balancing accessibility with quality, flexibility with sustainability, and growth with community connection. Through careful implementation guided by research and rooted in our values, Windy Hill Play can lead the way in demonstrating how community-centered, flexible childcare can serve as a foundation for thriving families and neighborhoods.
References
Baker, M., Gruber, J., & Milligan, K. (2019). The long-run impacts of a universal child care program. American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, 11(3), 1-26.
Baxter, J. A., & Hand, K. (2016). Flexible child care: Key findings from the AIFS Evaluation of the Child Care Flexibility Trials (Commissioned Report). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
Mohamed, R. (2022). Quebec's child-care program at 25: A scorecard. The Line. https://childcarecanada.org/documents/child-care-news/22/01/quebec's-child-care-program-25-scorecard
Whitehurst, G. J. (2017). Why the federal government should subsidize childcare and how to pay for it. Evidence Speaks Reports, 2(11), 1-16. Brookings Institution.
These foundational studies inform critical aspects of flexible childcare development:
Baker et al. (2019) provides longitudinal evidence about the impacts of universal childcare
Baxter & Hand (2016) offers practical insights from implementing flexible care models
Mohamed (2022) evaluates 25 years of Quebec's universal program outcomes
Whitehurst (2017) examines policy and funding considerations for childcare expansion
Together, these works highlight both opportunities and challenges in developing flexible, high-quality childcare systems, particularly emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality while expanding access.