About the Study
Access to affordable, high-quality child care for infants and toddlers has long been a challenge for many Arizona families—and the COVID-19 pandemic made it even harder. Many providers closed their doors permanently, especially in rural and low-income communities, leaving parents with fewer options.
This multi-year study, funded by the federal Administration for Children and Families, explores how child care access has changed over time and what can be done to support providers and families across Arizona.
Our Approach
We are taking a phased approach to better understand the child care landscape in Arizona, especially for infants and toddlers:
Phase 1: Mapping the Gaps
In Phase 1, we analyzed state and national data from 2017 to 2025 to understand:
- Where child care access improved, declined, or stayed the same
- How trends varied across communities—rural, urban, high-Hispanic/Latinx areas, and more
- Differences in access between care for infants and toddlers versus preschool-aged children
We built interactive maps and community data tools to help visualize the child care landscape across Arizona.
Phase 2: Listening to Providers
In Phase 2, we’re conducting interviews with child care providers—including center directors and home-based caregivers—to hear directly from those on the front lines. We’re learning about:
- What helped them stay open or caused them to close
- Decisions around caring for infants and toddlers
- Barriers and support needed to continue providing care
We’re including providers who speak Spanish, work in rural communities, and serve families with diverse needs—including non-traditional work hours, disabilities, and housing insecurity.
Why This Matters
Infant and toddler care is much harder to find than care for older children. This shortage hits hardest in:
- Rural communities
- Low-income neighborhoods
- Areas with high concentrations of Hispanic/Latinx families
By understanding how access has changed—and what providers need to succeed—we can help guide smarter investments, policies, and supports for Arizona families and the people who care for their children.
What We’re Sharing
As the study continues, we’re working to share what we learn in ways that are useful and accessible to both community members and decision-makers. This will include:
- Printable and interactive maps
- Research briefs and one-page snapshots
- Blog posts, stories, and policy takeaways
- Community-friendly reports and data tools
Check back here often for updates and resources.
Stay Connected
Want to learn more or receive updates?
Contact the project director at mdeblois@arizona.edu
Sign up for updates [insert link to interest form or email list]
Follow our findings as we continue to learn from communities and providers across Arizona.