Choosing a daycare is one of the most important decisions a parent will make.  And child care is one of the most prolific small businesses.  In fact there are more than 600 just in northern lower Michigan. 

     But there are new changes to an agency that serves both groups. 

     The details are in tonight's Fact Finder Report. 

     Child Care Connections, the 4c's has been around for more than 30 years with a goal of improve childcare throughout communities.

     The federally funded non profit helps parents find licensed child care that fits their needs and helps providers get the training they need.      

     Director Pam Ward says, "We’re a link between parents and childcare providers."

     But recently the organization got a new start with a new name, Great Start Connect.

     Ward says, "Most recently we've undergone quite a few changes.  We are offering our services in a different way."

     The changes were prompted after an extensive two year study of groups what work with Great Start Connect like, parents, providers and the Department of Human Services which regulates child care providers.

     One of the biggest changes will be greater reliance on the internet: one central database instead of 16 separate ones.

     Coverage zones have also shifted and some clients may have to go to a different regional office.

     And most parents will be encouraged to use the internet instead of coming into the office for a personal consultation.  

     Pam says, "If they can't get to the internet or they have an odd schedule that's hard to fill or a child with special needs we can do a personal consultation to help them with their childcare search."

     Some of the changes for providers include more access to their online profiles so parents can see what they have to offer.  Great Start Connect educators will also be visiting child care centers to help with professional development.  Another change will be greater online access to training opportunities.

     The director hopes the changes will free up staff to be able to concentrate on the group's larger goal.

     Ward says, "So it's really going to raise the quality of care which is something we've just touched on in the past."

     What would help you most as a parent or a childcare provider? 

     Leave your comments below. 

     Click here for more information about the new 4c's, Great Start Connect