Michigan is testing a new pilot program that offers free pre-kindergarten in home-based child care settings, expanding the state's 'pre-K for all' initiative to include providers like Lori Leggert's The Sky's the Limit Family Childcare.
Home-Based Pre-K Pilot
Leggert's center, which operates much like a traditional school with lessons on living and nonliving things, also features hens and roosters outside and cares for children as young as 18 months. Two of her students are participating in the pilot, with one parent estimating savings of $2,600 this spring and summer.
'It benefits all the children in my care, not just the 4-year-olds,' said Leggert.
Until now, home-based providers were ineligible for Michigan's free pre-K program, which allows any 4-year-old to attend no-cost preschool. The pilot, funded by a $1.5 million federal grant, will support up to 80 children aged 3 or 4, providing coaching, curriculum, materials, and assessments.
Untapped Resource
Early childhood advocates see home-based providers as an untapped resource. A state policy document notes that there were 3,344 group homes or family child care sites in fiscal year 2024. Deb Dupras of the Community Coordinated Child Care Association of the Upper Peninsula emphasized the importance of including home providers, hoping pilot students perform as well as those in centers or schools.
Joan Blough of the Early Childhood Investment Corporation highlighted the benefits of smaller, more intimate settings with individualized attention.
Michigan's Pre-K Expansion
Michigan's Great Start Readiness Program now serves nearly 55,000 4-year-olds in schools, centers, and churches, free for all families under Governor Gretchen Whitmer's 'pre-K for all' effort. The state ranks 17th nationally for access and meets all 10 quality benchmarks. Additionally, the MiEarly Apprentice program helps paraprofessionals earn degrees and teaching certificates.
Leggert, who holds a child development associate credential and completes over 20 hours of training annually, said, 'I think sometimes hands-on and experience outweighs a degree.'
Family Choice
Parent Taylor Provost, whose son attends Leggert's program, appreciates the ability to keep her child in a familiar setting at no cost. Advocates note that home providers offer flexible hours and allow siblings to stay together. Katie Sloan of Oakland University said including home providers is smart, especially as the state adjusts ratios and schedules.
At Leggert's home, younger children can step away from lessons, and the pilot will fund materials for outdoor play. 'We are doing exactly what the school systems are,' Leggert said. 'We’re teaching the young kids...They’re getting their education 0 to 5, and I’m excited to be part of that.'
