Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Help Paying For Child Care


We offer the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) online or in-person screening for families with children ages 0-5 years. The screening can help you understand how your child is developing.

Developmental Screening is important for monitoring your baby's development. It can help you understand your child's growth as well as check to see if there are any developmental delays or concerns so that they can be addressed early on.

Social Emotional Screening is also available as a method for detecting and monitoring whether your child may be delayed in aspects of emotional development such as: communication, autonomy, affect, and interaction with people.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Trying New Foods with Cookie Monster | Parenting


Together with your child, watch this video in which Cookie Monster’s little niece is being especially... choosy! Notice how Cookie Monster offers her the same food prepared differently (raw carrots instead of cooked).

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Sunday, March 22, 2026

Understanding the Solano Eligibility List (SEL)


The Solano Eligibility List (SEL) helps ensure that childcare services are provided to families who need them most. By ranking applicants based on specific criteria, the SEL creates a fair and structured way to prioritize enrollment.

Families are evaluated using factors like gross household income, family size, and other qualifying needs. Before enrollment, income must be verified to confirm eligibility. In addition, children involved with Child Protective Services (CPS), or those at risk of neglect or abuse, are given top priority to ensure their safety and well-being.

In cases where a child lives with a guardian or foster parent, only the child’s income is considered when determining their ranking on the list. This helps provide equitable access to services regardless of the caregiver’s financial situation.

While income plays a major role in eligibility, it’s not the only factor. There are additional circumstances that may qualify a family for support. To better understand where you stand, you can view and download the current family size and income guidelines, or complete an application to explore all eligibility options.

The SEL is designed to make access to childcare more transparent, fair, and responsive to the needs of the community.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Friday, March 20, 2026

Happy Songs with Elmo! | Sesame Street Compilation | 20 Minutes


Spread the positive energy with songs like "Happy and You Know It" and more with Elmo and friends on Sesame Street!

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950




 

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Friday, March 13, 2026

LOCALLY SERVING SOLANO COUNTY FAMILIES AND CHILDREN


Important Update

Enrollment for our Subsidized Child Care Program is currently paused. Families may still apply to join the Solano Eligibility List (SEL), which is the first step for those seeking help paying for child care.

Getting Started

Solano Family & Children’s Services (SFCS) may provide full or partial payment for child care services for Solano County residents. The programs are designed to help income-eligible families afford child care. The programs serve children under the age of 13, children with documented special or exceptional needs may be served through age 21. A key component of the programs is parental choice. This allows enrolled families to choose the child care setting that meets the specific needs of the family. Funding is provided through a combination of federal, state, and local agencies. When funding allows, SFCS will open enrollment to new families based on our Solano Eligibility List (SEL). This list is different from a waiting list in that we pull based on eligibility and need; not time on this list. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that a family will receive assistance through a subsidized child care program. Exceptions families who are currently receiving Cash Aid or who have been on Cash Aid in the last two years, and who meet the income guidelines and have a need for child care. Families must submit an application to place their name on the Solano Eligibility List (SEL) for the child care program(s) that best meet the needs of their family. Families do not automatically receive subsidized child care by submitting the application.

Submit Your Application Here


LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Ready for Rest | Health & Hygiene


Watch children around the world wind-down before nap or bedtime.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

 

Saturday, March 7, 2026

Getting Started with the CACFP: What You Need to Know


If you’re considering joining the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), getting started is easier than you might think. Here’s what you need to know:

What kind of records must I keep?

Only a small amount of paperwork is required—and it’s not complicated. Before you begin, staff from Solano Family & Children's Services (SFCS) provide training in your home to guide you through the process. Online recordkeeping is also available, making it simple and convenient to stay organized and compliant.

What types of food must be served?

Meals and snacks must meet United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements. This means serving foods from the four basic food groups:

  • Milk

  • Proteins

  • Grains/Breads

  • Fruits and Vegetables

These guidelines ensure children in your care receive balanced, nutritious meals that support healthy growth and development.

Where do I begin?

To participate, you must be one of the following:

  • A Licensed Family Child Care Home (FCCH) Provider residing in Solano or Napa Counties
    OR

  • A TrustLine Registered Provider residing in Solano or Napa Counties with a final clearance letter

Once you have your license or TrustLine registration and at least one child in your care, you’re eligible to begin participating in CACFP.

For more information, contact the CACFP staff at (707) 863-3950, extension #131.

Don’t hesitate—call today and take the next step toward supporting healthy meals in your child care home!

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

The Benefits of the CACFP for Providers and Families


Participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) offers meaningful benefits for both child care providers and the families they serve.

One of the primary advantages is financial support. Providers receive a monthly reimbursement for serving nutritious meals and snacks that meet program guidelines. Participants may claim reimbursement for:

  • Up to two main meals and one snack per child, per day
    OR

  • Up to two snacks and one main meal per child, per day

This support helps offset grocery costs while ensuring children receive balanced, healthy meals in care.

Another important benefit is accessibility. All children from infancy through age 12 qualify for participation—regardless of family income level. Children with special needs have no age restrictions, making the program inclusive and supportive for families with diverse needs. In some cases, providers may also be eligible to claim their own residential children, further extending the program’s value.

Parents also appreciate when their provider participates in CACFP. It gives them peace of mind knowing their children are receiving nutritious meals without the added stress of packing food each day. For providers, this can be a strong selling point when marketing a family child care home. Participation demonstrates a commitment to health, quality, and professionalism—qualities families look for when choosing care.

Overall, CACFP supports healthy children, strengthens child care businesses, and builds confidence for parents—all while promoting lifelong healthy eating habits.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Sunday, March 1, 2026

Let’s Move Together | Physical Activity


Watch this video about the different ways we can move and groove... children and grown-ups alike!

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

 

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Supporting Healthy Growth: What Is the Child and Adult Care Food Program?


Good nutrition plays a vital role in a child’s growth, learning, and overall well-being. The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is designed to ensure children in care settings receive the healthy meals and snacks they need to thrive each day.

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federally funded initiative operated through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service. Its primary purpose is to provide nutritious meals and snacks to children in licensed child care homes and centers. By supporting balanced, age-appropriate meals, the program helps promote healthy eating habits early in life.

In Solano and Napa counties, the program is sponsored by Solano Family & Children's Services (SFCS). Through this sponsorship, local child care providers receive guidance, resources, and reimbursement for serving meals that meet federal nutrition standards. This partnership ensures that children in home-based care settings have access to wholesome food options every day.

Beyond simply providing meals, CACFP supports families and child care providers by reinforcing the importance of nutrition education and consistent meal patterns. When children have access to healthy foods in a supportive environment, they build strong foundations for lifelong wellness.

Programs like CACFP demonstrate how community partnerships and federal support can work together to make a meaningful difference—one healthy meal at a time.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Monday, February 23, 2026

Friday, February 20, 2026

Let’s Eat Together | Eating Well

Watch this video with children to celebrate the joy of eating together and trying new things!

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Monday, February 16, 2026

Saturday, February 14, 2026

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Elmo, Abby, and Grover Talk About Healthy Habits with Kids!

What are healthy habits? Elmo, Abby, and Grover ask children about the things they do in their daily lives to stay healthy! Let's learn about eating fruits and vegetables, getting enough rest, and even dancing to move our bodies!

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950



Sunday, February 8, 2026

Thursday, February 5, 2026

Monday, February 2, 2026

What’s The Story of Groundhog Day? The History Behind the Tradition!


Where Did Groundhog Day Come From? The History Behind the Tradition

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Saturday, January 31, 2026

ASQ Training for Child Care Providers -- February 11 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm


ASQ Training for Child Care Providers -- February 11 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Free


Calling ALL Solano County Child Care Providers!!

Are you a child care provider looking to enhance your skills and knowledge?

Help Me Grow Solano is hosting a virtual ASQ Training for Child Care Providers in Solano County. Join us for this online training session designed specifically for you. Learn about how we can support you with screening children in your own care and help them be ready for Kindergarten with this tool. Providers will learn about the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) tool and how to effectively implement them in your practice. This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow providers and grow together.

Don’t miss out on this valuable training experience!

Event Details:
Date: February 11, 2026
Time: 6:30PM -7:30PM
Location: ZOOM (You will receive the link once you register for this event. )
NOTE: You must Register to take this training.

Tickets will be available on Monday, January 12, 2026. Click here to register.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Our Mission


Creating connections for families and child care
providers to support the healthy development
of children for a thriving community.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950






Sunday, January 25, 2026

AI and Us | Digital Well-being


An animated video that helps explain AI to young children—and encourages families to explore it together in ways that spark curiosity, support their interests, and inspire wonder.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Support for Providers, Because You Care for Our Community


Child care providers are essential, and we’re here to support the incredible work they do. From training and professional development to reimbursement support and resources, Solano Family & Children’s Services is proud to stand behind those who care for our youngest learners.

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned provider, we’re here to help you grow, succeed, and make a difference.

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Friday, January 16, 2026

Parenting Moment: Reflecting with Elmo and Louie | Parenting


Watch this video on your own or with your child. In it, Elmo’s dad Louie, demonstrates the strategy of reflecting. Reflecting is “saying what they say”—echoing and expanding on what your child is saying. This lets them know you hear them and you “get them”! And it all starts with following children’s lead.  

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Snack & Chat with CCIP -- Jan 21 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm PST


Jan 21 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm PST

Overview
Join Us for Our Bi-monthly Networking Event hosted by The Child Care Initiative Project (CCIP) at Solano Family & Children’s Services
The Child Care Initiative Project (CCIP) is a statewide program designed to build the supply and improve the quality of licensed family child care homes in California. CCIP works through local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies to recruit, train, and retain licensed family child care providers.

Our bimonthly Open Forum is held to give you the opportunity to meet other professionals in our world of early educators, those in the trenches with you & those that support you. Come “Snack & Chat” with fellow child care providers to exchange information and share common issues in this monthly networking opportunity. Our goal is to give you all premium support as you strive to provide the highest quality of care in our county.

Bring snack(s) to share, ideas & questions to ask & business cards to network with. Come excited to win a raffle!

Who should attend?
“Seasoned” Family Child Care Providers
Newly licensed Family Child Care Providers
Those who are in the process of becoming Family Child Care Providers
All who are providing care for a family, friend or neighbor

Please note:
Space is limited
Registration is required
Children will not be allowed at this event
This event will be held in English. The Spanish version of Snack & Chat “Cafecito y Conexiones” will be held on the third Thursday bimonthly the very next day after Snack & Chat.

See you there! Click HERE to register

LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950

Saturday, January 10, 2026

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Merry & Bright Employee Spotlight


About the Merry & Bright Employee Spotlight
The Merry & Bright Employee Spotlight is a seasonal recognition initiative that gives parents, guardians, child care providers,
and community menbers an opportunity to recognize SFCS staff for exceptional service, kindness, and support.

How to Participate
• Drop a "You've Been Cheered" card in The Jingle Box in our lobby
• Submit a digital cheer card using the form

Deadline to submit a cheer:
January 17, 2026
Ready to share your appreciation?


LOCATION
421 Executive Court North
Fairfield, CA 94534-4019
(707) 863-3950




Sunday, January 4, 2026

Thursday, January 1, 2026