Michigan State University (MSU) and the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP) hosted a webinar on April 21, 2026, highlighting updates to the Child Care Mapping Project website and some of the interactive maps.
Presented by Dr. Marissa Castellana, Holli Schlukebir, and Dr. Jamie Wu, the webinar showcased the ongoing partnership between MSU and MiLEAP through the Child Care Mapping Project. The project provides data on child care availability across Michigan to help policymakers and program leaders better understand community needs and improve access to high-quality child care for families statewide. While the Child Care Mapping Project includes several tools, the presentation focused on three maps:
- Michigan's Licensed Child Care Providers Map: Shows licensed child care providers alongside licensing information and community characteristics.
- Child Care Supply and Demand Map (formerly the Child Care Deserts Map): Highlights areas where the demand for child care exceeds available supply.
- Child Development and Care (CDC) Scholarship Usage Map: Shows where providers accept CDC scholarships and how usage varies by community characteristics.
Recent updates to the maps include improved accessibility, additional filters, easier navigation, and expanded summary data. To download the transcript, click here.
These materials were developed under a grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential using Child Care Development Funds (CCDF).