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The child care & early education glossary defines terms used to describe aspects of child care and early education practice and policy; the research glossary defines terms used in conducting social science and policy research, for example those describing methods, measurements, statistical procedures, and other aspects of research.

A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P Q R S T U V W
Layered Funding
A Financing Strategy in which two or more sources pay for services, with core or foundational services being funded by one or more streams, and supplemental services being funded by additional and separate streams. See related: Blended Funding; Braided Funding.
Learning Disability
A general term that includes specific kinds of learning problems or impairments that affect one's ability to learn and use certain skills.
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Refers to the legal requirement outlined in the IDEA of educating children with disabilities in regular classes, with suitable aids and supports, to the maximum extent appropriate. LRE requirements apply to all children with disabilities who are served under the IDEA, Part B. See related: Inclusion.
License Exempt Child Care
Legally operated child care that is exempt from regulatory requirements set forth by the state or the local licensing agency. To receive subsides, license/legally exempt child care must comply with requirements of the Subsidy system (e.g., mandatory criminal background checks, healthy and safety inspections, etc.).
Licensed Capacity
Refers to the maximum number of children allowed to be in a licensed or regulated child care program or setting at any one time. Capacity is based upon the number of children for which adequate facilities and teachers/caregivers are provided, in accordance with supervision and space requirements.
Licensed Child Care
Child care programs operated in homes or in facilities that fall within the regulatory system of a state or community and comply with those regulations. Many states have different licensing and regulatory requirements.
Licensing Inspection
Onsite inspections of a child care program to monitor compliance with licensing or other regulatory requirements. Once a child care program has been licensed, it will receive inspections to ensure ongoing compliance. See related: Monitoring.
Licensing or Regulatory Requirements
Refers to requirements that providers must meet to legally operate child care services in a state or locality, including registration requirements established under state, local, or Tribal law.
Limited English Speaking/Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
Individuals who speak a language other than English as their first language and have limited comprehension, and ability to speak, read or write in English. See related: English Language Learners (ELL); Dual Language Learners (DLL); Bilingual.
Linguistic Competence
The ability of an organization and its staff to communicate effectively with, and provide information to, people who may have limited English skills, low literacy, or disabilities.
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