Learn how Child Developmental Homes offer a safe, stable, and family-based alternative to group care — designed to support children with developmental disabilities in a nurturing home environment.
When caring for a child with a developmental disability becomes overwhelming or unsustainable at home, finding the right support system is essential. While some families explore group homes or institutional care, many are now turning to Child Developmental Homes (CDH) — a licensed, family-style setting that provides individualized care and emotional connection.
Families can contact us for child developmental home services that provide warm, secure environments where their children can flourish. These spaces offer places where children receive the personalized care and attention they need to reach their full potential.Â
At Family Partners, we help families across Arizona explore CDH placements that feel safe, supportive, and tailored to each child’s unique needs.
A Child Developmental Home (CDH) is a licensed private residence where a trained provider offers 24/7 care for a child with a developmental disability. These homes are designed to offer stability, structure, and the personal attention that children need to grow and thrive.
Children under the age of 18 with qualifying developmental disabilities may be eligible for children’s special needs foster care services through Arizona’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). This includes children with:
Intellectual or developmental disabilities
Autism spectrum disorder
Cerebral palsy
Epilepsy
Family Partners can assist in confirming eligibility and guide you through the placement process from start to finish.
CDH placements offer more than basic care — our children’s special needs foster care offers connection, consistency, and compassion. For children who may struggle in a group setting or require close attention, the CDH model provides a quieter, more individualized alternative.
Stable, consistent caregiving from a dedicated provider
Personalized care routines and goal-setting
A nurturing family environment that promotes trust and security
Stronger emotional bonds and long-term stability
These homes are often a turning point for children — helping them build confidence, regulate emotions, and learn new skills in a setting that feels like home.
To become a licensed developmental home provider through Family Partners and Arizona DDD, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be 21 years of age or older
All household members must agree to participate as a provider family
Be of honest and reputable character
Have available space in your home
All adults must undergo fingerprinting and background checks through the Department of Public Safety and Adult Protective Services
Submit a physician’s statement and any required medical tests
Provide immunization records for each child in the home
Have sufficient income or financial resources to meet family needs
Complete all required training and participate in a home study interview
Maintain reliable transportation with insurance and registration
Authorize all necessary background and medical release forms
These steps are essential to ensure that providers can meet the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities placed in their homes.
When applying to become a provider, you’ll have input into the type of placement you prefer — child or adult, male or female, and other key traits. Family Partners carefully considers your strengths, home environment, and preferences when matching you with an individual. Our goal is always long-term compatibility and success for both provider and client.
Â
Once a placement is made into the home, the provider will receive a daily payment to cover room and board costs plus compensation for the habilitation training that is provided to increase the individual’s independent living skills. The payment is considered non-taxable income and is paid twice per month via direct deposit.
Â
Family Partners goes above and beyond to provide initial and ongoing training and professional development opportunities to our licensed Developmental Home Providers to ensure the best possible care for children and adults placed. Â
Â
Each provider is assigned a Licensing Specialist who acts as both a guide and an advocate. They ensure licensing standards are maintained, training is up to date, and you feel supported. Monthly home visits, assistance at team meetings, and help resolving issues are all part of our commitment to your success as a provider.
Â
Developmental Home providers are expected to:
Provide a clean, furnished bedroom (with specific rules on room sharing
Meet the health, safety, and nutritional needs of the individual
Include the individual in all family routines and activities
Foster personal relationships or protect against harm and exploitation
Support the individual’s religious freedom and personal interests
Provide reliable transportation to school, therapies, medical care, meaningful day services and/or employment
Encourage hygiene, social skills, and appropriate attire
Maintain detailed paperwork and attend planning meetings
Uphold the rights of the individual and advocate for their well-being
These expectations ensure the individual receives comprehensive, compassionate care in a safe and supportive home.
Family Partners ensures that all licensed providers receive comprehensive training and unmatched support. Our Developmental Home Specialists work closely with providers and individuals to maintain high standards of care, help with transitions, and build lasting relationships.
We also offer an incentive bonus for currently licensed providers who transfer to Family Partners:
$500 bonus for transferring providers without current placements
$1,000 bonus per individual for transferring providers with current placements
Becoming a licensed provider is a meaningful commitment. If you’re not ready to open your home, there are other ways to support individuals with developmental disabilities:
Volunteer at events or organizations
Become a licensed respite provider
Become a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate)
Serve as a surrogate parent for a child in foster care
Join the Foster Care Review Board
Every action makes a difference.
