This study sought to identify where family caregivers acquired their knowledge of children and child care and to determine which knowledge sources and influences may contribute most to specialized early childhood knowledge; such information may improve the effectiveness and efficiency of training programs for caregivers. In collaboration with the Iowa Resource and Referral System, a survey of home day care providers was conducted, asking them to identify and evaluate the sources of their knowledge about children. Data were analyzed for geographical and subgroup patterns that could be matched to particular training types, elements of training, and sources of knowledge. Although analysis of data revealed no significant differences for any caregiver subgroup, some preferences were found that may be useful for training organizers. For all groups, the most useful source of knowledge reported was parenting. The source of specific early childhood knowledge most cited was formal education courses. Results were insignificant pertaining to the most useful type of training reported, although some groups had preferences, which may be useful to trainers. For all groups of caregivers, announced topic of training was the most important factor in deciding to attend training. Recommendations include: (1) targeting caregivers as parents, rather than as caregivers; (2) collaborating with parent education agencies, the Child Care Food Program, and other organizations; (3) improving accessibility of information to caregivers; and (4) targeting training as determined by careful needs assessments. (References and the survey instrument are included.) (TM)