As used in this act:

    (a) "Department" means the department of education.

    (b) "Family child care network" or "network" means the networks created under section 5.

    (c) "Provider" means a home-based group child care home or family child care home licensed under 1973 PA 116, MCL 722.111 to 722.128.

    (d) "Region" means 1 of at least 4 areas of the state as determined by the department to provide technical assistance to child care providers.