close

A short-term federal shutdown currently has no immediate impact on DCYF programs. Learn more

Title

Child Care Accreditation

Intro

If you hold certain accreditations, you may be eligible to receive higher rates when serving children participating in the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

Featured Image
Early learning classroom with two early care and education providers
Widgets

Support available for becoming accredited

Reimbursement for half of the direct cost of child care center and family child care accreditation may be available. For information on the process visit the Accreditation Fee Reimbursement Request for Child Care Program (DHS-7683) (PDF). For more information, call 651-431-3809 or email ccs.ops.dcyf@state.mn.us.

Local Child Care Aware programs may have grants available to help with the accreditation process. Contact your local Child Care Aware agency by calling 888-291-9811 or visit Child Care Aware.

Approved accreditations

If you hold one of the accreditations below, you may be eligible to receive higher rates when serving children participating in the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). In addition, your program can pursue a fast-track Parent Aware Rating through the Accelerated Rating Pathway process and apply for reimbursement of half of the direct cost of accreditation fees.

Approval process

Use the CCAP Quality Differential Rate Request Form DHS-4795 (PDF) to identify qualifying credentials and/or accreditations and request the higher rate.

Become an accrediting organization

Accrediting organizations can apply to have their accreditation approved by the state of Minnesota. The application process is open each summer, with applications due by August 15. Accrediting organizations interested in applying should send an email to dcyf.ccap@state.mn.us. Read the accreditation approval process Frequently asked questions DHS-6450 (PDF) document to learn more.