For parents in the Army seeking dependable and enriching child care, understanding the benchmarks of quality is paramount. National accreditation serves as a vital criterion in evaluating the excellence of a child care program. Both family child care homes and child care centers can pursue accreditation to demonstrate a commitment to exceeding basic licensing standards and providing superior care.
These accredited programs are designed to offer the nurturing environment, focused attention, and stimulating educational activities that parents prioritize. Beyond basic care, they deliver experiences meticulously crafted to foster a child’s holistic growth and development, effectively preparing them for the transition to school and future learning.
For Army families, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) program is a valuable resource, enabling access to quality child care in the community. To qualify for MCCYN, sponsors must choose a child care provider that holds accreditation from a recognized national agency. The accreditation requirements differ slightly between child care centers and family child care settings:
Accreditation Standards for Child Care Centers:
Child care centers aiming to participate in the MCCYN program must secure accreditation from one of the nationally approved accreditation bodies. To identify the specific accreditations that fulfill the criteria for the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) initiative, please consult Child Care Aware® of America. This resource provides comprehensive details on approved accreditations and the application process.
High-Quality Credentials for Family Child Care Providers:
Family child care providers seeking MCCYN eligibility have several pathways to meet the high-quality credential requirement. These include:
- Child Development Associate (CDA) credential: Awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, the CDA credential is a widely recognized benchmark of competency in early childhood education.
- Associate’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or Child Development: Academic qualifications in these fields signify a provider’s in-depth knowledge and commitment to professional development.
- National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Accreditation: NAFCC accreditation is specifically tailored for family child care settings, ensuring adherence to quality standards unique to home-based care.
To further assist Army families in their search for quality child care, Child Care Aware® of America maintains a searchable list of providers who have previously participated in fee assistance programs. If you identify a potential provider through this tool, it is essential to confirm that the facility currently meets the eligibility criteria established by your specific Army branch and program before tuition assistance can be approved. For any questions regarding provider eligibility, please reach out to the help hotline at 1-800-424-2246 for direct support and clarification.
Choosing an accredited program within the Army child care system ensures that your child is in a nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment that supports their growth and prepares them for future success.
