
🌟 Welcome to the Kentucky Campaign for Child Care - where safety meets excellence! 🌟
Join us in our mission to ensure every child's well-being by becoming a licensed/certified provider. By becoming a licensed/certified provider, you not only increase the standards of care but also contribute to building a safer and healthier environment for our children. Take the step towards licensure/certification today and be a vital part of shaping a brighter future for Kentucky's children!
Our purpose is to ensure all providers of child care in the commonwealth are licensed, certified, or exempt in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
Types of Child Care
Licensed Provider Type I and Type II - A licensed type I child care facility is a facility that regularly provides child care services for four or more children in a non-residential setting or 13 or more children in a residential setting. A licensed type II child care facility is the primary physical location where child care is regularly provided for at least seven, but no more than 12, children including no more than 12 children related to the licensee.
Certified Family Child Care - Care provided in a caregiver's own home for no more than six unrelated and no more than four related children at any time (total of 10 children).
Registered Relative Provider - A family member who cares for children in his or her own home or the child's home. A registered relative provider may not care for more than six children related to the caregiver or more than eight children inclusive of their own children.
Nonregulated Child Care - The Division of Regulated Child Care does not regulate providers who care for three or fewer children not related to them. Providers who care for more than three children not related them must be certified or licensed unless they fall into the exempt category. All exempt child care settings can be found 922 KAR 2:090 Child-care licensure in Section 3.
Why Become a Child Care Provider
Make a Difference: Shape young minds and impact their futures.
Daily Joy: Experience the joy of watching children grow and learn.
Rewarding Work: Enjoy a career filled with meaningful moments and smiles.
Creative Freedom: Use your creativity to design fun and engaging activities.
Community Connection: Build strong relationships with families and make lasting friendships.
Flexible Hours: Find a schedule that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Personal Growth: Develop new skills and gain valuable experience.
Job Security: Join a field with strong demand and long-term stability.
Benefits For Kids
Social Skills: Develop friendships and learn to interact with others.
Emotional Growth: Gain confidence and build self-esteem in a supportive environment.
School Readiness: Engage in fun educational activities that promote early learning.
Routine & Structure: Enjoy a stable routine that supports daily habits and responsibilities.
Creativity: Explore creativity through arts, crafts, and imaginative play.
Physical Activity: Stay active with various physical games and activities.
Independence: Learn to take initiative and solve problems on their own.
Safe Environment: Experience a secure and caring setting where they are valued and protected.
Getting Started
Licensed Type I Providers
Child Care Aware staff meets with new providers on a regular basis. Contact the Kentucky partnership for early childhood services to find a health and safety coach in your area and inquire about scheduled Getting Started meetings for new child care providers.
Certified Family Child Care/Type II
The Family Child Care Network (FCCN) has specialists across the state to assist in all aspects of opening and maintaining homes for regulated child care. The FCCN provides technical assistance and training. Email FCCNor call toll free
(800) 621-5908
to reach the correct specialist in your area.
Child Care Provider Requirements
Child care center operators must follow regulations that outline minimum health and safety standards. A complete list of child care regulations can be found in 922 KAR Chapter 2.
The Division of Child Care and partners have created standards of practice to help providers understand the rules and standards for each provider type.
In 922 KAR 2:120. Child-care center health and safety standards. Outdoor activity is restricted based upon temperature and weather conditions. This Child Care Weather Watch guide can assist providers in understanding if the weather is unsafe.
How to become a licensed provider
KY Campaign for Child Care Brochure.pdf