Provider Services
Interested in Becoming a Provider?
When you become a provider, you gain access to a range of free services to help you succeed, including:
✅ Application & Registration Assistance – Guidance throughout the entire licensing and registration process.
✅ Child Care Referrals – We refer parents looking for child care to your business, helping you grow.
✅ Technical Assistance – Expert support to answer questions and improve the quality of care you provide.
✅ Health Care Consultancy – Assistance in developing and maintaining your program’s health care plan.
✅ CACFP Meal Reimbursement – Get reimbursed for serving nutritious meals and snacks through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).
✅ Training Programs – Gain valuable skills with training on child development, business management, CPR, first aid, nutrition, and more—many at little to no cost.
Start your journey as a child care provider today! Contact Us to learn more about how to get started.
How to Become a NYS Child Care Provider:
Follow these simple steps to get started on your journey!
Step-by-Step Application Process
1️⃣ Complete the NYS OCFS Online Orientation Session – Learn the basics of becoming a provider.
2️⃣ Request & Submit Application Forms – Obtain and complete all necessary paperwork.
3️⃣ Complete Background Checks & Fingerprinting – Ensure safety and compliance.
4️⃣ Complete Required Inspections & Training – Meet all health and safety requirements.
5️⃣ Receive Your License/Registration & Open Your Business – Start providing child care services!
⏳ You Have 90 Days to Complete the Application Process!
Ready to begin? Apply Now or Contact Us for more information!
Looking to Enroll into CACFP?
Enrolling in CACFP comes with valuable benefits that support both child care providers and the children they serve. Best of all, participation is completely FREE!
✅ Nutritious Meals for Children – Ensures that children receive balanced, nutritious meals that meet USDA standards.
✅ Meal Planning Support – Providers receive guidance to plan healthy, diverse menus for children in their care.
✅ Free Training Opportunities – Access to CACFP-sponsored training on nutrition, meal preparation, and best practices.
✅ Financial Reimbursement – Providers are reimbursed for grocery expenses when serving CACFP-approved meals, including formula or breast milk for infants.
✅ Peace of Mind for Parents – Families can trust that their children are receiving high-quality, nutritious meals every day.
Join CACFP today and provide healthier meals while getting financial support!
FAQs
Key Requirements for Becoming a Licensed Child Care Provider:
• Must be 18+ years old
• Experience caring for young children (2 years OR 1 year + 6 training hours)
• Own or rent a home (renters must check with landlord)
• Home must have two exits and a first-floor daycare space with direct outdoor access
• Outdoor play area required
• Working phone in the home
• Background checks & fingerprinting for household members 18+
• Home inspections (initial & fire safety)
Training available in our offices! Call our registrars at at 315-343-2344 ext. 110 or 123.
Enhance Your Child Care Quality:
The Child Care & Development Council offers resources to help improve your care:
• Training: Various opportunities to meet requirements & enhance quality. Visit the Training Info section.
• Technical Assistance: On-site support to assess, answer questions, & develop improvement plans. Call (315) 343-2344 or visit Contact Us for details.
• Credential & Accreditation Support: Training, portfolio guidance, and observational assessments to help you earn credentials.
Resources for Child Care Providers:
• Financial Assistance: Eligible providers can apply for EIP scholarships for training. Visit www.ecetp.pdp.albany.edu or contact eip@pdp.albany.edu / (800) 295-9616.
• Connect with Providers: Join discussions on our Facebook page or the Contact Us section.
• Licensing & Regulations: Our Registrars can assist with NYS child care regulations. Call (315) 343-2344 (family/school-age care) or (315) 423-1202 (group family/child care centers). Visit the Office of Children and Family Services website for details.