DES now has a child care waiting list in place for most families applying to the program. Learn more about the waiting list on the Child Care Assistance page.
Become a DES Certified Family Child Care Provider
The Department of Economic Security (DES) certifies family child care providers to care for up to four children in their home. There is a great need for providers including those who care for infants and for homes that are available to provide care during evening, overnight, weekday and weekend hours. If you believe you meet the requirements to become a Certified Family Child Care Provider, please watch the following video and complete the pre-application.
To learn whether DES or DHS certification is right for you, visit the CCR&R Options page.
Eligibility & Required Documents
Some of the requirements for becoming a Certified Family Child Care Provider include:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Background check for provider and all household members aged 18 years and older.
- Fingerprint clearance card for provider and all household members aged 18 years and older
- Current immunization records for provider and all family members aged 13 years and younger
- Current proof of freedom from tuberculosis for provider and all household members
- Child care liability insurance
- Three references, professional or personal, whom you have known for at least one year
- A safe, healthy, and child friendly home environment.
