Accreditation

What is Accreditation?

• Accreditation defines standards of high quality in the field of early care and education.
• Accreditation promotes providers' and programs' self-assessment and professional development.
• Accreditation helps parents and policy makers recognize "Programs of Quality." In Maine, parents of children in accredited programs receive a double tax credit on their state income tax.
• Accreditation promotes the development of professionalism in the field of early care and education. 
• For accredited providers or programs with state contracts or who accept vouchers, a 10% differential in reimbursement rates will be awarded.

National child care organizations offer Accreditation to child care providers and programs.
The National Association of Family Child Care accredits family child care providers.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children accredits center-based child care programs.
The National After School Association accredits school-age care providers.

Maine Roads to Quality provides support and services to child care providers and programs seeking Accreditation. Visit the Maine Roads to Quality website or contact them to get more information about their Accreditation Facilitation Project.

Maine Roads to Quality: Child Care and Early Education Career Development Center
Muskie School of Public Service
One Post Office Square
PO Box 15010
Portland, ME 04112
1-888-900-0055
Fax (207) 780-5817