QUALITY CHILD CARE MATTERS
The first five years of a child's life are critical learning years. 90% of child brain is developed by the age of 5. Positive and secure relationships between caregiver and child, including parents and child care providers are an important aspect to successful child development. Early learning experiences can have an effect on life-long successes.
Quality Indicators in Child Care
LICENSED OR REGISTERED BY THE STATE OF MONTANA
PARTICIPATES IN THE BEST BEGINNINGS STARS TO QUALITY PROGRAM
WHAT IS LICENSED CHILD CARE?
Licensed child care means that a child care provider is licensed or registered through the state of Montana's Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and has met all the health, safety, and program requirements. There are two types of licensed child care:
1. Licensed child care center
2. Registered family or group home child care
In both cases, the facility is required to be inspected by Child Care Licensing within the Early Childhood Services Bureau. Licensed child care centers are also required to be inspected by their county health department and fire marshal.
Unannounced inspections are conducted annually by Child Care Licensing for both types of licensed child care to ensure the facility continue to meet all requirements.
*EXCEPTION: Preschool Programs are not required to be licensed or registered in the state of Montana, but may still follow similar guidelines and provide a quality learning environment.
What is STARS to Quality?
The Best Beginnings STARS to Quality Program is a pay for performance program that helps child care providers improve and communicate their quality to parents. It is also referred to as a Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS).
Key components:
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Voluntary participation for licensed child care providers
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Free STARS approved professional development
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Free fingerprinting service for STAR 1 and above
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5 star system with research based and national best practice standards
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Professional coaching and consulting
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Financial incentives
Who benefits from STARS ?
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All children and families in participating programs
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Children with high needs
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The Montana early childhood workforce