Why Choosing a Licensed Early Learning Center Matters

When it comes to your child’s care and early education, peace of mind is everything. One of the most important (yet often overlooked) factors in choosing a program is whether it’s licensed.

Being licensed means a childcare center meets strict state regulations—covering everything from safety and cleanliness to staff qualifications and emergency preparedness. It’s not just a certificate on the wall; it’s a promise of accountability and care.

Ask Yourself-

• Does it matter that caregivers and centers are required to meet rigorous regulatory standards—including comprehensive background checks and training?

• Do I feel more confident knowing that the state regularly inspects to ensure everything is safe and compliant?

What to Look For-

At our centers, licensing shows up in everything we do:

✅ Our classrooms are designed for safety, with clear sight lines and secure access points.

✅ Every teacher completes training in CPR, child development, and emergency procedures.

✅ We post our licenses, inspection reports, and emergency plans so parents can see them anytime.

✅ Our leadership team regularly reviews compliance items so that standards don’t just stay met—they get stronger each year.

Licensed vs. Unlicensed Care: What’s the Difference?

When parents hear “licensed,” it can sound like just another box checked. But in reality, licensing changes everything about how a childcare program operates. Here’s how it looks in the real world:

What Families See	Licensed Center	Unlicensed or Informal Care
Safety & Inspections	Must pass regular, unannounced state inspections for safety, cleanliness, and building compliance.	No required inspections; safety standards vary by provider.
Teacher Qualifications	Teachers meet state training requirements, including CPR, first aid, and child development education.	No formal training required — skills vary widely.
Background Checks	Every staff member undergoes fingerprinting, FBI, and state background checks before hire.	May not require any screening or formal vetting.
Classroom Ratios	Must maintain regulated teacher-to-child ratios to ensure safety and supervision.	Ratios are not regulated; one caregiver may watch many children.
Emergency Preparedness	Required to have written emergency plans, drills, and staff training for fire, weather, or lockdowns.	Often no official emergency plan or documented safety procedure.
Health & Hygiene	Must follow sanitation protocols, food safety standards, and illness exclusion policies.	Hygiene and illness policies are at the provider’s discretion.
Accountability	Families can access inspection reports, complaint histories, and licensing details publicly.	No state oversight or public reporting system.
Peace of Mind	Backed by state oversight, required standards, and transparent accountability.	Relies on personal trust alone—no external verification.

In Short

A licensed center is one that’s committed to safety, professionalism, and transparency—values every family deserves in their child’s early education journey.

Choosing a licensed program means choosing confidence.

FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU