General Information About Family Childcare Licensing

The family childcare regulations by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) include the following requirements for family childcare providers:

• The provider must be at least 18 years old and have at least one year of experience in caring for children.

• The provider, as well as all household members 15 years and older, must have a criminal background check.

• The provider must submit medical evidence that she is physically healthy and able to care for children.

• The provider must attend a family childcare orientation, have training in CPR and first aid, and attend an additional 15 hours of training every three years.

• The provider’s home must be safe, clean, and of sufficient size.

• Outdoor space in the yard must be free from hazards and of sufficient size.

• The provider must be able to appropriately supervise children at all times.

• The provider must have a written plan of daily activities that meets the developmental, cultural, and individual needs of children.

• The provider must have the necessary amount and variety of playtime and educational materials.

• The provider must be able to meet the physical and nutritional needs of children, including toileting, eating, napping, and cleanliness.

• The provider must be able to appropriately manage the behavior of all children.

• Written attendance, medical, and other records must be maintained about all children in care.

This license is valid for three years.

See www.mass.gov/edu/docs/eec/licensing/regulations/2010-reg-family-group-school-age-child-care-programs.pdf or call the EEC at (617) 988-6600 for more information.