Family Child Care (FCC) providers are essential, especially during these challenging times resulting from the Covid-19 global pandemic. We applaud providers who want are committed and diligent about seeking and maintaining accreditation.
Covid-19 Accreditation Extensions for Re-Accrediting Providers awaiting Observations
Covid-19 Extensiones de acreditación para proveedores de Re-acreditación en espera de observaciones
Accreditation Visit Options
The Standard Accreditation Observation selection will adhere to the normal accreditation process. If you selected this option, you will be given a 30-day window for the observation to be conducted. A NAFCC observer will be assigned to conduct your observation and will work with you to follow all Covid-19 site visit protocols and guidelines. Please make sure you review NAFCC quality standards and self-study documents to ensure you are prepared for your accreditation observation visit and your program has at least 2 children present during the visit.
The Virtual Accreditation Observation selection will be conducted online by an assigned observer. Selecting a Virtual/Online observation will require you to complete a Doodle Poll, which will be via email from a NAFCC accreditation staff member indicating your availability on a specific time and day to complete your observation.
This option is a two-prong process that entails the following:
1. You will be required to have a 1-hour Pre-Visit virtual observation the day before your scheduled observation. (For Example, if you select Tuesday, your Pre-Visit will take place on Monday for 1 hour).
2. On observation day, your assigned observer will conduct your observation via zoom for 4 to 5 hours. You will be assigned a Google folder once your observation has been scheduled to upload requested items from the observer and NAFCC Accreditation staff person.
Withdrawal – If a program cannot engage in an accreditation observation through participation in Option 1 (on-site visit) or Option 2 (virtual observation), the program is choosing to no longer pursue NAFCC accreditation. If this option is chosen, the program will be withdrawn and will expire on the expiration date. If you wish to become accredited again, you will be required to start the application again, including self-study for a minimum of six months.
Waiting for an Observation – What are my Next Steps?
Family Child Care providers who are already in the queue to receive an onsite/virtual observation will be contacted by a NAFCC staff person to determine availability and schedule a visit.
Provider Resources
Observer Resources
TA Provider Resources
Coming soon
General Resources
Accreditation FAQs
How will I be notified of my scheduled observation?
- If you select an Onsite/In-person observation, you will be given a 30-day window for the observation to be conducted.
- If you select a Virtual/Online observation, you will be sent a Doodle Poll to provide your specific date of availability, and you will be required to have a 1-hour Pre-Visit observation the day before your scheduled observation. (For Example, if you select Tuesday, your Pre-Visit will take place on Monday for 1 hour).
What platform do I need for a Virtual observation?
Virtual observations are through Zoom. Use the link below to download the free application before your scheduled observation.
https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting
What are the Zoom System Requirements?
- An internet connection – broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE)
- Speakers and a microphone – built-in, USB plug-in, or wireless Bluetooth
- A webcam or HD webcam – built-in, USB plug-in, or: An HD cam or HD camcorder with a video-capture card
Supported operating systems
- macOS X with macOS 10.9 or later
- Windows 10*, 8, & 7
Supported tablet and mobile devices
- iOS and Android devices
- Blackberry devices
- Surface PRO 2 or higher, running Windows 8.1 or higher
Supported browsers
- Windows: Internet Explorer 11+, Edge 12+, Firefox 27+, Chrome 30+
- macOS: Safari 7+, Firefox 27+, Chrome 3
- Linux: Firefox 27+, Chrome 30+
Note: Some features in the web client are not supported on Internet Explorer.
Are virtual observations longer or are they the same amount of time as in person?
The duration of a Virtual observation is 4 to 5 hours.
What is Doodle Poll?
Doodle is an online scheduling tool. Doodle offers several different ways to set up polls and surveys that will help you quickly and efficiently set up your next meeting or event.
Will my observation be in my preferred language?
We currently have 2 languages available for observations in English & Spanish.
When should I receive my score and decision after the observation?
You will receive your score and decision within 90days after the observation.
What if I don’t have enough children on the day of the observation?
You must at have at least 2 children to participate in a virtual observation. If not, you will have to contact the accreditation department to be rescheduled. All reschedules must happen within a 10-day window.
How can I re-schedule my Virtual Observation?
It is not recommended to re-schedule your virtual observation unless is in a case of emergency. You need to email your observer and accreditation@nafcc.org at least 24 hours in advance.
What are the COVID-19 guidelines for providers and observers?
Providers and observers are required to wear a mask.