Quality. Commitment. Excellence.
Continually learn, command better pay and be nationally recognized.
Our accreditation program servers as a cornerstone in a state professional development systems and informs policy makers. For professionals there are two paths, and many right ways to achieve accreditation!
Contact the accreditation team:
The team is always eager to assist and is just a message or call away.
- E-mail: Accreditation@nafcc.org
- Phone: 202-796-5700
- Office hours: The Accreditation team is here to help you. Starting in February:
Daytime office hours (1:30 pm EST, every other Thursday)
Click here to join
Evening office hours (7:00 pm EST, every other Thursday)
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Path to Accreditation
he NAFCC Accreditation Stage of Self-Study is the initial and foundational phase of the accreditation process for Family Child Care (FCC) educators. During this stage, educators commit to a reflective and comprehensive review of their program to ensure alignment with NAFCC Quality Standards. This stage focuses on intentional growth, program improvement, and preparation for accreditation. Educators formally begin this stage when they apply for Self-Study Enrollment through the Accreditation Portal.
Key components:
- Self-Assessment & Reflection: Review current practices against NAFCC Quality Standards to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Program Improvement Plan: Develop goals and make changes to align with quality standards.
- Documentation Gathering: Begin collecting evidence to demonstrate compliance with standards.
- Professional Growth: Engage in learning, coaching, and professional development to build capacity.
Cost: Member fee ($385) vs Non Member fee ($550)
Duration: Educators must remain in Self-Study for a minimum of six months and may not exceed three years.
The Accreditation Application Phase is the second stage of the NAFCC Accreditation journey, where educators formally apply to demonstrate their commitment to meeting NAFCC Quality Standards. This phase marks the transition from preparation to action as educators solidify their program improvements and readiness for accreditation. Educators must submit their Accreditation Application, License Consent Form, Program Information, Child Enrollment, and accompanying required documentation through the Accreditation Portal.
Key Components:
- Application Submission: Educators submit their completed application, including required documentation and fees.
- Program Verification: NAFCC reviews the submitted application to ensure it is complete and that the educator is prepared for the next steps in the accreditation process.
Scheduling Observation: Once the application is approved, educators work with NAFCC to schedule an on-site observation visit.
Continued Program Readiness: Educators maintain program quality improvements, finalize documentation, and prepare for the on-site observation.
Cost:
Application Fee: Member Fee: $615 | Non Member $850
Co-Educator Fee: Member Fee $150 | Non-Member $200
Duration: Reaccrediting educators may begin the Accreditation Application Phase six months before their Accreditation Expiration. All documentation must be submitted to NAFCC 90 days before Accreditation Award Expiration.
The Observation Phase is the third stage of the NAFCC Accreditation journey, where an on-site visit is conducted to evaluate the educator’s program in action and verify alignment with NAFCC Quality Standards. This phase provides an opportunity for educators to showcase their daily practices, environment, and program quality. Educators must keep updated records of their current Child Enrollment by visiting the Accreditation Portal.
Key Components:
- On-Site Observation: A trained NAFCC observer conducts an in-person visit to assess program practices, interactions, and the learning environment.
- Verification of Standards: The observer uses the NAFCC Quality Standards to evaluate the program and document evidence of compliance.
- Professionalism & Engagement: Educators demonstrate their commitment to high-quality care, professionalism, and responsiveness during the observation process.
Cost:
Included in the fees paid during the Accreditation Application Phase. Observation Reschedule fee is $100.00 and must be pre-approved by NAFCC.
Duration:
Educators receive a 4-6 week window for their unscheduled on-site observation. The on-site observation typically takes 4-6 hours and occurs on a day when the program is operating as usual.
The Scoring and Decision Phase is the fourth stage of the NAFCC Accreditation journey, where the results of the observation are reviewed, scored, and a decision is made regarding accreditation status. This phase reflects the culmination of an educator’s efforts to meet NAFCC Quality Standards.
Cost:
Included in the overall accreditation fees.
Duration:
Educators are typically notified of the decision within 45 days of the on-site observation.
Key Components:
- Scoring Review: NAFCC Scorers evaluates the family surveys, the educator’s Self-Certified Standards, and observer’s notes, ensuring all components of the Quality Standards have been fairly and thoroughly reviewed. Educators are responsible for submitting their Self-Certified Standards and additional Observation documentation within 48 hours of the visit through the Accreditation Portal.
- Accreditation Decision: A final determination is made based on the program’s performance during the observation and alignment with NAFCC standards. If a decision is not reached by the Scorer, NAFCC seeks council from the Accreditation Commission to make an Award Accreditation Decision.
- Notification: Educators receive both a digital and physical award decision letter outlining their accreditation status and areas of strength or improvement.
Possible Outcomes:
- Accredited: The program meets NAFCC Quality Standards and earns accreditation.
- Conditional Accreditation: The program may become accredited if they meet the requirements outlined by the Accreditation Commission.
- Deferred: The program needs to address specific areas of improvement before achieving accreditation.
- Denial: The program does not meet the threshold for accreditation.
The Maintenance Phase is the ongoing stage of the NAFCC Accreditation journey, ensuring that accredited programs maintain their commitment to NAFCC Quality Standards throughout the accreditation period. This phase includes continuous quality improvement and accountability. The 18-month update is designed to strengthen commitment to maintaining the quality standards, and encourage on-going professional development.
Key Components:
- 18-Month Update: Educators submit a required update to NAFCC 18 months after earning accreditation, which includes evidence of continued compliance with Quality Standards.
- Ongoing Quality Maintenance: Programs are encouraged to consistently reflect on and enhance their practices to sustain high-quality care.
- Professional Development: Educators engage in learning opportunities to stay current with best practices and standards in family child care.
- Compliance Verification: NAFCC may request documentation or conduct check-ins to confirm the program continues to meet standards.
Cost:
Member: $200
Non-Member: $240
Duration:
The Maintenance Phase spans the 3-year accreditation period, with the 18-month update serving as a required checkpoint. Educators must submit their 18-month Update through the NAFCC Accreditation Portal within 30 days before or after the 18-month anniversary of your accreditation.
NAFCC Accreditation Observation Scheduling
Deciding when to apply for NAFCC accreditation
| Application Date | Observation Date |
|---|---|
| January 31st | April-May |
| February 28th (29th) | May-June |
| March 31st | June-July |
| April 30th | July-August |
| May 31st | August-September |
| June 30th | September-October |
| Application Date | Observation Date |
|---|---|
| July 31st | October-November |
| August 31st | November-December |
| September 30th | December-January |
| October 31st | January-February |
| November 30th | February-March |
| December 31st | March-April |
NAFCC Accreditation Fees
Click here for more information
| Item | Member Fee | Non-member Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Study Enrollment Kit | $385 | $550 |
| Accreditation Application | $615 Co-provider Fee $150 |
$850 Co-provider Fee $200 |
| 18-Month Update | $200 | $240 |
Accreditation Application Bundle Packages
Bundle includes:
- Self-Study enrollment
- Accreditation Application – Observation
- 18-month update fee
| Member Fee | Non-Member Fee |
|---|---|
| $1085.00 *plus $45.00 annual membership fee | $1600.00 |
Accreditation Projects
Connect with these local and state agencies for assistance that may come in the form of opportunities to participate in support groups, mentoring, help in developing a quality improvement plan, or financial assistance including help paying the accreditation fee. Email accreditation@nafcc.org if you are interested in participating.
Learn More About NAFCC Accreditation Trainings
NAFCC offers specialized training opportunities to support those passionate about improving the quality of Family Child Care (FCC) through accreditation. These trainings are designed for individuals or agencies aiming to enhance their understanding and skills to promote and support accreditation efforts.
Accreditation Council
The NAFCC Accreditation Council is a dedicated group of professionals responsible for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the NAFCC Accreditation process. Committed to upholding high standards, the Council oversees policies, procedures, and decisions related to accreditation, ensuring consistency, fairness, and alignment with best practices in Family Child Care (FCC).
