Seeing Stars: Child Care Rating

Some states are developing child care rating systems. These systems vary, but often prove to be win-win situations for both the child care programs and the familes they provide service for. Most of the time advancement in the rating system is tied to increased compensation or monetary rewards, plus it is a motivating and measurable way for a program to improve. For families, these rating systems offer a snapshot guide in selecting quality care.

Usually the first star is awarded to any program that meets minimum licensing or registration standards. Additional stars are awarded to show a program has exceeded standards in select areas that may include: accreditation, additional training, smaller group size, parent involvement efforts and more.

Kentucky: Stars for Kids Now

• Voluntary
• Both center and family daycare can participate
• Both cash awards and increased subsidy is available.
• Four levels are identified

North Carolina

• All programs are rated.
• Programs must apply for a rating beyond one star.Application is voluntary
• Both center and family daycare can participate
• Tied to increased subsidy
• Five levels are identified

Pennsylvania: Keystone Stars

• Voluntary
• Only center programs for now
• Merit awards for achievement
• Four levels are identified

Tennessee: Star-Quality Child Care

• Voluntary
• Both center and family daycare programs
• Tied to higher reimbursement rates
• Three levels are identified

Oklahoma: Reaching for the Stars

• Both center and family daycare programs
• Tied to increased subsidy
• Four levels are identified

Copyright 2004 ~Joni Levine