Business Support
Starting a child care program? The Child Care Licensing Toolkit helps you every step of the way. The toolkit is designed to build your knowledge of health and safety requirements, guide you as you create an intentional environment, empower you as a small business owner and promote long-term economic stability in your community. Whether you're just starting out or need guidance, this toolkit gives you the tools and support to succeed.
Health and Human Services contracts with Child Care Aware® of North Dakota, a program of the Southeast Education Cooperative (SEEC), to lead the Child Care Licensing Toolkit.
The Shared Services Alliance helps child care programs run their business more effectively. Members get training, easy-to-use software, and helpful tools to improve cash flow, support their staff, and stay connected with families.
Health and Human Services contracts with Child Care Aware® of North Dakota, a program of the Southeast Education Cooperative (SEEC), to lead the Shared Services Alliance.
Financial Support
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) provides federal funds to licensed, nonprofit child care programs so they can provide healthy meals and snacks. Its goal is to help children stay healthy and develop good eating habits while they are in child care.
Child Care Assistance Program
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps families cover part of their child care costs while they work or go to school. Payments are made directly to your program.
Grants are available to help your child care program start, grow, recover, or improve quality. You can apply for funding to make facility improvements, expand your program, improve quality, or offer more care options.
If you work with children in an early childhood setting, you can be rewarded for completing training, taking college classes, earning certificates or degrees, advancing your Career Pathway, or completing a Child Development Associate (CDA) verification visit.
Quality Improvement Support
Bright & Early ND is North Dakota's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). We offer ongoing support, specialized training, and financial incentives to help you deliver high-quality care and grow your skills as an early childhood professional.
Specialized Support
Health and Human Services contracts with USpireND to help child care providers access the resources they need to support inclusive practices for all children. Meeting the diverse needs of children while managing daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming. That’s why experienced Inclusion Coaches are available to guide you with compassion and expertise. They help you feel supported and confident in creating early childhood environments where every child can thrive.
The Pyramid Model is a clear, step-by-step approach that helps you create a safe, caring, and consistent child care environment. It builds on children's skills, helps prevent problem behaviors, and prepares them for lifelong success. It works for all children, including those who need extra help.
Questions? Contact Us
Early Childhood
North Dakota Health and Human Services
600 E. Boulevard Ave., Dept. 325
Bismarck, ND 58505-0250
Phone: (701) 328-2115
Toll-Free: (800) 997-8516
Relay ND TTY: 711
Email: dhsec@nd.gov