Get Started
Opening Your Own Child Care Program
Getting Started
How We Can Help
If you have a passion for working with children, and a desire to create a safe and nurturing environment, early childhood may be the right path for you! Becoming a child care provider can be a deeply rewarding journey, and Child Care Connections is here to help you navigate the steps to make it a reality.
Our team will walk you through the essential requirements, qualifications, and and practical steps needed to establish yourself as a trusted child care professional. Whether you’re a seasoned educator, or someone considering a career change, we’re here to support you with the information and resources needed to open your own child care program. You can start making a positive impact on the lives of children and their families today. See below for more resources and learn how to get started!
Getting Started
Our Provider Support Team
Tammy and Larisa are Child Care Connections’ Provider Support Specialists. Equipped with years of experience in early childhood care and education, they support new providers by offering their guidance and expertise to build a successful program. Our New Provider Support Specialists will guide you to choose a child care setting that fits your goals, help you navigate the licensing process and access professional development opportunities. Connect with Tammy (located in our Bozeman office), or Larisa (located in our Helena office) to schedule an informational meeting, and start your journey to opening your own child care program!
Tammy Christofferson
Tammy supports child care providers in Gallatin, Park, and Meagher counties.
406-548-3671
Larisa Moe
Larisa supports child care providers in Lewis & Clark, Jefferson, and Broadwater counties.
406-548-3659
larisa@cccmontana.org
Getting Started
Helpful Resources
One of the first steps to opening your own child care program is deciding what type of care you would like to offer. There are 3 types of regulated care in the state of Montana, Child Care Centers, Family Child Care, and Group Child Care. Learn more about these settings below, and find resources to help you start your journey.
Child Care Centers
Child Care Centers are run in a larger settings, designed to accommodate a large number of children, and are staffed by multiple caregivers. Centers often offer structured environments with multiple classrooms and play areas that support early learning and development. In the state of Montana, Child Care Centers are licensed for 16 or more children.
Centers go through a more intense and lengthy licensing process. For Complete licensing information please visit: https://www.dphhs.mt.gov/ecfsd/childcare/childcarelicensing/
You can find a helpful resource to get you started below:
Family, Friends, & Neighbors
With this type of child care, parents select an individual, often a family member, friend, or neighbor to care fore all children in one family group, or up to 4 unrelated children. This is a great option to meet the needs of families who need individualized care based on their unique needs. For an application please click here. Click here for orientation requirements.
Family or Group Child Care
Family and Group Care Programs typically take place in a residential setting, catering to a smaller group of children. These programs often offer a more intimate and family-like atmosphere, flexible routines, and a personalized approach to children’s early development and care. In the state of Montana, Family Child Care Programs can care for up to 8 children with one caregiver. Group Child Care Programs can serve up to 15 children at any given time with 2 caregivers.
Interested in opening a child care program in your home? Click HERE for a helpful toolkit to get you started! You can find more resources to help you get started below:
