When it comes to choosing care for your child, safety, trust, and quality matter. That’s why licensed Family Child Care Homes are such a smart choice for Ohio families. These in-home programs offer the warmth of a home setting—backed by the protections and standards of state licensing.
1. Health & safety standards you can trust
In Ohio, Family Child Care Homes licensed by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth must meet strict health, safety, and training requirements. Providers complete background checks, home inspections, and ongoing professional development in CPR, first aid, emergency preparedness, and child development. These providers are monitored regularly to ensure they meet licensing rules that prioritize your child’s well-being.
2. Small, personalized care with professional oversight
Licensed homes care for a small number of children—up to 6 in Type B homes or up to 12 in Type A homes with additional staff. This allows for personalized, relationship-based care, where children can grow in a consistent, nurturing environment. Many providers also participate in Ohio’s Step Up To Quality program, a state-run initiative that supports quality improvement in early learning programs.
3. Access to financial support
Only licensed providers can participate in Ohio’s Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program, which offers child care assistance to income-eligible working families. Choosing a licensed provider may mean you qualify for help covering the cost of care—making it a more affordable option than private sitters or unlicensed caregivers.
4. Help finding the right program—with Starting Point
At Starting Point, we’re here to help you find a licensed Family Child Care Home that meets your needs. As the state-designated child care resource and referral agency for Northeast Ohio, we maintain an up-to-date database of licensed programs and provide personalized referrals based on your preferences—like location, schedule, language, and ages served. Our team will walk you through your options, so you can feel confident and supported in your decision.
5. Supporting providers, too
Starting Point doesn’t just connect families to care—we also support licensed family child care providers with training, business coaching, and resources to help them grow and thrive. We believe when providers are supported, children and families benefit.
Licensed Family Child Care Homes offer the best of both worlds—cozy, home-based care and the peace of mind that comes with meeting state standards. With Starting Point as your trusted guide, you don’t have to navigate the search alone. We’re here to help you find safe, high-quality care that works for your family.
