Child Care Centers: Facilities where 12 or more children ages 6 weeks to 13 years may be cared for on a full-time or part-time basis. These facilities are required to be licensed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and must meet minimum requirements concerning health and safety. Centers are also required to have biannual inspections by a State Fire Marshall.
Certified Family Child Care Home: Facilities in which 3 to 12 children, not related to the caregiver, ages 6 weeks to 13 years may receive full-time or part-time care. They must meet minimum health and safety requirements, and are inspected biannually by a State Fire Marshall.
In-Home/ License Exempt
Caregivers: Homes in which no more than two children who are unrelated
to the caregiver, are cared for without a license. An In-Home License/Exempt
Caregiver can become a Care
for ME caregiver with the State
of Maine if they choose to go through state background checks.
School-Age Care: Care provided for children ages 5-16 during non-school hours. It is available in a variety of settings; schools, community centers, Y’s, religious organizations, child care centers and family child care homes. These programs must comply with DHHS regulations.
Nursery Schools: Facilities for 3 or more children under the age of 7 that provide half-day care, not including Kindergarten programs. Nursery Schools must be licensed by DHHS and meet minimum standards.
Head Start: This program offers educational programs to low-income preschool children including children with special needs. Other important services such as medical, dental, educational, mental health, and social services are also offered.
In-Home Care: A relative, nanny, friend or someone else that a family hires to care for child(ren) in the child’s home. This option is not regulated.
For more information, please call or email us.
Call toll-free
1-800-525-2229
Child Care in Kennebec and Somerset Counties