Program Standards

Standards are agreed-upon markers of quality established in areas critical to effective programming and child outcomes. Standards create a common definition of quality for child care providers, policymakers, and the general public and can be used as a consumer education tool for parents. Program standards may be found in licensing standards, quality rating and improvement system standards, or other quality improvement initiatives.

Lead Agencies may be asked in the CCDF Plan whether their state is supporting the development or adoption of high-quality program standards relating to health, mental health, nutrition, physical activity, and physical development.

Resources: Program Standards