Frequently Asked Questions for Parents and Families
Where can I find a child care provider?
Check the Online Child Care Facilities Database. The website provides the public access to current information contained in the state’s Integrated Child Care Information System (ICCIS). This search finds child care providers currently licensed by the State of Alaska or Municipality of Anchorage who may or may not be participating in the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), as well as legally exempt providers participating in the CCAP.
Where can I find assistance for child care expenses?
PASS, also known as Parents Achieving Self Sufficiency, is a child care assistance program for eligible families who are working or participating in an education or training program. PASS is divided into three categories: PASS I, PASS II, and PASS III.
Alaska IN program is an enhanced referral and supplemental subsidy program for children with special needs.
For more information on child care assistance, visit the
Information for Parents and Families webpage.
I would like to file a complaint against a child care provider, who should I contact?
If you have a concern about an in-home child care or a child care center within Anchorage, contact the
Municipality of Anchorage’s Child Care Licensing Office.
What is Alaska IN!?
Alaska IN! is a state program that aims to improve child care provider skills, promote inclusive practices, and ensure CCAP families, including those with special needs, have access to child care.
What is thread?
thread is Alaska’s child care resource and referral network offering services to families, early childhood educators and education programs, and communities statewide. The organization started in 1985 as Child Care Connection in Anchorage. In 2009, it became thread, partnering with Thrivalaska and AEYC-SEA to provide statewide child care services until 2023. The name signifies the “common thread” connecting support for Alaska’s families and educators. Now, thread operates statewide with staff in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Wasilla, and the Kenai, supporting affordable, high-quality early childhood education for over three decades.
Frequently Asked Questions for Providers
How do I become a child care provider in Alaska?
- Identify the type of facility you want to open: Determine whether you want to run a child care home, a child care center, or an exempt facility.
- Visit Resources:
- Explore the Child Care Program Office (CCPO) website for providers or call the Child Care Program Office at 907-269-4500 or 888-268-4632 for guidance.
- If you're in Anchorage, contact the
Municipality of Anchorage’s Child Care Licensing Office for local regulations.
- Complete Required Forms: You can find the necessary forms for licensing and other administrative needs on the Child Care Forms webpage.
- Licensing: Review the requirements, such as background checks, facility inspections, and staff qualifications, through the CCPO or Municipality of Anchorage.
How do I file a complaint?
To file a report of concern regarding an incident involving a child in care or a complaint against a child care provider, email CCPO@alaska.gov or call the Child Care Program Office at 907-269-4500 or toll free at 888-268-4632.
How do I apply to receive payments from Child Care Assistance Programs?
Contact
thread, or
Alaska Family Services Inc., which are resource networks for families and child care providers, determined by region.
Is additional funding available if my facility takes care of special needs children?
Yes, if the facility and staff meet certain requirements and the child meets eligibility requirements. More information can be found at the
Alaska Inclusive Child Care Program page.
Resources and Reports
Welfare, Social Services and Institutions Regulation
PASS II / III Child Care Assistance Statute and Regulation
PASS I Child Care Assistance Statute and Regulation
Child Care Grant Statute and Regulation
Child Care Licensing Statute and Regulation
Hearings and Appeals Statute and Regulation
Policies and Procedures
Alaska Child Care and Development Fund Plan FFY2025-FFY2027
Market Price (Rate) Survey Reports
Supply and Demand
Child Care Program Office Reports
Economic Impact Reports
Child Care Provider Orientations
Child Care Provider Billing Training
Regulation Changes to 7 AAC 57 Child Care Facilities Licensing
Miscellaneous