Choosing Quality Child Care
Get information on the right child care service for your family
Choosing child care is an important decision for families. Visiting programs, asking questions, and reviewing licensing information can help families feel confident about their choice.
Families in Alaska can also receive free help finding child care through thread, Alaska’s Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) organization. thread helps families understand child care options, search for available programs, and identify quality child care settings.
Families participating in the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can access thread’s services at no cost to help find and evaluate child care options.
Get Help Finding Child Care (thread)
thread can help families search for child care, understand their options, and connect with programs that meet their needs.
Families are also encouraged to review inspection reports and provider information through the Alaska Child Care Information System (AKCCIS) when considering programs.
Find Child Care Providers (AKCCIS)
Search for licensed child care providers and review inspection history and compliance information via AKCCIS.
Steps for Choosing Child Care
Finding child care that meets your family’s needs can take time. The steps below can help families compare options and make informed decisions.
Step 1: Identify your family’s needs
Consider:
- Your child’s age and developmental needs
- Location of the program
- Hours of care needed
- Transportation options
- Cost and available financial assistance
Step 2: Search for child care providers
Families can search for providers using:
- AKCCIS to locate licensed providers and view inspection reports
- thread, Alaska’s Child Care Resource & Referral organization, for help finding available programs
thread can provide personalized referrals and help families understand their options and is free for families participating in Child Care Assistance.
Step 3: Contact providers
Ask about:
- Openings or waitlists
- Program schedules and daily routines
- Tuition and payment policies
- Staff qualifications and training
Step 4: Visit the program
If possible, visit the child care program before enrolling your child. During a visit, families may want to observe:
- How caregivers interact with children
- Cleanliness and safety of the environment
- Learning activities and play opportunities
- Supervision and child-to-caregiver ratios
Step 5: Review licensing and inspection information
Families can review inspection reports and licensing history through AKCCIS to learn more about a provider’s compliance with state requirements.
Families who need help with these steps can contact thread for support during the search process.