Infant Formula Shortages 

On May 12, 2022, Governor Hochul announced resources for New York families amid nationwide infant formula shortages. Please visit the OCFS website for details or go to the Governor's site for more information. Please share this information with impacted families!

Do you know: you cannot see, smell, or taste lead in water? 

Testing is the only way to know if lead is present. The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is proud to be implementing the Lead Testing in Drinking Water Program, at no cost, for licensed and registered child care facilities. Please visit the OCFS webpage for more information and to learn all the details about this program.

Sabe usted que: ¿no puede ver, oler o probar el plomo en el agua? 

Haciendo una prueba es la única forma de saber si hay plomo presente. La Oficina de Servicios para Niños y Familias (OCFS, por sus siglas en inglés) se enorgullece de implementar el Programa de Pruebas de Plomo en el Agua Potable, sin costo alguno, para centros de cuidado infantil autorizados y registrados. Visite la página web de la OCFS para obtener más información y conocer todos los detalles sobre este programa.

The eLearning "Identifying and Responding to Anaphylaxis: Elijah’s Law" is now available in Spanish. 

This valuable training will help you prepare for preventing and responding to allergic reactions in children.

The course provides 1 hour of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Principles of Childhood Development
• Safety and Security Procedures
• Business Record Maintenance and Management

Please note, this course is also available as an On-Demand Training. Check out the On-Demand section of our website for more information.

El eLearning "Identificando y respondiendo a la anafilaxia: la Ley de Elijah" se encuentra ahora disponible en español. 

Este valioso entrenamiento le ayudará a prepararse para prevenir y responder a reacciones alérgicas en los niños

El curso provee 1 hora de entrenamiento en los siguientes temas de entrenamiento de OCFS:

• principios de desarrollo de la niñez
• procedimientos de seguridad y protección
• mantenimiento y manejo de los registros de la empresa

Por favor note, este curso también se encuentra disponible en entrenamiento bajo demanda (On-Demand). Verifique nuestra sección de Bajo Demanda en la página web para más información.

Approval for virtual training has been extended through 12/31/2022. 

Approval for virtual training has been extended through 12/31/2022. You must have prior approval to deliver virtual training. Please review and complete this Questionnaire to be considered for approval.

For Licensed, Registered, or Legally Exempt Group Providers... 

Effective March 2, 2022, masks are no longer required in child care programs. Children and staff may continue to wear a mask if they prefer to do so.

• March 1, 2022 Dear Provider Letter - Updated Child Care Mask Guidance (English)

Efectivo marzo 2, 2022, las máscaras no serán requeridas en los programas de cuidado infantil. El personal y los niños pueden continuar usando una máscara si así lo prefieren.

• March 1, 2022 Dear Provider Letter - Updated Child Care Mask Guidance (Spanish)

Directors and Trainers: have you started your 2022 planning? 

Are you looking for in-service training opportunities? On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to 21 training topics. They include handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand Training sessions. Directors and/or qualified trainers in child day care centers and school-age child care programs can apply to become On-Demand Trainers. Learn more about On-Demand Training!

The newest eLearning course, "Child Care Requirements and Resources for Legally Exempt Providers" is available for training. 

This fully narrated course explains how to use the resources in the Enrollment Information Packet for Legally Exempt Providers (OCFS-7026) to promote children's health and safety. It summarizes circumstances under which providers are required to contact families and enrollment agencies. The course also describes the different kinds of inspections that programs and providers may undergo, how to prepare for them, and what to expect during an inspection.

This course will provide you with 1.5 hours of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Safety and Security
• Nutrition and Health
• Business Records
• Statutes and Regulations Pertaining to Child Day Care
• Child Care Program

Register today.

Part 415 Child Care Services (child care subsidy, legally exempt providers) is now available in Spanish. 

Check out OCFS's Child Care Regulations and Policies page to review Part 415 in Spanish. It’s available as a PDF or downloadable Word document.

Parte 415 Servicios de Cuidado Infantil (cuidado infantil subsidiado, proveedores legalmente exentos) ya está disponible en español. 

Vea la página de OCFS Regulaciones y Pólizas para revisar la Parte 415 en español. Se encuentra disponible en formato PDF o documento descargable en Word.

Si su enlace no se encuentra automáticamente traducido al español, siga las siguientes instrucciones para traducir la página de OCFS al español: una vez en la página, deslice en la pantalla hasta que vea una opción de color púrpura a su mano izquierda que lee "Translate this page", seleccione la opción, seleccione "Select Language" y finalmente seleccione "Spanish" de la lista de opciones.

MAT Scholarship Progran Beginning January 2, 2022. 

The MAT Rebate Program will be become the MAT Scholarship Program beginning January 2022! All child care providers and employees in New York State working in family day care, group family day care, school-age child care, day care centers, small day care centers or legally exempt providers are eligible. Read more information about the MAT Scholarship.

El Programa de Incentivos Educativos (EIP) 2022. 

Cuidado Infantil del Estado de Nueva York, Programa de Incentivos Educativos: Solicitud de beca y folleto informativo (2022).

Registration is now open for all 2022 Virtual Class offerings! 

These interactive trainings on a variety of early education topics offer you a chance to interact with other providers to share ideas and best practices. Class size is limited, so be sure to register for Virtual Class training and secure your seat today!

Have you taken the "Identifying and Responding to Anaphylaxis: Elijah's Law" e-Learning yet? 

This valuable training will you help prepare for preventing and responding to allergic reactions in children.

The course provides 1 hour of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Principles of Childhood Development
• Safety and Security Procedures
• Business Record Maintenance and Management

Please note, this course is also available as an On-Demand Training. Check out the On-Demand section of our website for more information.

Directors and Trainers— are you looking for in-service training opportunities? 

On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to 21 training topics. They include handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand Training sessions. Directors and/or qualified trainers in child day care centers and school-age child care programs can apply to become On-Demand Trainers.

You can also apply to deliver On-Demand Training virtually through 6/30/22. Our 21 On-Demand courses are now available for scheduling from today until 9/30/22. Learn more about On-Demand Training!

Attention Training Organizations: Approval for Virtual Training has been extended through 06/30/2022. 

OCFS will allow previously approved classroom training and newly approved virtual training (submitted through EIP Event Approval or Aspire Training Approval process) to be delivered using a virtual platform. In order for participants to receive training credits a written request to conduct trainer-led virtual training must be submitted to the Professional Development Program at Rockefeller College University at Albany (PDP), in consultation with OCFS, for review and approval. The training must be facilitated by a credentialed trainer. Complete and submit this survey to be considered for approval.

EIP is now accepting applications for the 2022 scholarship year. 

We are pleased to announce an upgraded application system with the start of the 2022 scholarship year. The new features remove nearly 100% of paper-based communications. Applicants will upload application supporting documents during the application submission process. Applications and awards will be signed electronically, and notifications regarding status changes and reminder emails will be automatically sent. Training must begin and end in 2022 to be considered for a scholarship.

The 2021 scholarship year is now closed, and we are no longer accepting applications.

Today is the LAST DAY to apply for a Child Care Stabilization Grant! 

Check out OCFS's Child Care Stabilization Grant web page for information on eligibility and how to apply.

OCFS is holding its final informational session today, Nov. 30th, at 1pm. You can find details on the session, in English and Spanish, in this flyer.

The ECETP web site and Training Portal site will be temporarily unavailable on December 2nd from 5am-8am. 

We thank you in advance for your patience while we conduct important maintenance.

Tomorrow is the LAST DAY to apply for a Child Care Stabilization Grant. 

Check out OCFS's Child Care Stabilization Grant web page for information on eligibility and how to apply.

OCFS is also holding informational sessions today, Nov. 29th, and tomorrow, Nov. 30th. You can find details on these informational sessions, in English and Spanish, in this flyer.

November 30th is the LAST DAY to apply for Child Care Stabilization Grants. 

You can use Child Care Stabilization Grant money to pay for food, food services, and equipment and materials for mealtimes! Check out this Child Stabilization Grant PDF for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page.

El 30 de noviembre es el ÚLTIMO DÍA para solicitar la Subvención de Estabilidad de Cuidado Infantil. 

¡Puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar alimentos y servicios alimentarios, y equipos y materiales para las comidas! Mire este PDF de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información. ¿Preguntas? Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización.

Do you need to make physical changes to your program because of COVID-19? 

You can use Child Care Stabilization grant money to pay for things like upgrading playgrounds, installing touch-free faucets, and replacing carpet with linoleum. Check out this Child Care Stabilization Grant video for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page.

¿Necesita realizar cambios físicos a su programa debido a COVID-19? 

Puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar cosas como mejorar las áreas de juegos, instalar llaves sin contacto y reemplazar las alfombras con linóleo. Mire este video de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información. ¿Preguntas? Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización.

Are you or your staff interested in getting a COVID-19 booster? 

You can use Child Care Stabilization Grant money to pay for support for getting the COVID-19 vaccine. This can include appointments, paid sick leave, and transportation costs. Watch these Child Care Stabilization Grant videos for more information:

• Mira el video en español
• Watch the video in English

Remember, the last day to apply for a Child Care Stabilization Grant is Nov. 30th!

November 30th is the LAST DAY to apply for Child Care Stabilization Grants. 

OCFS is holding an informational session today, Nov. 22nd at 2pm. They’ll be holding more sessions next week. Check out this flyer for more information in English and Spanish.

November 30th is the LAST DAY to apply for Child Care Stabilization Grants. 

Only 11 days left! Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page to apply.

El 30 de noviembre es el ÚLTIMO DÍA para solicitar la Subvención de Estabilidad de Cuidado Infantil. 

¡Solo quedan 11 días! Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización para presentar su solicitud.

Did you know you can use Child Care Stabilization Grant money to pay for Personnel Costs, Child Care Costs, Employee benefits, and so much more? 

Don't hesitate, check out this video now for more information!

Did you know the Child Care Stabilization Grant can help you pay for childhood mental health supports as well as mental health consultations for staff? 

You can use Child Care Stabilization grant money to pay for Infant Toddler and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultations, as well as other types of mental health supports for your staff (training & development, stress management, and program materials and supplies). Don’t delay! Check out this this Child Care Stabilization Grant PDF for more information!

¿Sabía que puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar apoyos para la salud mental infantil y consultas de salud mental para el personal? 

Puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar consultas de salud mental para bebés y niños pequeños, y otros tipos de apoyo de salud mental para el personal (entrenamiento, manejo del estrés, y suministros y materiales del programa). ¡No se demore! Mire este PDF de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información.

Child Care Stabilization Grants. 

Apply now for a Child Care Stabilization Grant! The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is making federal funding available directly to qualified child care providers. The purpose of these grants is to help you cover unexpected business costs from the COVID-19 pandemic, and help stabilize your program so you can resume or continue providing high-quality child care. To be eligible, your program must be in good standing and be a licensed/registered, permitted NYC day care center (Article 47), or an enrolled legally exempt group program as of March 11, 2021. This grant is not a loan so you don't have to pay it back. Just complete the quick and easy online application. If you're approved, you'll have to keep records (receipts, invoices, etc.) of how you spend the money. The online application and information are available in English, Spanish, and multiple other languages! Find out more by going to the Stabilization Help Center website, calling the Stabilization Help Line (844-863-9319), or by contacting your local CCR&R, union representative (CSEA or UFT), or WHEDco. These grants are an historic investment in the field of child care. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and apply!

Do you serve three- and four-year-old children? Do they get bussed to your program... or not? 

Your participation in a brief survey on Transportation for three- and four-year-olds to Early Childhood sites is needed! All answers will be confidential. This survey was created to learn more about the availability of transportation for this age group to early child care sites, particularly those located in rural areas, and to identify what barriers may exist to transporting them. Please help us learn more by forwarding this important information.

Attention Parents and Caregivers in NYS who have children who are newborn to 5 years old: You may be eligible to receive a $25 Target Gift Card for your participation! 

The NYSB5 team at the Council on Children and Families are working with their partners at the Center for Human Services Research and setting up virtual focus groups to hear from NYS parents and caregivers about their experiences with child care and early childhood programs and services. They would like you to spread the word with your networks and community members. Find the zoom link, meeting number, and your region at the Council of Children and Families NYSB5 page.

Has COVID-19 affected your ability to pay business-related expenses? 

Did you know you can use Child Care Stabilization Grant money to pay for things like utilities, rent or mortgage payments, and even late fees from past business expenses? Watch this Child Care Stabilization Grant video for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page.

¿COVID-19 ha afectado su capacidad para pagar los gastos relacionados con el negocio? 

¿Sabía que puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar cosas como servicios públicos, alquiler o pago de cualquier obligación hipotecaria e incluso cargos por mora de su negocio? Mire este video de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información. ¿Preguntas? Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización.

Directors and Trainers—are you looking for in-service training opportunities? 

On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to 20 training topics. They include handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand Training sessions. Directors and/or qualified trainers in child day care centers and school-age child care programs can apply to become On-Demand Trainers. Learn more about On-Demand Training!

Do you need to make physical changes to your program because of COVID-19? 

You can use Child Care Stabilization grant money to pay for things like upgrading playgrounds, installing touch-free faucets, and replacing carpet with linoleum. Check out this Child Care Stabilization Grant video for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page.

¿Necesita realizar cambios físicos a su programa debido a COVID-19? 

Puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar cosas como mejorar las áreas de juegos, instalar llaves sin contacto y reemplazar las alfombras con linóleo. Mire este video de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información. ¿Preguntas? Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización.

The newest e-Learning course, "What Is Legally Exempt Child Care?," is available for training. 

This fully narrated course is targeted to enrolled legally exempt providers and people interested in becoming enrolled legally exempt providers. The training discusses why enrolled legally exempt child care might be the right option for families, or un-enrolled providers. It defines the different types of legally exempt child care. Finally, it gives participants an overview of the New York State regulations enrolled legally exempt providers must follow.

This course will provide you with 1 hour of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Child Day Care Program Development
• Statutes and Regulations Pertaining to Child Day Care

Register for the newest e-Learning course, "What Is Legally Exempt Child Care?" today!

Did you know you can use Child Care Stabilization Grant money to pay for Personnel Costs, Child Care Costs, Employee benefits, and so much more? 

Don't hesitate, check out this video now for more information!

Explore Early Childhood Career Pathways and Opportunities. 

Eight Regional Early Childhood Career Development Centers conveniently located across NYS offer comprehensive career advisement and development services at no cost to all current and aspiring early childhood professionals. Take advantage of these free services to plan your professional development activities and enhance your career. Visit the New York Early Childhood Professional Development Institute for more information or to explore the Job Board.

October is Eat Better, Eat Together Month. 

You can use Child Care Stabilization grant money to pay for food, food services, and equipment and materials for mealtimes! Check out this Child Stabilization Grant PDF for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page.

Octubre es el Mes de comer mejor juntos. 

¡Puede utilizar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar alimentos y servicios alimentarios, y equipos y materiales para las comidas! Mire este PDF de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información. ¿Preguntas? Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización.

Directors and Trainers—are you looking for in-service training opportunities? 

On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to 20 training topics. They include handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand training sessions. Directors and/or qualified trainers in child day care centers and school-age child care programs can apply to become On-Demand Trainers. Learn more about On-Demand Training!

Good News for EIP Scholarship Applicants! 

Although the Educational Incentive Program (EIP) has depleted its funding for 2021, additional scholarship funds have been made available through the NYS B5 Project.

The Professional Development Program (PDP) is administering these scholarship funds on behalf of the Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five Initiative (PDGB5) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Child Care.

Applicants who are eligible for an EIP scholarship will instead receive a B5 scholarship to be used in the same way as an EIP scholarship. All applicants should continue to apply as they normally do through EIP and PDP will award the B5 scholarships with no additional steps needed to be completed by applicants. To learn more about the NYS B5 projects, visit The Council on Children and Families.

¿Necesita ayuda para obtener equipo de protección personal, como máscaras, para su programa? 

¡Puede usar los fondos de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para pagar estos suministros! Mire este video de la Subvención de Estabilización de Cuidado Infantil para obtener más información. ¿Preguntas? Visite el sitio web del Centro de ayuda de estabilización.

Need help getting personal protective equipment, like masks, for your program? 

You can use Child Care Stabilization grant money to purchase these supplies! Watch this Child Stabilization Grant video for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant page.

Want to make improvements to your program? Would you like to provide training for your staff? 

The Child Care Stabilization Grant is here to help in these areas and so much more! Read this FAQ: "How can I use this grant money?", for a quick overview.

Emergency Face Covering Regulation. 

Effective September 16, 2021, OCFS has implemented an emergency regulation mandating all people in a child care setting to wear a mask indoors. The mandate applies to all people aged 2 and older who are able to medically tolerate a face covering, regardless of vaccination status. For more information, visit the OCFS website.

A partir del 16 septiembre de 2021, la Oficina de Servicios para Niños y Familias (OCFS) ha implementado un reglamento de emergencia que obliga a todas las personas en un entorno de cuidado infantil a usar una máscara o barbijo en espacios interiores. El mandato se aplica a todas las personas mayores de 2 años que puedan tolerar médicamente una cobertura facial, independientemente del estado de vacunación. Para obtener más información, visite el sitio web de la OCFS.

New Virtual Class Opportunity: "Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)". 

Registration is now open for the newest virtual class, "Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)" on Monday, October 12th. Join us to learn what developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) is and why it's so important to support the optimal learning and development of children. Capacity is limited so register today.

Applying for the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant? 

You can use this money to pay for things in your program like cleaning supplies or PPE, play equipment, or staff training. Watch this Child Stabilization Grant video for more information. Questions? Visit the OCFS Child Care Stabilization grant page.

Child Care Stabilization Grant. 

Did you know you can use the OCFS Child Care Stabilization Grant to provide you and your staff with 15-hours of classroom Health and Safety training? This course gives in-depth, hands-on training on keeping children safe and healthy. From supervision to cleaning and sanitizing, you'll learn about locating and following the regulations and your Health Care Plan. Also, a certified trainer may be able conduct the training at your site. Contact us for more information!

The newest e-Learning course, "Identifying and Responding to Anaphylaxis: Elijah’s Law", is available for training. 

During this fully narrated course trainees will gain information on how to prevent, recognize and act in the event of an allergic reaction.

This course will provide 1-hour of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Principles of Childhood Development
• Safety and Security Procedures
• Business Record Maintenance and Management

Register today.

Child Care Stabilization Grants. 

Apply now for a Child Care Stabilization Grant! The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is making federal funding available directly to qualified child care providers. The purpose of these grants is to help you cover unexpected business costs from the COVID-19 pandemic, and help stabilize your program so you can resume or continue providing high-quality child care. To be eligible, your program must be in good standing and be licensed/registered, permitted NYC day care center (Article 47), or an enrolled legally exempt group program as of March 11, 2021. This grant is not a loan so you don’t have to pay it back. Just complete the quick and easy online application. If you’re approved, you’ll have to keep records (receipts, invoices, etc.) of how you spend the money. The online application and information are available in English, Spanish, and 10 other languages! Find out more by going to the Stabilization Help Center website , calling the Stabilization Help Line (844-863-9319), or by contacting your local CCR&R, union representative (CSEA or UFT), or WHEDco. These grants are an historic investment in the field of child care. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and apply!

P-3 Virtual Summer Institute 2021. 

The NYS Council on Children and Families (CCF) is partnering with the NYS Education Department's Office of Early Learning to convene the annual P-3 Summer Institute. This event will be held virtually. Presentations will be published each Thursday from July 22 - August 12, 2021. Once published, participants may register and view them at any time. All presentations may be viewed free of charge! Watch for the registration links – they will be made available on the dates that presentations are released.

Visit the New York State Education Department website for more information and registration details.

The newest e-Learning course "Information and Resources to Promote a Successful Program" is available for training. 

During this fully narrated course trainees will gain information on ways to help their child care program thrive by being aware of legal requirements, continuing to learn and building partnerships in the child care community.

This course will provide 2-hours of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Business record maintenance and management
• Safety and security procedures

Register today.

$25 Million Essential Worker Scholarship. 

OCFS is accepting applications for the essential worker scholarship program made available through federal funding relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. Encourage "essential worker" parents of children in your program to consider applying. Under this grant, funding will be paid on behalf of the essential worker directly to the program of their choice. All licensed/registered/permitted or enrolled legally exempt group programs are eligible to receive payments, provided the program is in good standing with OCFS. Visit the OCFS web site for more information on eligibility and to apply.

Directors and Trainers— are you looking for in-service training opportunities? 

On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to 20 training topics. They include handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand training sessions. Directors and/or qualified trainers in child day care centers and school-age child care programs can apply to become On-Demand Trainers. Learn more about On-Demand Training!.

New Virtual Class Opportunity. 

Registration is now open for the newest virtual class "Supporting Mental Health through Quality Programming" on Monday, July 12th. Join us to learn about what mental health is and why it's so important to support the mental health of children and adults. We will also share information about environmental changes you can make in your program to improve everyone's mental health. Capacity is limited so register today.

On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to a selection of training topics. 

On-Demand Training topics include handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand training sessions. Directors and/or qualified trainers in child day care centers and school-age child care programs can apply to become On-Demand Trainers. Learn more about On-Demand Training!

Attention Training Organizations: Approval for Virtual Training has been extended through 09/30/2021. 

OCFS will allow previously approved classroom training and newly approved virtual training (submitted through EIP Event Approval or Aspire Training Approval process) to be delivered using a virtual platform. In order for participants to receive training credits a written request to conduct trainer-led virtual training must be submitted to the Professional Development Program at Rockefeller College University at Albany (PDP), in consultation with OCFS, for review and approval. The training must be facilitated by a credentialed trainer. Complete and submit this survey to be considered for approval.

New Virtual Class Opportunity. 

Registration is now open for the newest virtual class "Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) Process" on Wednesday, April 28th. Join us for insight into special education services for children, with an emphasis on the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). We will also share information about communicating with families and your role as a child care provider working with children receiving special education services. Capacity is limited, so register today.

El Programa de Incentivos Educativos (EIP) 2021. Cuidado Infantil del Estado de Nueva York, Programa de Incentivos Educativos: Solicitud de beca y folleto informativo (2021).

Registration Now Open! NYSB5 Virtual Parent Leadership Conference. 

Attention Child Care Providers – Please share with parents of children in your programs!

Resilient Families: COVID and Beyond! - virtual conference will be offered over the course of 3 weeks, on Fridays and Saturdays: April 9th & 10th, April 23rd & 24th, May 7th & 8th.

Friday night sessions 6:30 - 8 PM are family fun nights! Saturday sessions 10 AM - 2 PM will include a variety of speakers and workshops geared just for parents!

Resources, information, and ideas for families will be shared! This event is FREE and open to families with children under six years of age. Follow this link for more information and to register for NYSB5 Virtual Parent Leadership Conference.

Attention Training Organizations: Approval for Virtual Training has been extended through 06/30/2021. 

OCFS will allow previously approved classroom training and newly approved virtual training (submitted through EIP Event Approval or Aspire Training Approval process) to be delivered using a virtual platform. In order for participants to receive training credits a written request to conduct trainer-led virtual training must be submitted to the Professional Development Program at Rockefeller College University at Albany (PDP), in consultation with OCFS, for review and approval. The training must be facilitated by a credentialed trainer. Complete and submit this survey to be considered for approval.

Looking for a new way to train your child care center or SACC program staff? 

On-Demand Training can help! On-Demand Training gives you 24/7 access to a selection of training topics. It also includes handout materials, activities, and directions for conducting On-Demand training sessions. Learn more about becoming an On-Demand Trainer!

The newest e-Learning course, "Supporting Language Development: Birth to 5," is available for training. 

This fully narrated course focuses on supporting young children, and their families, who are dual language learners. It also briefly discusses the significance of language revitalization in Tribal child care programs. The training describes strategies you can use to promote oral language development, engage with families, and bring children's cultures and home languages into your everyday programming.

This course will provide you with 2.5 hours of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Principles of childhood development, focusing on the developmental stages of the age groups for which the program provides care
• Child care program development
• Safety and security procedures

Register today.

The newest e-Learning course "Media Use and Safety with Children" is available for training. 

During this fully narrated course trainees will gain information on how to keep children safe and engage in good decision making in a cyber dominant world. It will also provide alternatives to technology to encourage children to turn off their screens and be more present in the world around them when they are outside child care program hours.

This course will provide 1.5 hours of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Principles of childhood development, focusing on the developmental stages of the age groups for which the program provides care
• Child day care program development
• Safety and security procedures

Register today.

Educational Incentive Program (EIP) 2021. 

The 2021 Educational Incentive Program (EIP) scholarship application and brochure are now available online. Apply online now for classes beginning in 2021!

The complete video of the October 21, 2020 "Supporting Children in Child Care During the COVID-19 Emergency" training is now available for viewing. 

This video features a candid conversation with author, speaker and trainer Barbara Kaiser about ways child care providers can support children and families as child care programs re-open or continue to provide care during the COVID-19 emergency.

No training credit will be issued for viewing this video.

General information questions regarding the video can be directed to ecetp@albany.edu

We hope you find the information in this video helpful to the important work you do with children and families every day.

El video completo del entrenamiento "Apoyando a los niños en el cuidado infantil durante la emergencia COVID-19" brindado el 22 de octubre de 2020 ahora esta disponible para verse. 

El video ofrece una conversación cándida con la autora, oradora y entrenadora Barbara Kaiser acerca de maneras en que los proveedores de cuidado infantil pueden apoyar a los niños y sus familias a la vez que los programas de cuidado infantil reabren o continúan proveyendo cuidado durante la emergencia del COVID-19.

No se dará crédito por ver este video grabado.

Las preguntas de información general acerca del video pueden dirigirse a: ecetp@albany.edu

Esperamos que encuentre que la información de este video sea de ayuda para el importante trabajo que usted hace para niños y familias cada día.

Attention Training Organizations: Approval for Virtual Training has been extended through 04/30/2021. 

OCFS will allow previously approved classroom training and newly approved virtual training (submitted through EIP Event Approval or Aspire Training Approval process) to be delivered using a virtual platform. In order for participants to receive training credits a written request to conduct trainer-led virtual training must be submitted to the Professional Development Program at Rockefeller College University at Albany (PDP), in consultation with OCFS, for review and approval. The training must be facilitated by a credentialed trainer. Complete and submit this survey to be considered for approval.

Good News for EIP Scholarship Applicants! 

Although the Educational Incentive Program (EIP) has depleted its funding for 2020, additional scholarship funds have been made available through the NYS B5 Project.

The Professional Development Program (PDP) is administering these scholarship funds on behalf of the Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five Initiative (PDGB5) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Child Care.

Applicants who are eligible for an EIP scholarship will instead receive a B5 scholarship to be used in the same way as an EIP scholarship. All applicants should continue to apply as they normally do through EIP and PDP will award the B5 scholarships with no additional steps needed to be completed by applicants. To learn more about the NYS B5 projects, visit The Council on Children and Families.

Special live webinar training: "Supporting Children in Child Care During the COVID-19 Emergency". 

Please join us for this special live webinar training taken from your personal computer. Through a candid conversation with author, speaker and trainer, Barbara Kaiser, we will provide you with information on ways you can support children and families as childcare programs re-open or continue to provide care during the COVID-19 emergency.

This course will provide you with 1.5 hours of training.

Registration is now open but capacity is limited, so register today! Please note, you only need to register for ONE session.

Seminario web de capacitación especial en vivo: "Apoyando a los niños en el cuidado infantil durante la emergencia COVID-19". 

Únase a nosotros para este seminario web especial en vivo desde su computadora personal. A través de una conversación sincera con la autora, oradora y capacitadora, Barbara Kaiser, le proporcionaremos información sobre las formas en que puede apoyar a los niños y las familias a medida que los programas de cuidado infantil se reabren o continúan brindando atención durante la emergencia COVID-19.

Este curso le proporcionará 1.5 horas de formación.

On-Demand Trainers: 3 Trainings Now Available. 

1. (NEW) Town Hall Meeting: Child Abuse and Maltreatment
2. (NEW) Building Healthy Relationships with Effective Communication
3. Foundations in Health and Safety

Log into the Training Portal today to start scheduling new training sessions!

Virtual Thursdays! - The Office of Early Learning at NYSED Presents: P-3 Summer Institute. 

The NYS Council on Children and Families, through it's federal NYSB5 Grant, is co-sponsoring with the New York State Education Department, Office of Early Learning the annual P-3 Summer Institute.

During the month of August, you'll be able to access webinars and videos covering the topics of equity and social justice, anti-bias education, and more. New material will be available on the website every Thursday during August. Visit NYSED for more details.

Interested in Becoming an On-Demand Trainer? 

Are you looking for new ways to train your staff? Do you need more flexibility with scheduling? On-Demand Training can help! This feature gives you 24/7 access to a selection of our previously recorded webcasts, including handout materials. Click the link above to learn more about On-Demand Training!

"Guidance and Best Practices for Child Care Programs Operating During the COVID-19 Emergency" is now available for viewing. 

This special training provides guidance and clarification on interim guidelines for child care programs operating during the COVID-19 emergency. Discussion around best practice recommendations will also be addressed. This recorded session is for informational purposes only. Training credit will not be issued.

On-Demand Trainers: 3 Trainings Now Available. 

• Supporting Children and Families through Good Eating Practices (NEW)
• Addressing Challenging Behavior: The Pyramid Model in Action
• Foundations in Health and Safety.

Log into the Training Portal today to start scheduling new training sessions!

New sessions added! Special live webinar training: "Guidance and Best Practices for Child Care Programs Operating During the COVID-19 Emergency" 

Please join us for this special training. We will provide guidance and clarification on interim guidelines for child care programs operating during the COVID-19 emergency. We’ll also discuss best practice recommendations you can put into practice in your programs. You can register now for one of our 3 additional live sessions. They’ll be taking place on Wednesday, July 1st (1-2:30 PM) and Wednesday, July 1st (6:30-8 PM).

This course will provide you with 1.5 hours of training.

Registration is now open but capacity is limited, so register today! Please note, you only need to register for ONE session. If you are interested in congregate viewing of this training, email the ECETP mailbox for information.

The Department of Health INTERIM GUIDANCE FOR CHILD CARE AND DAY CAMP PROGRAMS DURING THE COVID-19 PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY has been updated. 

The Department of Health INTERIM GUIDANCE FOR CHILD CARE AND DAY CAMP PROGRAMS DURING THE COVID-19 PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY has been updated to read:

• "Responsible Parties must limit groups to 15 or fewer children/campers, excluding employees/staff, in a specific area (e.g. room) at any given time.
• Responsible Parties must ensure that different stable groups of up to 15 children/campers have no or minimal contact with one another or utilize common spaces at the same time, to the greatest extent possible".

An important note: child care programs are still required to follow the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes as set forth in regulation.

If you have any questions, please consult your regulator.

Updated- Attention Training Organizations: Virtual Training Survey 

Due to the inability to deliver in-person training during the COVID-19 emergency, OCFS will allow previously approved classroom training and newly approved virtual training (submitted through EIP Event Approval or Aspire Training Approval process) to be delivered using a virtual platform. Training must be facilitated by a credentialed trainer, and a written request to conduct trainer-led virtual training must be submitted to the Professional Development Program at Rockefeller College University at Albany (PDP), in consultation with OCFS, for review and approval.

In order for training participants to receive training credit, virtual training must be approved through this process and posted to the PDP Early Childhood Education and Training Program website and/or Aspire event calendar prior to delivery. A survey and shared mailbox have been developed to assist with evaluating virtual training proposals. Proposed training events must be scheduled to occur prior to September 30, 2020 to be eligible. The committee will evaluate proposals expeditiously and track approved virtual trainings. This accommodation will provide a viable option to child care programs seeking to continue to fulfill training requirements while classroom trainings are unavailable.

"United in Hope: Caring for Children and Child Care Providers" is now available for viewing. 

You can watch this special informational session sharing Center for Disease Control (CDC), NYS Department of Health and Office of Children and Family Services guidance, best practices, and perhaps most importantly, hope. Please note training credit is no longer available for this session. For more video resources, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Training Update and Upcoming Courses. 

Due to an overwhelming interest, "United in Hope: Caring for Children and Child Care Providers" on Thursday, May 7, 2020 and Tuesday, May 12, 2020 has reached maximum registration capacity. For more training opportunities during this time, please visit "Find Trainings" to register for other upcoming courses.

Another session of "United in Hope: Caring for Children and Child Care Providers" now scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2020! 

Due to overwhelming interest, we have added another session of "United in Hope: Caring for Children and Child Care Providers" on Tuesday, May 12, 2020!

This training will highlight how child care providers are essential to supporting children and families, each day and during difficult times. Registration is now open but seats are limited, so register today and secure your spot!

The newest e-Learning course, "What to Expect When Inspected," is available for training. 

During this fully narrated course, trainees will gain information on the role of regulators and how they assist child day care programs with coming into and maintaining regulatory compliance through inspections and technical assistance. The training will also share tips for preparing for inspections and partnering with regulators.

This course will provide you with 1.5 hours of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Statutes and regulations pertaining to child day care
• Business record maintenance and management

Register today!

Special webcast on May 7, 2020 from 6:45pm – 9:15pm. 

Please join us for a special webcast on May 7, 2020 from 6:45pm – 9:15pm, "United in Hope: Caring for Children and Child Care Providers" to help promote hope and resilience for programs and families across New York. We'll share advice from experts on helping children cope with this pandemic, as well as messages of hope for families and providers.

Registration is now open but capacity is limited, so register today!

The newest e-Learning course, "Introduction to the New York State Child Day Care Regulations," is available for training. 

During this fully narrated course, trainees will gain information on the documents establishing the standards for operating licensed/registered, or regulated child day care, including the New York State Child Day Care Regulations.

This course will provide you with 1 hour of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Statutes and regulations pertaining to child day care
• Business record maintenance and management

Register for the new e-Learning course today!

Live Webinar: April 9, 2020 at 2 p.m. - Child Care Providers and Federal Assistance: Small Business Administration Loans and Loan Forgiveness. 

OCFS, in conjunction with the Civil Service Employees Association, will be hosting a live webinar on "Child Care Providers and Federal Assistance: Small Business Administration Loans and Loan Forgiveness" on Thursday, April 9, 2020 at 2 p.m.

Featuring Tom Copeland, a leading expert on the business of child care.

An additional date/time has been added: Wednesday, April 8 at 7 P.M.

Live Webinar: April 8, 2020 at 7 p.m. - Child Care Providers and Federal Assistance: Small Business Administration Loans and Loan Forgiveness. 

OCFS, in conjunction with the Civil Service Employees Association, will be hosting a live webinar on "Child Care Providers and Federal Assistance: Small Business Administration Loans and Loan Forgiveness" on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at 7 p.m.

Featuring Tom Copeland, a leading expert on the business of child care.

An additional date/time has been added: Thursday, April 9 at 2 P.M.

Interested in Becoming an On-Demand Trainer? Are you looking for new ways to train your staff? Do you need more flexibility with scheduling? On-Demand training can help! This feature gives you 24/7 access to a selection of our previously recorded webcasts, including handout materials. Click the link above to learn more about On-Demand Training!

On-Demand Trainers: 4 Trainings Now Available. 

• Educating for Sustainability (NEW)
• Child Abuse and Maltreatment with a Focus on Understanding Brain Injury and Prevention
• Addressing Challenging Behavior: An Overview of the Pyramid Model
• Foundations in Health and Safety

Log into the Training Portal today to start scheduling new training sessions!

COVID-19 Information for Child Care Providers and Programs. Get the latest updates from a trusted source. The New York State Office and Children and Family Services has updated information on COVID-19 specifically for the Child Care community.

New e-Learning course available. The newest e-Learning course "Anti-Bias Education in Early Childhood" is available for training.

During this fully narrated course trainees will gain information on how to examine or re-examine their childcare program to identify opportunities for creating change in regard to anti-bias materials, activities and curriculum.

This course will provide you with 1.5 hours of training in the following OCFS training topics:

• Principles of childhood development focusing on the developmental stages of the age groups for which the program provides care
• Child day care program development

Register today.

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information on Novel Coronavirus New York’s healthcare system is the best in the world, and our agencies are prioritizing testing, containment tracking and quarantine protocols to keep New Yorkers safe during this period.

Register now for 2020 Webcast Training at a training site near you!  Webcasts are sponsored by the Office of Children and Family Services and are provided at no cost to you. Titles include: Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Preschool and School-Age Years, Trauma Informed Care, and Town Hall Meeting: Your Role in Supporting Challenging Behaviors. Read more about our 2020 webcast topics.

Register today for 2020 Virtual Classes! 2020 Virtual classes are already filling up, so be sure to register for your "seat" today! These 1.5-hour evening and weekend classes can be taken on a desktop, tablet or even a cell phone, right from the comfort of your own home. Just login to your ECETP account to register for classes and access your registered trainings and materials.