Families | Exceed.ri.gov

Search for an Early Learning Program Start Your Search Here

Parents, caregivers, and other family members have a critical role in supporting the growth and development of children as they serve as a child’s first, and lifelong teacher

Learn how to identify a high-quality early learning program

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BrightStars
BrightStars helps families in Rhode Island access quality child care, early learning, and school-age program options within the state and to provide education to families about what to look for, and questions to ask when seeking child care. Learn More...

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Child Care Licensing

During the 2019 legislative session, the Rhode Island General Assembly passed a budget article Article 4 that transferred the child care licensing team from the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) to the Department of Human Services (DHS). This was to strengthen and deliver high quality child care services for Rhode Islanders and better support the workforce. The transfer officially occurred on October 27, 2019.

DHS is committed to transparency and a thoughtful transition with input from community partners, providers and families. This page serves as a convenient way to access all communication and other helpful information

C hild Care Centers and School Age Program Regulations for Licensure

F amily Child Care Home Regulations for Licensure

G roup Family Child Care Home Regulations for Licensure

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Consumer Statement

Child Care Licensing

Find A Child Care Provider

Consumer Statement - English

Have Questions? Contact Us!

Consumer Statement - Spanish

Assistance to help families afford high-quality care

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Rhode Island Department of Human Services

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Starting Right Child Care Assistance Program: Learn more about child care subsidies

Child Care Assistance is available to families who meet income guidelines and are working a minimum of 20 hours per week. Learn More...

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Child Care Aware of America

Military families may be eligible to receive a monthly subsidy to help offset the cost of early care and education. Military families may apply for child care assistance online or call 1(800) 424-2246. Learn More...

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Child Dependent Care Tax Credit

If you paid for early care and education for children under 13 while you were at work or looking for work, you may be eligible to claim the child and dependent care credit and receive a percentage of the expenses paid to a child care provider. Learn More...

Low and no-cost high-quality programs in Rhode Island

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Family Visiting

Start enjoying the benefits of Family Visiting. Join other families like you who want to give their babies the best possible start. Learn More...

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Rhode Island Pre-K

The Rhode Island Pre-kindergarten Program, entering its 8th year, provides free, high-quality pre-kindergarten classes to eligible children. This coming September, spaces will be available for 1008 children to participate in the 56 pre-kindergarten classes. Learn More...

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Head Start

Head Start is a federally funded and provides early care and education, health, and social and emotional services to children under 5 and their families. Learn More...

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Early Head Start

Early Head Start is a Federally-funded early care and education program for low-income infants and toddlers. The program provides comprehensive child development and family support services that enhance the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of participating children. Learn More...

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Early Head Start and Head Start Child Care Partnership

The Head Start Child Care Partnership serves families that meet Head Start eligibility guidelines and receive state child care assistance. Early Head Start Child Care Partnership serves children from birth to 3, living anywhere in RI. The Head Start Child Care Partnership serves children ages 3 - 5, living in Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Cumberland, and Lincoln. Learn More...

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Early Head Start and Head Start Child Care Partnership

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Public School Pre-Schools

Many school districts offer low or no cost high quality inclusive preschool programs in their public schools. Programs are designed for residents three to five year olds, prior to kindergarten entry. Learn More...

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Find out more about developmental milestones and developmental screening

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Milestones Matter!

From birth to 5 years, your child should reach milestones in how he plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves. Track your child’s development and act early if you have a concern. Learn More...

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Early Intervention

Developmental screening is an important way for parents to regularly check in on their children’s development. For children ages birth to three, developmental screening is completed by the child’s doctor. Click below to find out more about developmental screening and how to request a screening for your child. Learn More...

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Early Childhood Special Education

For children ages three to five, developmental screening is conducted by the local school district’s Child Outreach program. The State of Rhode Island in partnership with local school districts offer an array of special education services. Learn More...

Support your child's learning and development at home

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RIELDS Fun Family Activity Cards

The Fun Family Activities are a series of resources designed for parents and families, on child development. The resources were developed using the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards and provide tips and activities for parents on how they can support their young child’s learning and development. Learn More...

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Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards

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Rhode Island Parent Information Network Parent Training

For additional family support, contact the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) which provides special education supports, specialized services for children and young adults with disabilities, healthcare health insurance support for families. Learn More...

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Rhode Island Library System

The Rhode Island Library System offers many free and accessible events and resources available to families of young children. Learn More...

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Additional Resources for Families

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Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)

TANF Rhode Island, or RI Works, is a support service for Rhode Island families. The purpose of TANF Rhode Island is to provide financial and medical assistance to needy dependent children and the parents or relatives with whom they are living. Eligible TANF households receive monthly cash and Medicaid benefits. Learn more...

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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP provides low-income individuals and families with resources to purchase food. Eligibility is dependent on income, resources, and the number of individuals in a household. Learn more...

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Women, Infants and Children (WIC)

WIC benefits provide you and your child with one-on-one nutrition counseling, referrals with services you may need, and a food prescription to meet your needs, and your child's specific needs. As long as you are in the WIC program, we will meet with you to celebrate the steps in your child's growth and learning. Women who apply early in their pregnancy are more likely to have a healthy baby. Children who stay on WIC until the age of five, are better prepared and more likely to succeed in school. Learn more...

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Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Heating Assistance component of LIHEAP helps keep individuals and families warm in the cold weather months through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. Federal funds are available to eligible participants to help with managing heating costs. There are two components of this program. Learn more...

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Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides no-cost or low-cost health coverage for eligible children in Rhode Island. These programs provide health coverage for children so that they can get routine check-ups, immunizations and dental care to keep them healthy. Even if your child has been turned down in the past or you don't know if they qualify, you may be able to get health coverage now. Learn more...

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Rhode Island Family Guide

A website and print based family resource guide for resident of Rhode Island. Learn more...

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URI’s Food and Nutrition Education Program

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The University of Rhode Island’s Food and Nutrition Education Program

The University of Rhode Island’s Food and Nutrition Education Program provides critical food and exercise information to members of the community through a series of programming. Learn more...

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YWCA

YWCA is the nation’s largest provider of group exercise classes for all ages, all levels and all interests. From low-impact exercise and chair classes, stretching and strength training, to indoor cycling, water exercise and yoga, you’ll find a group class that’s fun, supportive and keeps you moving. Learn more...

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Ocean State Library System

The Rhode Island Library System offers many free and accessible events and resources available to families of young children. Learn More...