Ensuring the safety and well-being of children in care is paramount, and in Oregon, the Early Learning Division plays a crucial role in this through its Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD). This division acts as a consumer protection agency, setting and upholding standards for child care programs across the state. For parents seeking安心な (anshin na – safe and secure) child care, understanding CCLD and its functions is essential. A licensed program in Oregon signifies adherence to fundamental health and safety regulations designed to protect children in care. CCLD emphasizes an educational and supportive approach, offering technical assistance and resources to help child care providers succeed while prioritizing excellent customer service.
Understanding Oregon’s Child Care License Types
The Child Care Licensing Division in Oregon issues several types of licenses, each tailored to different care settings and age groups. These licenses include:
- Registered Family (RF): Typically operating within a residential home, these licenses are for family-based care settings.
- Certified Family (CF): Similar to Registered Family licenses and also usually home-based, Certified Family licenses meet a higher level of requirements.
- Certified Center (CC): These licenses are for child care centers generally located in commercial or non-residential buildings, providing care and education to children.
- School-age Center (SC): Specifically for centers that exclusively care for school-age children (kindergarten and above), excluding overnight care and operating in non-residential settings.
It’s important to note that each license type operates under its own specific set of Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs), reflecting the unique needs and environments of each care setting. While all types prioritize health and safety, the specific regulations differ.
Providing Feedback to the Child Care Licensing Division
The Child Care Licensing Division values feedback to continuously improve its processes and training. If you have suggestions or comments regarding CCLD procedures, you are encouraged to use the official feedback form. This form is designed to gather input on processes and procedures, not for complaints about specific staff members. For staff-related concerns, please contact your local CCLD regional manager or the customer service line at 1-800-556-6616.
Feedback forms are available in multiple languages to ensure accessibility and inclusivity:
English
Spanish
Russian
Chinese
Vietnamese
By understanding the role of the Early Learning Division and the Child Care Licensing Division, parents and providers can work together to create safe and nurturing environments for Oregon’s children.
