What is Elevate?
Elevate is a state initiative that supports all early care and education programs to offer quality child care for YOU. Every licensed child care provider in Connecticut has an Elevate level.
Why does quality matter to me?
The early years of a child’s life are the most important window for their development. The brain is built in this time to help shape a child’s ability to learn, adapt, and thrive in school and life. This means the quality of care children receive really matters.
What does Elevate mean for me?
Elevate was built on the idea that programs can learn and grow, just like children. Elevate makes this growth clear to families. Elevate also offers unique support to match programs’ specific needs. This helps your child care program better serve your family.
What are Elevate levels?
A provider’s Elevate level reflects where they are in the process of strengthening their program. Elevate offers members 3 levels of engagement: Member, Member+, and Member Accredited.
1: Member
All licensed childcare providers in Connecticut are Members.
By meeting health and safety requirements set by the Office of Early Childhood (OEC), Member programs are providing Trusted, Licensed Care (TLC) for the families they serve.
Learn more about our Trusted, Licensed Care educational campaign.
2: Member+
Member+ child care providers are going above and beyond to build their services. Programs will pick a specific area of improvement, like:
- Building their team
- Connecting with families
- Enhancing their program’s learning environment
- Finding resources for children and families
- Managing their business
- Supporting child development
3: Member Accredited
Member Accredited providers have made a commitment to meet national standards for young children’s learning. To get this national distinction, a provider is recognized through 1 of these 3 organizations:
- National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
- National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC)
- Head Start
How can I learn about Elevate at my child’s Family Child Care, Center or Group Home program?
Check your program’s Elevate Level of Engagement on 211 Child Care
Look for Elevate window clings on your program’s front door or window
Ask about SMART Goals or Focus Areas. Programs may choose to share this information in e-mails, newsletters, or any other communications.