Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast

 

Provider Directory

Click the link to access the directory from the Department of Children and Families listing all child care providers in your local area. You can search for Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) providers as well as School Readiness (SR) providers. It is the Coalition’s goal that all children in Okaloosa and Walton counties will enter school fully prepared for educational success. Please know that the ELC has the health, safety, and well-being of your child as its focus in this program’s delivery. The Coalition will update the website to announce certifications of other providers as the information is available.

Child Care Provider Types Available:

Family Child Care Homes (FCCH)

Registered FCCH

The Provider and all household members over the age of 18 are required to complete a series of background screening checks. Juveniles 12 and over in the home must have a juvenile records check. The provider must attend the 30-hour Family Child Care Training. The provider may have CPR/First Aid, but it is not required.

Licensed FCCH

The Provider must meet the same requirements as the registered provider and the following requirements: Provider and substitute must be current in CPR and First Aid for infants and children and submit documentation to show a negative TB check. The home passes a health and safety inspection by the Department of Children and Families. Two routine inspections are performed annually.

Child Care Centers

Licensed Centers

Child Care Centers who have met all the standards required by the Florida Statute. Must have three routine inspections yearly. All staff must begin a 40-hour child care course within 90 days of employment.

Licensed Exempt Centers

Child Care Centers which are not required to be licensed due to exemption in the Florida statute.

To be exempt, a center must:

  • Have a recognized accrediting body accredit the center
  • Pass a federal background check
  • Meet city/county safety regulations
  • Be an integral part of a church or school

Florida Gold® Seal

Florida Gold® Seal is given to those homes and centers that achieve a national accreditation highlighting quality child care programs in Florida. These programs undergo in-depth assessments, independent observation, and approval by professional experts and final endorsement by a national committee.

Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK)

The Voluntary Pre-K (VPK) Program gives families of 4 year olds in Florida the choice of placing their children in a high-quality early learning program. VPK is free for Florida residents.