Child Care Centers

Exploring how to open or expand your child care center, or update your license to serve new age groups, and want to understand the steps for licensing and compliance?

Operating a licensed Child Care Center in Orange County requires compliance with regulations established by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). Licensing ensures that programs meet essential health, safety, and staffing standards so that children are cared for in secure and developmentally supportive environments. Because licensing requirements and forms occasionally change, Child Care Centers are strongly encouraged to stay up to date by regularly checking the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) website and subscribing to the CCLD listserv for important updates, regulation changes, and statewide communications.  https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/child-care-licensing/child-care-advocates

Before you begin the licensing process, take a moment to explore two short videos from the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) that provide valuable information:

• Is a Child Care Center the Right Business for Me?: Helps assess whether a center setup fits your goals. California Child Care Licensing
• Children’s Personal Rights in Child Care: Covers children’s rights and discipline in licensed facilities. California Child Care Licensing

These videos set the stage for understanding both the expectations and responsibilities that come with operating a licensed child care center in California.