Child Care Business Practice 101

4.1 Building Sustainability Through Support and Partnerships

Child care businesses do not operate in isolation. They rely on a broader system of laws, resources, and partnerships to remain strong and sustainable. Providers must follow state and local laws while also managing the challenges of caring for children. Agencies like MSDE's Office of Child Care and other partners offer training, funding, and support to help programs succeed and continue serving families without interruption.

Together, these agencies form a network of support that helps you maintain quality, meet requirements, and respond to the needs of children and families.

Select each button to learn more about the support available to your child care program.

Regulatory and Program Oversight

These partners help ensure your program operates legally, safely, and with a strong foundation.

MSDE Office of Child Care (OCC) Central Office
Licensing and registration, COMAR guidance, professional development, mentoring, and support
OCC Regional Licensing Office
Inspections and ongoing program support
State Fire Marshal’s Office
Fire safety inspections, capacity approval, and environmental suitability

Professional Growth and Workforce Development

Ongoing learning and support help strengthen your skills and sustain high-quality care.

OCC Training and Workforce Development
Training opportunities and conference support
Child Care Associations
Training and advocacy
Maryland Family Network
Training and LOCATE: Child Care

Financial and Program Sustainability

These resources help stabilize your program and support families’ access to care.

OCC Scholarship Office
Financial assistance for eligible children
OCC Pre-K Program
Support for new and existing pre-kindergarten programs
Governor’s Office: Child Care Community Connection
Resources, peer connections, and opportunities to inform supports for the workforce

Health, Safety, and Environmental Support

Maintaining safe and healthy environments is essential to sustainable care.

MSDE Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Food supplement programs
MSDE School Health Services
Health requirements for before/after school and summer programs
MDH & Local Health Departments
Communicable disease guidance and program closures
Maryland Department of the Environment
Air quality and lead safety

Specialized Child and Family Supports

These partners help you meet diverse needs and ensure all children can thrive.

MSDE Division of Special Education
Technical assistance, resources, and support for children with atypical development
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Division
Services for children with developmental disabilities
Maryland Department of Human Services
Child protective services, foster care, and support for families experiencing homelessness

Quality Improvement and Advocacy

Strong programs are supported through quality standards and a collective voice.

Quality Improvement ( Maryland EXCELS)
Quality improvement, incentives, and program promotion
Child Care Accreditations (NAFCC, NECPA, NAEYC, Maryland Accreditation)
Certification and health and safety improvements
Child Care Councils
Advocacy for providers and families

These agencies are here to help you! Visit their websites for further information.

Questions for Reflection and Action

How do the agencies listed above support your child care business, employment and children’s health and safety?