Education Accredited Programs

A Commitment to Excellence

The National Academy of Early Childhood Programs is an independent accrediting system sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). NAEYC is the nation's largest organization of early childhood professionals. NAEYC has provided distinguished leadership in th field of child care and early education for more than 70 years.

What is accreditation for early childhood programs?

Early childhood program accreditation means that an early childhood program-child care center, preschool, kindergarten, or before-and/or after-school programs voluntarily applied for accreditation by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs. The program then engaged in an extensive self-study based on the Academy's Criteria for High Quality Early Childhood Programs. The accuracy of the program's self-study was verified during a site visit to the program by a team of trained volunteer validators. The validated self-study, including the program director's responses to the validation visit, was reviewed by a three-member national commission composed of experts in child care and early childhood education, judged to be in substantial compliance with the Academy's Criteria, and granted accreditation for a three-year period.

What should I know about early childhood accreditation?

Accredited programs have demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality program for young children and their families. While the accreditation process examines the total program, emphasis is placed on the quality of interactions among teachers and children and the developmental appropriateness of the curriculum---what really happens to the children. Health and safety, staffing, staff qualifications, physical environment, and administration are all reviewed during accreditation, but primary consideration is given to the nature of the child's experience.

Accreditation helps you identify high-quality programs. High quality is important for children and families, so parents can be reassured that their children are in good hands. And, what's good for families is also good for business and communities. In short, high-quality early childhood programs benefit us all!

Which early childhood programs can become accredited?

All types of programs are eligible to apply for accreditation. Programs may apply whether they operate on a full-or part-day basis or if they are for profit or nonprofit. All information on candidate programs is confidential. Programs must be operational for at least one year before accreditation may be granted.

How will I know if an early childhood program is accredited?

The current list of accredited programs is available from the Academy. In addition, accredited programs may display the Academy's insignia---a torch---on their stationery and promotional material. Also, accredited programs receive a large, colorful poster depicting the characteristics of accredited programs along with a certificate of accreditation. Look for the poster and certificate in any program you visit.

What are the characteristics of high quality?

There are a number of qualities associated with high-quality programs. Following are some characteristics to consider as you look at programs, based on the Academy's Criteria:

are the children comfortable, relaxed, happy, and involved in play and other activities?
play and learning is one of the best signs of a good program
an ample variety of toys and materials for children of their age group
sufficient numbers of adults with specialized training in early childhood development and education
teachers and caregivers should recognize and respect individual differences in children's abilities, interests, and preferences
high quality early childhood programs do much more than help children learn numbers, shapes and colors
good programs help children learn how to learn; question why; discover alternative answers; to get along with others; develop language, thinking and motor skills
planning should reflect a balance of activities between vigorous outdoor play an quiet indoor play
flexibility; to adjust the daily activities to meet children's individual needs and interests
close communication between parents and teachers is vital
good hygienic practices
meals and snacks should be nutritious, varied, and served at appropriate times
current medical and emergency records should be maintained
make sure the facility and outdoor play area are safe and equipment is well maintained
emergency procedures established and known by children and staff
are working smoke detectors installed

Accreditation is Increasing

The Academy's accreditation system began operation in September 1985. Thousands of programs are accredited and thousands more are in process. Because the process is still relatively new, many programs have not yet had the opportunity to apply for accreditation.

For more information about NAEYC's accreditation process, please contact

NAEYC (National Academy of Early Childhood Programs)
1509 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036-1426
800-424-2460 (extension 360)
Fax: 202-328-1846

The Education Department at MCC offers two different Associate Degrees and five different two-year-certificate programs to get your career off the ground.

Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)
Associate in Science and Arts Degree (A.S.A.)
Child Development Associate Preschool Certificate
CDA Family Day Care Certificate
CDA Infant - Toddler Certificate
MCC Teacher Aide / Paraprofessional Credential
MCC Instructional Assistant - Special Education Certificate

For more information on these programs, check MCC's Catalog