Child Care Registrar & Regulation Specialists
We are a team with 25+ years of direct experience working with children as early childhood educators, child care providers, and special education teachers. Our specialists have 20+ years of experience in regulating Family Day Care and School-Age Child Care programs in Niagara County through a contract with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (NYS OCFS).
What We Do
Guiding providers, ensuring compliance, and promoting high-quality child care.
Provider Support & Application Assistance
Prospective Family Day Care and School-Age Child Care providers receive step-by-step support throughout the application process, from initial inquiry to final registration. Guidance includes assistance with completing required forms, understanding applicable regulations, and preparing all necessary documentation to ensure applications are accurate and complete. Support is also provided in navigating background checks, required trainings, and health and safety requirements, along with ongoing clarification and answers to questions to help streamline the process.
Regulatory Oversight & Monitoring
Registered Family Day Care and School-Age Child Care programs are subject to ongoing oversight from our specialists to ensure compliance with New York State Social Services Law, NYS OCFS regulations, Division of Child Care Services policies, and other applicable requirements. This includes scheduled and unannounced inspections, along with detailed reviews of facility conditions, supervision practices, and required records to verify that health, safety, and regulatory standards are consistently met.
Investigations & Compliance
Complaint inspections and investigations are conducted by our specialists in response to reported concerns involving Family Day Care and School-Age Child Care programs. This includes reviewing allegations, conducting on-site visits when necessary, and investigating serious injuries and incidents to ensure appropriate follow-up and adherence to regulatory requirements.
Child Safety Collaboration
Allegations of child abuse or maltreatment involving Family Day Care and School-Age Child Care programs are addressed in coordination with the local Department of Social Services. This includes sharing information, supporting investigations, and following established protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of children in care.
Community Partnerships & Provider Support
All licensed child care providers have direct access to experienced staff within our agency who offer free guidance and support. This includes helping programs that go beyond minimum regulatory requirements by implementing best practices and current early childhood theories, connecting providers to training, mentoring, and other resources, and assisting in the development and completion of corrective action plans when regulatory issues arise.
