A parent in the Dakota County Child Care Assistance Programs may select a provider from the following options:
Day Care Center
- Licensed through the State.
- Has insurance to meet State guidelines.
- Parent signs a contract with the center.
- Includes drop-in centers, nursery schools, and license exempt programs such as extended day.
Licensed Family Home Child Care Provider
- Licensed through the county of residence.
- Parent accepts policies of individual provider.
- Parent signs a contract with provider.
- Insurance not required by State, but most will carry liability.
Legally Unlicensed Child Care Provider Definition
- Person who cares for the children from one unrelated family plus his or her own children. This may also include any number of children related to the provider such as grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
- Provider does care in or out of his or her home.
- Not licensed.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Parents should use discretion in selection.
- Parents should consider:
Legally unlicensed providers must provide the county with the following information:
- Copy of birth certificate or driver's license to verify age.
- Signed statement that they are aware of the potential liability.
- Retain records of payment for a least 3 years for audit purposes.
- W-9 form to comply with the Internal Revenue Service income reporting requirements.
- Providers must sign a release form to allow a background check to be completed by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the Dakota County Social Services Agency.