What Types of Childcare Providers Does Arizona License?
Not every licensed childcare setting looks the same.
Arizona uses several provider categories, and knowing the difference can make your search much easier.
Child Care Center
Arizona defines a Child Care Center as a childcare facility operated by a private or nonprofit organization. The category can also include facilities located on public-school campuses and facilities operated by private or charter schools.
Child Care Small Group Home
A Child Care Small Group Home is childcare provided by individuals in their own homes.
Child Care Public School
A Child Care Public School program is operated by a public school district.
Does the provider type tell me which one is better?
No. The setting tells you something about how the program is structured, but it does not tell you whether one provider is necessarily safer, more nurturing, or a better fit for your child. Families should look deeper at:
- Licensing status
- Inspection history
- Enforcement history
- Staffing
- Supervision
- Health and safety practices
- Communication with families
- The environment itself
Pip's Tip
Provider type answers “What kind of setting is this?” Inspection and licensing information helps answer “What does the public record tell me about how this particular provider operates?” You need both.
Questions to Ask
- What category of license does this provider hold?
- What does WrenSong's inspection and enforcement history show for this provider?
- How is staffing and supervision handled day to day?
- How does the provider communicate with families?
Official Sources
Keep exploring Childcare Basics
Ready to look at your options?
Search licensed childcare providers.