Welcome to the MyChildCarePlan.org Provider Guide (Guía en español, 中文指南)—your go-to resource for managing and optimizing your provider profile while accessing essential business tools and support.
Managing Your Provider Profile
Verify your license information
Complete your basic contact information
Updating Your Information
Keep your vacancy status current (update every 60 days)
Update your business name when needed
Note: Some information can only be updated through your local Resource & Referral agency
Profile Update Limitations
Some providers cannot update profiles directly
If you see "provider portal is not available in your area" message:
Your county may not use the MyChildCarePlan database yet
Contact your local Resource & Referral agency to update information
Email [email protected] with correction requests
Submit the Provider Profile update form
What You Can Update Yourself
Contact details (phone, email, website)
Program description and photos
Languages spoken
Schedule and hours of operation
Meals provided
Subsidies accepted
Transportation services
Special needs care experience
Note: License number, capacity, and address can only be updated through your local Resource & Referral (R&R) agency.
Optimizing Your Profile
Why Profile Optimization Matters
Increased visibility: Appear more often in family searches
Better first impressions: Showcase your program's professionalism
More qualified leads: Connect with families that match your services
Creating an Appealing Profile
Write a compelling "About" message highlighting your program's approach
Share your experience and qualifications
Quick Marketing Tips
Complete your profile 100% - families can search by the features you list
Update your vacancy status every 60 days (required for visibility in searches)
Highlight special features like languages, curriculum approaches, or nontraditional hours
Showcase quality markers like accreditations and certifications
Include information about quality initiative participation (QRIS, CCIP, FCCHEN, etc.)
Respond promptly to family inquiries
💡 Pro Tip: Review and update your profile monthly to keep information current and maintain visibility in search results.
For a more comprehensive approach to marketing your child care business, check out our detailed guide: Marketing Your Child Care Business: A Comprehensive Guide for California Providers. This resource covers everything from digital marketing strategies to community networking techniques specifically designed for California child care providers.
Business Resources
Financial Support Options
Subsidy programs (Alternative Payment Programs)
FCCHEN networks for family child care homes
Local grants through First 5 Commissions
Small business loans and financial assistance
Need more detailed information about funding your child care business? Visit our comprehensive resource: Funding Options for New Child Care Businesses. This guide covers California-specific grants, small business loans, tax incentives, and alternative funding sources to help you start or expand your child care program.
Coming Soon: Business Support
Business planning resources
Financial management tips
Record-keeping best practices
Check back for updates as we add more business resources
Licensing Help
Find important updates (Provider Information Notices)
Prepare for licensing visits
Understand emergency planning requirements
Access required forms and documentation
For in-depth guidance on California licensing regulations and requirements, explore our detailed resource: Navigating CDSS Resources: A Practical Guide for California Child Care Providers. This comprehensive guide helps you understand licensing regulations, find essential forms, prepare for inspections, and stay current with CDSS updates.
Troubleshooting & Support
Need Help?
Contact your local Resource & Referral (R&R) agency
Email support at [email protected]
Use the chat feature on our website
Last updated: April 2025. Information subject to change.