School Readiness Providers

Before children attend prekindergarten, their experiences help prepare them to learn. School Readiness is an important part of that early learning. School Readiness helps children from low-income families get the support they need to be successful in school. The program also provides child care so parents can work or attend a training or education program. The program is funded primarily by a federal Child Care and Development Fund Block Grant. Florida Early Learning administers the program at the state level.

Here is information and resources to help School Readiness providers:

Active Credential Requirement Related to Group Size

The Active Credential Requirement (School Readiness requirement, Rule 6M-4.620) related to group size must be in compliance, effective Oct. 25, 2018. If the ratio is such that it requires more than one child care personnel, one person supervising the group must have an active staff credential as documented on the Florida Department of Children and Families‘ child care training transcript. All new School Readiness providers that are licensed exempt whose School Readiness contract is signed on or after Oct. 25, 2018, must achieve compliance with all standards, including the Active Credential Requirement during a pre-contractual inspection.

Rilya Wilson Act

In an effort to meet Rilya Wilson Act-House Bill (HB 1435) requirements, the Office of Child Care Regulation has developed the “Rilya Wilson Act” flyer. The flyer outlines the provider’s responsibilities for ensuring continuity of care and reporting absences of children in out-of-home placement that are enrolled at their facility/home. The law affects all providers, not just licensed providers. The local Child Care Regulation Office had already implemented this process. However, once the promulgation process is complete and the rule has been adopted, the acknowledgment statement will become a requirement. The acknowledgment statement will be maintained on file.

Distracted Adult

HB1079 amended s. 402.305(9), F.S. requiring operators of child care facilities and homes must provide parents with information pertaining to the dangers of leaving a child in a vehicle and tips for prevention during the months of April and September. Providers may create their own flyer or use the one created by the Department.