At Child Care Aware of Missouri, we’ve made searching for child care easier than ever.
Our online referral service lets you search for programs that offer exactly the type of environment you desire for your child. Click here to get started on your search, or call 1-866-892-3228 for help from a Referral Specialist.
Getting Started
Before you begin your search, you will need to know what types of child care options are typically available. In Missouri, there are three categories of child care: licensed, license-exempt, and unregulated. Click here to learn about different types of child care.
Using the Online Search Function
Click on the button to the right to start your search. The online referral search will walk you through a series of questions to determine what you are looking for: Program Types, Locations, Child’s Age, Days and Times Needed, Schedule Preferences, and Other Considerations. The system will then identify all child care programs that meet your requirements in your area. During the search, you can alter any of your requirements to find additional programs as needed. All information collected in the process of your child care search is confidential.
Unregulated homes and license-exempt centers on our referral list have completed an application to be listed, which includes:
- A health and safety standards self-certification form that is updated every two years.
- A statement of good health report with tine test for tuberculosis.
- A fire evacuation plan.
- A tornado and/or severe weather plan.
- A child abuse and neglect screening on everyone living in the home or working in the center (as self reported by the program).
- A criminal background check on everyone living in the home 18 years of age and over or everyone working in the facility (as self reported by the program).
- Two written letters of reference.