Childcare Programs
The Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Administration (CCA) provides assistance to eligible families in need so they can continue education or employment while ensuring a safe and supervised environment for their children.
First Things First created Quality First to improve the quality of early learning in Arizona. More than 1,000 child care providers and preschool programs across our state participate in Quality First. All are licensed and regulated, and all are committed to quality improvement. Many programs also offer Quality First Scholarships that help low-income families afford quality early learning for their young children. Families with young children can use our search tool to look for child care and preschool programs near you that offer Quality First Scholarships. Contact each location to inquire about scholarship availability or to be added to a waitlist.
Early Head Start and Head Start are family-centered, success and early childhood education programs offered at no cost to qualifying families with children ages birth to 5 years old at more than 40 locations. Our high-quality early education program focuses on developing the physical, social, emotional, and learning skills that children need to be ready to promote into kindergarten.
Visit Maricopa County Head Start Programs
Visit Westside Head Start
Visit Southwest Human Development Head Start Programs
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) is a resource hub for parents, providers, community leaders, and policymakers about anything related to child care in Arizona. Parents and families can find guidance on child care options, child development tips, and resources to support your family's journey.
The YMCA offers early learning programs for children from infancy through 5 years old, and additional programs for older children. A financial assistance application is available to make childcare affordable.
Youth/Afterschool Programs
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley offers affordable after-school and summer programs for 16,000+ young people in grades K-12. Financial assistance can also be provided at your local Club.
The YMCA offers a variety of programs for youth including after school programs, camps, and more!