Quality Start Rating System
Quality Start is a voluntary program for licensed child care centers, designed to recognize, support, and increase the quality of child care throughout Louisiana. The Quality Start Rating system for child care providers can help you, as a parent, choose the best child care center for your family.
Quality Start rates child care centers on a scale from 1 to 5 stars:
- 1 STAR - This means that the center has met the higher standards of the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services Child Care Licensing and Regulatory Section.
- 2 STARS - A two-star rating is given when the center has received additional specialized training.
- 3-5 STARS - The three to five star rating indicates the center provides quality child care based on staff qualifications and the Environment Rating Scales (ERS).
Why Should I Choose A Quality Start Child Care Center?
- Research shows quality child care can improve your child's well-being including their readiness for school.
- Child care centers who participate are showing parents their commitment to providing quality child care.
- On your tax return, your family may qualify for the annual School Readiness Tax Credit based on the star rating of your child care center, your family income and your child’s age.
Where Can I Get More Information?
- Go to the official Quality Start website, www.qrslouisiana.org
- In the Baton Rouge area? Contact Partnerships in Child Care at (225) 926-8005.
- Outside of the Baton Rouge area? Find the Child Care Resource and Referral agency in your region by calling 1-866-600-2772 or visiting www.laccrra.com
- Contact the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services - Child Development and Early Learning Section at (225) 342-0694 or 1-800-680-9098.
Partnerships in Child Care
4521 Jamestown Avenue, Suite 5
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
(225) 926-8005