Figuring out childcare can feel like a full-time job especially if you're a first-time parent, juggling work, school, or just trying to stay on top of life. From confusing paperwork and long waitlists to finding care that fits your budget, it’s easy to feel stuck before you even start.
We’ll walk you through what to expect, how to plan ahead, and ways to overcome common barriers like finding backup care when your child gets sick, understanding Maryland's health forms, or locating financial assistance. Whether you're just beginning your search or about to enroll, we’ve got tools, checklists, and real-world advice to make the process smoother and less stressful.
For support identifying an appropriate childcare, please see our page on How Can I Help Someone Find Childcare?
Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed. |
Getting Ready to Apply: A Critical Checklist for Childcare |
| What You'll Need | Additional Information for Navigating |
|---|---|
| ☐ Child’s Birth Certificate - Usually required as proof of identity/age |
Can be ordered through VitalChek. If barriers exist to obtaining birth certificates The Franciscan Center may be able to assist. |
| ☐ Parent/Guardian Photo ID - Driver’s license, passport, etc. |
If individual does not have a driver's license, they may be able to apply for a state ID. If barriers exist to obtaining birth certificates The Franciscan Center may be able to assist. |
| ☐ Proof of Maryland Residency - Recent utility bills, lease, mortgage, etc. | No known resources. Please reach out to Thread Staff for support if young person is having issues obtaining proof of residency. |
| ☐ Completed Enrollment / Application Form - Provided by the daycare | These forms are specific to the daycare provider and should be provided by the daycare. |
| ☐ Health Inventory / Physical Exam - Maryland requires a physical examination by a health care provider per COMAR. |
These forms should be provided by the daycare for you to send your physician but is also available through Maryland Early Childhood Education.
|
| ☐ Immunization Certification - Evidence of required immunizations before attendance. |
The daycare should provide these forms to you but it is also available through Maryland Early Childhood Education |
| ☐ Blood-Lead Testing Certificate (for < 6 years old) - Maryland mandates lead testing for children under age 6. |
The daycare should provide these forms to you but it is also available through Maryland Early Childhood Education |
| ☐ Medication / Special Health Services Authorization - If your child needs medication, inhalers, or special services |
While the daycare will provide the forms you need to fill out, you can also find necessary forms through the Maryland Early Childhood Education website.
|
| ☐ Emergency Contact & Authorized Pick-up List - Names, phone numbers, relationships, and authorized pick-up persons |
Considerations for Emergency Contacts:
Examples of Suitable Emergency Contacts - A nearby grandparent or other relative, trusted friend who lives close, a neighbor you have a strong relationship with, another parent from the daycare you trust and see regularly |
| ☐ Custody or Court Documents (if applicable) - If there are legal custody stipulations |
Considerations: Inform the daycare: Provide a copy of any custody orders they need to be aware of, especially if there are restrictions on pick-ups or contact. Minimize conflict in front of staff/child: Work out disagreements away from the daycare environment. |
| ☐ Signed Policies / Parent Handbook Acknowledgment from the Daycare. |
What to Look for in a Daycare Parent Handbook or Policies (General)
|
Additional Useful Links
Maryland Child Care Licensing / Licensing Forms — official PDF forms for health, immunization, etc. https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-providers/licensing/licensing-forms/
Maryland Department of Health — ImmuNet / Immunization Records — for vaccination data, opt-out, record requests https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/oideor/immun/pages/forms.aspx
Maryland Back‑to‑School Immunization Requirements (for reference) Maryland.gov Enterprise Agency Template
Maryland Child Care Scholarship Program (CCS) — for financial aid info Maryland Early Childhood Education Scholarship Program
Childcare Items to Prepare & Label |
☐ Labeled backpack or diaper bag
☐ Diapers / pull-ups & wipes (if applicable)
☐ Extra clothing (2–3 full sets)
☐ Comfort item (blanket, stuffed animal) if allowed
☐ Naptime items (sheet, blanket, pacifier) if daycare permits
☐ Bottles / sippy cups (labeled)
☐ Formula or breastmilk (if applicable, labeled & dated)
☐ Lunch / snacks (if not provided)
☐ Sunscreen (with signed permission)
Seasonal gear (jacket, hat, raincoat, boots)
Childcare Contingency Planning Questions |
Planning - Questions to Ask the Daycare
These will help you understand what’s covered, what’s not, and how you’ll be notified.
Closures & Emergencies
What is your policy for unexpected closures (e.g. weather, power outages, public health events)?
How and when are parents notified of an emergency closure?
Do you offer make-up days or refunds for closures?
Is there a backup site or partner provider for emergency care?
Are you required to follow Baltimore City/County Public Schools closure decisions?
Child Illness & Exclusion
What symptoms require a child to stay home (fever, vomiting, cough, rash, etc.)?
How long must a child be symptom-free before returning?
Do you require a doctor’s note to return?
What happens if my child gets sick during the day?
Are there exposure notifications if another child has something contagious (RSV, COVID, lice)?
Staff Illness / Shortages
What happens if staff members call out sick — do you ever close for staffing reasons?
Do you ever operate at reduced hours or combine classrooms?
Communication
What’s the best way to reach you in an emergency?
Do you use an app to notify parents in real time?
Who do I contact after hours if I have a concern or change in pick-up?
Making Your Own Back-Up Plan
Sometimes, unexpected things happen and it's best to plan for those events when making childcare considerations. Consider the list below for some common scenarios to review when making your childcare plan.
General Coverage
Who can pick up my child if I can’t make it in time?
Can a trusted family member or friend be on standby for last-minute pickups?
Is my workplace flexible for sick days or early pickups?
Can I work from home if my child is sick?
Backup Childcare Options
Do I have a list of backup childcare providers (nanny, sitter, neighbor)?
Is there a drop-in daycare or emergency nanny service nearby?
Sick Child Planning
Do I have supplies and a plan for caring for my child at home if they are sick for multiple days?
Am I comfortable leaving my child with a trusted caregiver when sick if I absolutely have to work?
Financial Questions
Will I lose a day’s payment if daycare is closed?
Do I have a small emergency fund or buffer for unexpected time off?
Am I eligible for Child Care Subsidies or workplace dependent care benefits to help cover gaps?
Legal & Practical Details
Is my Authorized Pick-Up List at the daycare current?
Do backup caregivers have the daycare’s address, hours, and contact info?
Does my backup person have a car seat, if needed?
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