You've probably seen "NAEYC Accredited" on daycare websites and brochures. Here's what it actually means — and how much weight to give it.
What NAEYC Accreditation Is
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accredits early childhood programs that voluntarily meet standards exceeding most state licensing requirements. The process involves self-study, documentation, and an on-site visit from trained assessors.
What It Covers (10 Standards)
- Relationships
- Curriculum
- Teaching
- Assessment of Child Progress
- Health
- Teachers (qualifications, professional development)
- Families
- Community Relationships
- Physical Environment
- Leadership and Management
What It Doesn't Guarantee
- No surprise inspections — accreditation visit is scheduled; centers know when assessors are coming
- Snapshot in time — quality can change; accreditation renews every 5 years
- Staff can change — a great director and team may leave after accreditation
Other Accreditation Bodies
- NAC (National Accreditation Commission) — commonly for for-profit centers
- NECPA — National Early Childhood Program Accreditation
- Quality Rating Systems (QRIS) — state-level star ratings (1–5 stars) available in most states
Bottom line: NAEYC accreditation is a meaningful positive signal — but a non-accredited program with low staff turnover, strong inspection history, and experienced teachers may outperform an accredited one.
Search for accredited daycare centers near you.
