Quality Care Matters
What are “Quality Early Childhood Programs?”
Quality early childhood programs provide experiences that optimize each child’s development, learning and health, engage families and communities in partnerships while cultivating life-long learners and productive members of society.
NH’s Quality Recognition and Improvement System (QRIS)
NH has a new voluntary quality recognition system for licensed child care providers, known as Granite Steps for Quality (GSQ). Formally, NH had three (3) designations for quality child care: Licensed, Licensed Plus, and Accreditation (accredited programs). With this new QRIS, programs will focus on two quality standards which will promote a culture of continuous quality improvement. This focus will help improve the overall quality of Early Care and Education and Out-of-School Time programs in the state, thereby improving outcomes for children and families.
The GSQ system is now open for applications. Please apply for the GSQ using the printable application links below. At this time NHCIS online applications are paused until further notice.
Please mail your Application to:
DHHS/DCYF/Child Development BureauATTN: Credentialing Specialist129 Pleasant StreetConcord, NH 03301
Granite Steps for Quality Incentives
In recognition of their commitment to continuous quality improvement, programs awarded a Step in Granite Steps for Quality are eligible to invoice for quarterly incentive funds. For invoice and reporting templates and more information about allowable and non-allowable use of these funds, use the links below.
Professional Development Opportunities:
- Taking Care of Business: An Administrator’s Overview
- Leading With Heart: How to Build Effective Teams
- Successful Coaching and Mentoring for Employee Growth
- An Administrator’s Overview of Assessment in Early Care and Education
- Creating a Business Plan for Your Family Child Care Program**
- Budgeting and Financial Planning for Your Family Child Care Program**
** These two (2) Business Practices Trainings are only accepted for Family Child Care Programs
Upcoming Intro and Overview of Environment Rating Scales Training Opportunities
Upcoming Intro and Overview of ERS & SACERS Virtual Trainings
