In the ever-evolving field of childcare, continuous learning and professional #development are paramount. Childcare providers in New York understand the significance of staying up-to-date with the latest practices and approaches in #early-childhood education. One of the key players in this arena is the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and their Aspire Registry. This system has redefined the way childcare professionals engage in ongoing education and training. ChildCareEd, as a registered training organization within the Aspire Registry, offers a gateway to not only meeting training requirements but excelling in the field.
ChildCareEd and Aspire Registry
ChildCareEd, an internationally accredited organization, offers a comprehensive range of continuing education and Continuing Education Units (CEUs) focused on #early-childhood-education (ECE). As a registered training organization within the registry, ChildCareEd has the privilege of providing courses that qualify for OCFS training credits. This partnership ensures that their offerings meet the stringent standards set by OCFS.
Additionally, ChildCareEd is recognized as an Educational Incentive Program (EIP) Training Organization. The Educational Incentive Program (EIP) is a scholarship program that helps child care providers pay for training and educational activities with the intent to build provider knowledge, skills, and competencies in order to improve the quality of child care. To be eligible for EIP, child care providers must be required to take training and must be caring for children in a program regulated by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (NYS OCFS) or the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH).
For more information or scholarship inquiries, individuals can visit the EIP website or get in touch with EIP via email at eip@albany.edu. If phone communication is preferred, two numbers are available, (800) 295-9616 and (518) 442-6575.
Course Formats for All Learning Preferences
One of the defining features of ChildCareEd's courses is their adaptability to various learning preferences. Whether you prefer the flexibility of self-paced online courses or the interactive experience of virtual instructor-led training, ChildCareEd has you covered.
ChildCareEd's online self-paced courses empower learners to complete their training on their terms. These courses can be undertaken at your convenience, making them an ideal choice for busy childcare professionals. Additionally, ChildCareEd goes the extra mile by offering courses in multiple languages, excluding media elements. This inclusivity caters to a diverse audience, with courses available in languages such as Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Urdu, Farsi, and more. This commitment to accessibility ensures that learners can engage with the material in the language they are most comfortable with.
In-person courses, conducted via the Zoom platform, provide an interactive and engaging environment where learners can connect with instructors and fellow participants, fostering a sense of community and collaborative learning.
The Aspire Registry
The New York Aspire Registry is a comprehensive system developed and managed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). It is designed to support and enhance the professional development of early childhood and school-age professionals in the state of New York. The Aspire Registry offers a range of features and benefits that help childcare providers, #educators, and professionals in these fields in various ways:
- Professional Development Tracking: One of the central functions of the Aspire Registry is to allow individuals working in early childhood education and school-age programs to track their professional development. This includes keeping records of training and education, including courses, workshops, and certifications, allowing professionals to maintain a record of their ongoing learning and growth.
- Training Verification: The Aspire Registry verifies and maintains records of training and professional development activities completed by individuals within the field of early childhood education and school-age programs. This verification ensures that individuals have indeed participated in the training and have met the necessary requirements.
- Continuing Education Credits: The Aspire Registry is closely connected to the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and is a mechanism through which professionals in the field can earn and receive continuing education credits for the training and education they complete. This is essential for maintaining professional licenses and certifications.
- Access to Resources: Registered members can access a wealth of resources, including information on training opportunities, professional development resources, and other relevant materials.
- Community Building: The Aspire Registry also serves as a platform for building a professional community. It enables members to connect with other professionals in their field, fostering collaboration and networking opportunities.
- Scholarship Opportunities: The Aspire Registry may provide information about scholarship programs and opportunities for professionals in the early childhood education and school-age care sectors. These scholarships can help individuals access quality training and education without financial barriers.
About ChildCareEd
As an Approved Training Organization (ATO) with the Aspire Registry, ChildCareEd has solidified its position as a provider of top-notch courses that adhere to OCFS standards.
One of their flagship offerings is the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, which comes in various specialized tracks, including Preschool, Infant/Toddler, Family Child Care, and Home Visitor. What sets these courses apart is that they are entirely online, allowing learners to pace themselves as they embark on this educational journey.
The CDA Credential qualifies providers for positions such as Group Teacher and Director.
ChildCareEd is deeply committed to its mission of providing high-quality training that equips childcare providers with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles. The organization strongly believes that every child deserves a quality early childhood education, and they take pride in contributing to the realization of this vision.