Top Trainings for Puerto Rico Child Care Professionals

Provider Requirement Levels

• Center Director: Typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a related field with experience.

• Teacher/Caregiver: Requirements generally follow federal Head Start or CCDF guidelines, often requiring a CDA Credential or an Associate degree in ECE.

• Assistant: Must be at least 18 years old and work under supervision.

Required Training Courses

• Pre-Service: Staff must complete training in health and safety topics (CPR, First Aid, SIDS, Prevention of Child Abuse) and an orientation to the specific facility’s emergency plans.

• Annual Requirements:

  • All Staff: Ongoing professional development hours are required, typically aligned with the Pasitos (Quality Rating Improvement System) standards.

• Mandated Topics: CPR/First Aid, Child Abuse & Neglect, Emergency Preparedness.

Reimbursable Training Information through the State

• ACUDEN Quality Grants: The Administration for the Care and Integral Development of Childhood (ACUDEN) manages CCDF funds, which can sometimes be accessed by providers for quality improvement activities, including staff training.

• Scholarships: While specific state-wide scholarships vary, ACUDEN often partners with local universities for ECE degree support.

Opening a Childcare Facility in Puerto Rico

• Agency: Departamento de la Familia - Administración para el Cuidado y Desarrollo Integral de la Niñez (ACUDEN).

• Contact: 787-724-7474

• Website: ACUDEN

• Steps: You must submit a proposal/application to the licensing division and undergo inspections by the Fire Department and Health Department.

Training we do not offer

• Local Health/Fire Certifications: Specific local certifications for fire safety or food handling must be obtained on the island.

• In-Person CPR/First Aid: Skills check required.

Please verify with your specific state or local licensing agency to ensure our training courses meet your current regulatory requirements.