A Stronger, More Accessible Approach to Accreditation 

NAEYC has redesigned its accreditation system to better support early learning programs on their path to high-quality early education. The Early Learning Program Quality Assessment and Accreditation System offers a more inclusive, flexible, and streamlined model that reflects the realities of today’s early learning landscape. Grounded in Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) and aligned with NAEYC’s Early Learning Program Standards, this new system makes it easier for programs of all types to demonstrate and sustain quality. 

This revamp builds on years of feedback from early learning programs, state education agencies, and research institutions, as well as insights from pilot participants. The result is an accreditation model that reduces complexity, improves accessibility, and provides multiple pathways for programs to engage in continuous quality improvement. 

Key Enhancements 

A Three-Tiered Model for Broader Participation 

The previous one-size-fits-all accreditation model has been replaced with a three-tiered approach to ensure greater accessibility while maintaining rigor:

• Recognition – Entry-level designation affirming foundational quality practices through documentation review.
• Accreditation – A full accreditation designation with documentation review and potential site visits. 
• Accreditation+ – Advanced level accreditation with guaranteed site visits and additional quality assurance measures. 

Each tier supports continuous improvement, allowing programs to build upon their quality journey at their own pace. 

A Streamlined and Less Time-Intensive Process 

Programs previously reported spending hundreds of hours preparing accreditation portfolios. The new model: 

• Reduces assessment items by nearly 50% (from 375 to 200) for Accreditation. 
• Eliminates redundant documentation requirements and focuses on meaningful quality indicators. 
• Introduces a simplified digital submission process, replacing paper-based portfolios with an intuitive online portal. 

More Affordable & Predictable Costs 

Accreditation should be attainable for programs of all sizes. With this in mind, NAEYC has: 

• Reduced upfront costs for initial accreditation by an average of $1,500 over five years. 
• Consolidated payment steps to make budgeting simpler and more predictable. 
• Introduced scaled fees based on program size to ensure fairness and affordability. 

Greater Accessibility for Diverse Program Types 

This model was designed to welcome a wider range of early learning settings, including: 

• Public and Private School Districts
• Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf programs 
• Family child care homes 
• Nature-based and outdoor-focused programs 
• Faith-based and multi-age early learning settings 

Enhanced Technology & Portal Experience 

A new accreditation portal will provide: 

• A modernized application process with digital tracking and progress updates. 
• Faster feedback loops, enabling programs to make improvements in real time. 
• One unified platform for document submission, training resources, and accreditation support. 

What This Means for Your Program 

If you are considering accreditation for the first time: 
Now is an ideal time to begin! With a tiered structure and more accessible pathways, NAEYC’s Quality Assessment and Accreditation System is designed to support your program at any stage of its quality journey. Learn how to get started today. 

If your program is currently accredited:
Your accreditation remains valid, and transition guidance will be provided based on your renewal timeline. Programs with an accreditation valid through February 2026 will continue under the previous system until renewal, while those renewing later will transition into the new system. More details are available on the Current Accredited Programs page. 

What’s Next  

NAEYC is committed to making this transition clear and manageable for all programs. Here’s how you can stay informed: 

• Review the FAQs – Find answers to common questions about the transition, requirements, and timelines. 
• Contact Us – Need additional support? Reach out to our Customer Care Team for assistance at [email protected].  

NAEYC Accreditation continues to be the gold standard in early childhood program quality assurance. We’re excited about these changes and look forward to supporting more programs in achieving sustainable, high-quality early learning experiences for all children.