Many families struggle to pay for child care. Quality child care can be costly, as providers may have the expenses of paying for more experienced teachers, keeping group sizes small, and other factors that contribute to quality. You may qualify for help.

Below is information about Quality First Scholarships and other financial assistance available in Arizona. You may also qualify for reduced rates for having more than one child enrolled in the child care program or discounts based on your family income, employer and more. Be sure to ask your child care provider about discounts that may be available to you.

Quality First Scholarships

Quality First Scholarships help low-income families afford quality early care and education for their young children. Funded by First Things First, a limited number of these scholarships are available for children birth through age 5 through child care and preschool programs that are enrolled in Quality First. Child care programs distribute available scholarships to eligible families on a first-come, first-serve basis. Scholarships are tied to family income levels and are available for parents who may be working, looking for work or improving their work skills through training or education. Other eligibility requirements apply.

DES provides child care assistance (subsidy)

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Administration assists eligible families with child care costs, enabling parents to participate in employment and specific education and training activities related to employment or in certain other circumstances when parents are unable to provide care. Funding is limited.

For more information, visit the DES Child Care Administration’s website at www.azdes.gov/childcare.