Welcome to the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Services, your dedicated resource for ensuring safe, healthy, and enriching early childhood environments. The DHS Cares Program embodies our commitment to providing comprehensive support and resources for families and child care providers across Tennessee.
Become a Child Care Provider with the DHS Cares Program
Are you passionate about early childhood education? The DHS Cares Program is actively recruiting individuals and organizations to become Child Care Certificate Program Providers. This vital program increases access to quality child care for families across Tennessee. By becoming a provider, you play a crucial role in shaping young lives and strengthening communities. Click HERE to Learn More about the requirements and application process and join the DHS Cares Program network.
Easily Locate Child Care Services Near You
Finding the right child care for your family is a significant decision. The DHS Cares Program simplifies this process with the user-friendly Child Care Locator tool. This innovative resource allows you to search over 2,000 licensed child care agencies throughout Tennessee, ensuring you can find trusted and approved care within your community. We are continuously improving this tool to provide the most up-to-date and comprehensive information as part of our ongoing commitment to Tennesseans. Start your search today by clicking the button below:
Stay Informed: Rulemaking Hearings for Child Care Services
The Tennessee Department of Human Services is committed to transparency and continuous improvement in our services. As part of the DHS Cares Program, we hold public Rulemaking Hearings to discuss important updates and changes to child care regulations and services. Public hearings were recently held on March 19, 2024, to gather valuable feedback and input from the community. For detailed information regarding these rulemaking notices and hearing locations, please refer to the following link:
Protecting Children: Report Child Care Violations
The safety and well-being of children in care is paramount to the DHS Cares Program. If you have concerns or wish to report child care violations or complaints, please call our dedicated Child Care Complaint Hotline at 1-800-462-8261. Your vigilance helps us maintain the highest standards of care across Tennessee.
Contact Your Local Child Care Licensing Office
Do you have further questions about child care licensing, provider information, or the DHS Cares Program? Our dedicated Child Care Licensing Offices are here to assist you. Contact information for your nearest office can be found by clicking here. We are committed to providing responsive and helpful support to all members of the Tennessee community.
