Natchitoches Early Childhood Education Initiative: Scan QR Code to Donate Today!
An Early Care & Education Center provides childcare services for children 6-weeks-old to 12-years-old. Our district is home to 9 of these centers, all of which offer before and after school care. In addition to the essential services provided at our Early Care and Education Centers, our Early Childhood Network offers tuition-based programs designed to help reduce childcare costs at these facilities which can be found below.
This program provides services for children from birth to age 3. It aims to support local families in obtaining high-quality care and education for their young ones at no cost.
This program enhances accessibility to early childcare. It supports unemployed, employed, and newly employed parents by alleviating childcare expenses. It not only addresses financial barriers, but also fosters the growth and development of young children, allowing families to invest in their child’s future. Therefore, instead of asking why one should apply, the true question is: Why not apply?
Applicants must submit a paper application along with all required documentation to apply for the scholarship program. For details on the required documents needed, please click on the checklist tab below.
Parents can visit our office Tuesday through Thursday between
8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to register with our Early Childhood Guide.
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a program offered by the Louisiana Department of Education for children from birth to 12-years-old.
To apply, parents can obtain a paper application and checklist at our office. Completed applications and required documents can be submitted to our Early Childhood Guide. For additional information about the program, please refer to the links provided below.
Private payment options are offered year-round at all 9 of our Early Care & Education Centers. This option is ideal for parents in need of childcare for a child who may not meet the eligibility criteria for the tuition-based programs previously outlined, as well as those who are new to our district.
Those opting for private pay are encouraged to contact the director of their preferred center to inquire about their childcare rates and related fees. Parents can apply through our website or in person at their preferred centers.
These programs will work collaboratively with families and the community in order to provide high quality, developmentally appropriate, early childhood education that will meet the diverse needs of all participating children and prepare them for a positive and successful educational experience.
*Note: All early childhood programs have different enrollment guidelines because they are funded through various federal, state, and/or private grants
