Training FAQs

What is the Child Care Training Approval Program?

Maryland’s Child Care Training Approval Program is designed as a means to ensure quality of training offered to child care professionals in Maryland.  This program is designed so that individuals/organizations are approved in accordance to the requirements identified in COMAR 13A.14.08.  The ultimate goal is to ensure that child care professionals have access to quality training opportunities.

A list of the FAQs is available here (PDF).

As of July 1, 2021, all trainers and training organizations may resume face-to-face training without limitations.

Virtual training will continue following the guidelines previously given.

To register for the required Training Orientation, visit https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/trainers

For questions, contact the Training Approval staff at trainingcredential.msde@maryland.gov

Approval numbers are valid for a 4-year period as long as the trainer/organization is operating within the regulations COMAR 13A.14.08 and abiding by ethical standards.  Renewal applications must be received 30 days prior to expiration date of approval number with all supporting documentation.  Supporting documentation includes 24 hours of training in the training of adults or the approved subject/domains.  Renewal will be granted if all quarterly training reports have been submitted and application is complete with the required number of continued training hours attached.

Contact Training Approval Coordinator for status of proposals.  Proposals are reviewed within 60 days of receipt.  Letters are generated following training review sessions conducted every other month. 

Training approval numbers are assigned by the automated tracking system.  Each number is unique to the individual/organization and must be designated on training certificates issued to child care professionals.

The application and required documents are reviewed and approved by the Training Approval staff within the Division of Early Childhood’s (DEC) Workforce Advancement Branch. Training proposals are reviewed by the Training Review Team, which is composed of advanced trainers and Workforce Advancement Branch staff.  Recommendations for approval are based on an established and approved rubric.

Approved core of knowledge (COK) trainers are able to develop and deliver training that is accepted for the Maryland Child Care Credential and continued/elective training to meet licensing regulations.  Child care professionals who access training opportunities from an approved trainer can be confident that the training content meets quality standards, is delivered following proper adult learning principles, and is correlated to meet Core of Knowledge content areas.  Trainers can obtain continued training to enhance their own professional development and meet the training requirement for renewal by attending Quarterly Trainers Meetings

Trainer orientation is a requirement for submitting a Training Approval Application.  During the orientation session applicants will receive knowledge of the training approval process, requirements, and Core of Knowledge content areas.  This is an opportunity for applicants to ask questions and get pertinent information to help with the process.

All individuals/organizations who work with child care professionals, except community colleges; universities and approved national organizations that offer training to child care providers; or individuals recognized by the Office as authorities in their field.

Maryland’s Child Care Training Approval Program is designed as a means to ensure quality of training offered to child care professionals in Maryland.  This program is designed so that individuals/organizations are approved in accordance to the requirements identified in COMAR 13A.14.08.  The ultimate goal is to ensure that child care professionals have access to quality training opportunities.