What Is NAEYC Accreditation?
By First Cubby Editorial · Updated 2026-07-10
NAEYC accreditation is a voluntary, higher-bar quality mark for early-childhood programs — stricter than a state license. Accredited programs meet a set of standards covering curriculum, teaching, staff qualifications, ratios, health, and safety. It’s a strong quality signal, though not every excellent preschool chooses to pursue it.
What it is
NAEYC — the National Association for the Education of Young Children — runs the most recognized accreditation for preschools and child care centers. Earning it is optional, costly, and time-consuming, which is part of why it signals commitment to quality.
The ten standards
NAEYC accreditation is built on ten program standards: relationships, curriculum, teaching, assessment of child progress, health, staff competencies, families, community relationships, the physical environment, and leadership & management. Notably, its ratios are tighter than most states require.
Accreditation vs. license
Licensing is required and sets minimum health and safety standards; accreditation is voluntary and sets a higher quality bar. Think of licensing as the floor and accreditation as a gold star on top.
Is it a must-have?
No — treat it as a strong bonus, not a filter. Many wonderful programs aren’t accredited (it’s a big lift for a small school). Weigh it with everything else in signs of a good preschool and how to choose a preschool.
Frequently asked questions
What is NAEYC accreditation?
NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accreditation is a voluntary quality certification for early-childhood programs. Accredited programs meet a set of standards — covering curriculum, teaching, staff qualifications, ratios, health, and safety — that go beyond basic state licensing.
Is NAEYC accreditation better than a license?
It’s a higher bar. Licensing is mandatory and sets minimums; NAEYC accreditation is optional and stricter (including tighter ratios). It’s a strong quality signal — but a great program can still choose not to pursue it, since it’s costly and time-consuming.
Should I only choose an accredited preschool?
Not necessarily. Accreditation is a helpful signal, not a requirement. Many excellent preschools aren’t accredited. Weigh it alongside licensing, ratios, and what you observe on a tour.
What standards does NAEYC accreditation cover?
NAEYC uses ten program standards spanning relationships, curriculum, teaching, child assessment, health, staff competencies, families, community, the physical environment, and leadership/management.
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