Step 1: Deciding On Type of Childcare Provider

What type of childcare are you interested in providing?

How many children and of what ages were you thinking?

Visit this link to the Department of Public Health and Human Services for Montana here they list and go over the different options to consider.

Step 2: Licensed or Registered/ Application Packets

So, you’ve decided to go the child care center route. Here is the link to the application packet for this process.

Or, you’ve decided to go the group family/group provider route. Here is the link to the application packet for this process.

Step 3: Reach Out for In-Person Help and Resources

For Sweet Grass County MT, our local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency is HRDC 7 Billings. Check out their provider resources page here.

They administer state funded programs like the Best Beginnings Scholarship, STARS to Quality, and CACFP, among other programming to support early childhood in our region. You can call their main line at 406-247-4732 or email childcare@hrdc7.org to get connected.

Process Documents & Flowcharts – Download

Becoming a licensed or registered provider is an involved process, but it is doable with organization, focus and help. We’re here for you. Call (406) 740-2510 and ask for Catherine. We’ll get you pointed in the right direction.

This new provider flowchart is one useful document you’ll want to download and reference from time to time.

Also, make sure to download and read the childcare provider rules and regulations from the state of Montana for the type of care you intend to provide either center or family/group provider.