File a complaint against a provider

If you suspect child abuse, neglect or exploitation at a child care facility, contact the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-3738. You may also file a complaint online or by mail.

Additional information for parents about child care in Missouri is available from the Department of Health & Senior Services.

Information for child care providers

Depending on the number of children you will provide care for, you may need a license to be a child care provider in Missouri. Learn if you need a license and how to apply.

Early Education Programs

Parents as Teachers

Parents as Teachers began in Missouri to help educate first-time parents of newborns about child rearing. It then expanded to all 50 states and seven other countries. Learn how to get training from education professionals on the best practices for raising your child. Contact your local school district to participate.

Head Start

Head Start is a national program that promotes school readiness by enhancing the social and cognitive development of children through the provision of educational, health, nutritional, social and other services to enrolled children and families. Visit a Head Start Center.

First Steps

First Steps is Missouri’s Early Intervention system for infants and toddlers, birth to age 3 who have delayed development or diagnosed conditions that are associated with developmental disabilities.