Wisconsin Department of Children & Families (WI DCF)
The Mission of the Department of Children and Families is to improve the economic and social well-being of Wisconsin’s children, youth and families. The Department is committed to protecting children and youth, strengthening families, and supporting communities.
Our five overarching goals are:
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Children are nurtured, safe and engaged
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Enhance prevention and early intervention efforts throughout Wisconsin
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Families will have access to quality early care and education
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Parents will secure and maintain meaningful jobs
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Fathers will be more engaged in the lives of their children
The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families’ public search of regulated child care and YoungStar-rated programs allows parents to search for safe, quality child care in Wisconsin. Many providers are rated by YoungStar so that you can know how they measure up against research-based quality indicators.
Licensed Child Care
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the state agency responsible for licensing and ongoing monitoring of child care centers.
There are 3 different categories of state licensed child care:
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Licensed Family Child Care Centers provide care for up to 8 children. This care is usually in the provider’s home.
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Licensed Group Child Care Centers provide care for 9 or more children. These centers are usually located somewhere other than a residence and may be small or large in size.
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Licensed Day Camps are seasonal programs that provide experiences for 4 or more children. These programs usually operate in an outdoor setting.
Wisconsin Department of Child and Families Licensing Rule Book: Licensing Manual
Contact Us
Department of Children and Families
201 East Washington Avenue, Second Floor
P.O. Box 8916
Madison, WI 53708-8916
Main Contact Telephone Number: 608-267-3905
Fax: 608-266-6836
Email: dcfweb@wisconsin.gov
