New York’s Quality Rating & Improvement System
QUALITYstarsNY is New York’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) for early childhood programs, providing support and resources to improve and sustain high quality across New York State. We believe that all early childhood educators are committed to the young children they work with and are always intrinsically motivated to improve their practice. QUALITYstarsNY exists because we believe that early childhood educators across the state deserve the support to engage in continuous quality improvement.
Participate in 
Join QUALITYstarsNY to receive individualized support and resources to enhance the quality of your early childhood program. All types of regulated child care programs are eligible to participate in QUALITYstarsNY at no cost to programs. Interested in participating? Apply now or attend a virtual Information Session to learn more about QUALITYstarsNY and the benefits of participating.
Find an Early Childhood Program in Your Area
Search our interactive map to find early childhood programs participating in QUALITYstarsNY in your area! By participating in QUALITYstarsNY, programs demonstrate a commitment to excellence and are supported with a range of resources and expert guidance to create the best program they can for the children and families they serve.
Featured Resources
For Providers
Why Put It in Writing: The Importance of Documenting Program Policies and Practices
One effective way to keep your program running smoothly is by documenting your policies and practices in writing. This is where family and employee handbooks come in. Well-written handbooks are essential to the success and quality of your program. They’re like instruction manuals, often answering questions before they’re even asked. Specialist Susan DiNatale explores the power of putting policies and practices in writing.
Elevating Learning Through Play: The Power of Staff-Child Interactions
QUALITYstarsNY Specialist Stella Lundie gives examples of how early childhood education professionals can promote learning through play.
Windows to the World: Fostering Cultural Awareness Beyond Celebrations
QUALITYstarsNY Specialist Stella Lundie gives examples of how early childhood education professionals can incorporate culturally aware practices into their program.
Serve Healthy Meals at a Lower Cost with CACFP
We have all heard the saying “you are what you eat”. The food that fuels the body plays a role in physical health and mental well-being. Nutrition is critical to the growth and development of young children. For many families, putting healthy food on the table is not that simple. Food insecurity, access to wholesome meals, and cost can be barriers. Child care programs can reduce these barriers for children by participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).
For Families
Quality Care Checklist & Guide
View this guide to the options you have for child care, with a breakdown of the different features of each.
Choosing a quality early care and education program
Check out our brochure for help finding and promoting quality early learning experiences for your child!