Finding safe, dependable child care is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. For many Indiana families, the cost of child care can also become one of the biggest barriers to working, attending school, completing training, or maintaining a consistent family schedule.
The good news is that Indiana offers child care assistance through the Child Care and Development Fund, commonly called CCDF. CCDF helps eligible families pay for child care so parents and guardians can work, go to school, or participate in approved training programs. In Indiana, CCDF is administered through the Family and Social Services Administration and the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning.
At The Weston School, we know parents are not just looking for daycare. They are looking for a place where their child can be safe, loved, supported, and prepared for success in school and in life. If you are applying for CCDF, already on the CCDF waitlist, or trying to choose a child care provider in Indiana, this guide will walk you through the process in a simple, parent-friendly way.
Need help choosing The Weston School as your child care provider?
Talk to our team about CCDF child care options here or call 317-676-1095 to speak with an enrollment specialist.
What Is CCDF Child Care Assistance in Indiana?
The Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF, is a child care assistance program that helps eligible Indiana families pay for child care. The program is designed to support families while parents or guardians are working, attending school, or completing approved training.
For eligible families, CCDF may help cover the cost of care with a qualified child care provider. This can make high-quality child care, preschool, pre-kindergarten, infant care, toddler care, and school-age care more accessible for families who need support.
Indiana families can learn more about the official CCDF program through the state’s child care assistance page.
Official Indiana CCDF Information:
Indiana FSSA Child Care Assistance Page
Who Can Apply for CCDF in Indiana?
Eligibility is determined by the State of Indiana, not by the child care provider. However, Indiana lists several general eligibility requirements for CCDF. These may include income, residency, child age, child citizenship or qualified legal status, proof of identity, a valid service need, and choosing a CCDF-eligible provider.
In simple terms, families applying for CCDF may need to show:
- They live in the Indiana county where they are applying.
- Their child meets the age requirement.
- Their household meets income guidelines.
- The parent or guardian has a valid need for care, such as work, school, or training.
- The family chooses a CCDF-eligible child care provider.
- Required documents are submitted correctly.
Because eligibility rules and income limits can change, families should always use the official Indiana FSSA website and speak with an eligibility specialist for the most accurate information.
How to Apply for CCDF Child Care Assistance in Indiana
Indiana families can apply for CCDF and On My Way Pre-K through Early Ed Connect, Indiana’s online application portal. According to Indiana FSSA, Early Ed Connect allows families to apply online, upload documents, apply for multiple children, save progress, and complete the process from a computer, tablet, or mobile phone.
Step 1: Visit Early Ed Connect
Start by visiting the official Early Ed Connect application website.
Apply Online Here:
Official FSSA Early Ed Connect Online Application
This is the official portal Indiana families use to apply for CCDF child care assistance and On My Way Pre-K.
Step 2: Create an Account or Sign In
If you are new to Early Ed Connect, you will need to create an account. If you already have an account, you can sign in and continue your application.
Use an email address and password you can access easily because you may need to check for updates, upload documents, or return to the application later.
Step 3: Complete the Application
The application will ask for information about your household and the child or children who need care.
You may be asked for information such as:
- Parent or guardian name
- Child name and date of birth
- Household members
- Address and county of residence
- Employment, school, or training details
- Income information
- Child care provider information
- Contact information
Take your time and make sure everything is accurate. Incorrect or missing information may slow down the process.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Indiana FSSA states that applications cannot be approved until all required enrollment documents are submitted. The state provides a document checklist to help families understand what may be needed.
Common document categories may include:
- Residency verification
- ID verification
- Service need verification
- Child care provider information
- Additional sources of income
- Parent applicant worksheet
- On My Way Pre-K agreement, if applicable
View the Official Document Checklist Here:
Link To The Official CCDF / On My Way Pre-K Document Checklist
Indiana FSSA also notes that some forms may not work well on certain cell phones, so using a computer or tablet may make the document process easier.
Step 5: Choose a Child Care Provider
As part of the process, families will need to choose a CCDF-eligible child care provider. This is where many parents begin comparing child care centers, preschool programs, early childhood education options, and locations that fit their family’s daily routine.
The Weston School accepts CCDF vouchers for eligible families and offers child care and early education programs across Central Indiana.
Families choose The Weston School for:
- Infant care
- Toddler care
- Preschool
- Pre-Kindergarten
- Before and after school care at select locations
- Safe, nurturing classrooms
- Play-based early learning
- Parent communication
- A strong foundation for school readiness
If you would like to choose The Weston School as your provider, our enrollment team can help you understand current availability and next steps.
Need help from our team?
Talk to The Weston School about CCDF child care options
or call 317-676-1095.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Once your application is complete and your documents are uploaded, submit your application through Early Ed Connect. After submission, you should receive confirmation that your application was submitted.
Make sure to watch for communication from the state or your eligibility specialist. You may be asked to provide more information, update documents, or confirm your interest.
Is There a CCDF Waitlist in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana FSSA states that there is a waitlist for new applicants to the CCDF and On My Way Pre-K voucher programs. New CCDF applicants are placed on the waitlist after applying. Priority may be given to On My Way Pre-K applicants, families earning below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level, and children of child care workers. Other applicants may receive vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis as funding is available.
While families are on the waitlist, Indiana FSSA states that they may receive regular communication asking them to reconfirm information such as contact details, employment status, and income.
This means it is very important to:
- Keep your phone number and email updated.
- Respond quickly to messages from the state or eligibility office.
- Save copies of all submitted documents.
- Reconfirm your interest when asked.
- Stay in communication with your preferred child care provider.
Can I Choose The Weston School While I Am on the CCDF Waitlist?
Yes. If you are applying for CCDF or are already on the CCDF waitlist, you can still contact The Weston School to ask about current openings, location availability, age groups, schedules, and next steps.
The Weston School cannot approve your CCDF application and cannot control waitlist timing. That process is managed by the State of Indiana. However, our team can help you understand how to choose The Weston School as your provider and what information may be needed during enrollment.
Helpful next step:
Call 317-676-1095 or visit our CCDF child care page to speak with an enrollment specialist.
Get CCDF Enrollment Help from The Weston School
What Documents Do Parents Need for CCDF in Indiana?
The exact documents may vary based on your family’s situation, but Indiana’s official checklist includes several common categories.
Residency Verification
Families may need to provide proof of where they live. Indiana’s checklist says residency documents should include your name, street address, and city or zip code and be dated within the past 60 days. Examples may include a driver’s license, pay stub, lease, utility bill, or piece of mail postmarked within the past 60 days.
ID Verification
An ID may be required for the applicant and co-applicant, if applicable. Families may also need verification of identity for children in the household. Examples may include a birth certificate, hospital-issued certificate, or other accepted documents.
Service Need Verification
Families may need to show why child care is needed. This may include work, school, training, self-employment, or other qualifying situations. Depending on your situation, documents may include pay stubs, new hire verification, school schedules, self-employment forms, or other records.
Child Care Provider Information
If you choose a child care provider, your provider may need to complete the provider information form. Indiana’s checklist notes that the chosen provider must complete the Provider Information form, which families can then upload to the online application.
Additional Income Documents
Some families may need to upload documents for additional sources of income, such as Social Security, SSI, TANF, unemployment, or other income sources.
Parent Applicant Worksheet
Indiana’s checklist includes a parent applicant worksheet and parent rights and obligations section. Families should complete and upload it as part of the process when required.
Parent Checklist Before You Apply for CCDF
Before you begin your CCDF application, it can help to gather your information in one place.
Use this simple checklist:
- Confirm your email address and phone number are current.
- Gather proof of residency.
- Gather ID documents for adults and children.
- Gather work, school, training, or income documents.
- Choose a preferred child care provider.
- Ask your provider about availability.
- Save digital copies or photos of your documents.
- Apply through Early Ed Connect.
- Watch for messages from your eligibility specialist.
- Respond quickly to any requests for updates.
Why Choosing the Right Child Care Provider Matters
Applying for CCDF is about more than completing paperwork. It is also about choosing the right place for your child.
At The Weston School, we understand the questions that keep parents up at night:
- Will my child be safe?
- Will my child learn?
- Will my child feel loved and cared for?
Our programs are built around safety, knowledge, and nurture. We support children through high-quality early childhood education, play-based learning, age-appropriate development, caring teachers, and communication with families.
Whether your child is an infant, toddler, preschooler, Pre-K student, or school-age child, our goal is to help your family feel confident and supported.
The Weston School Locations Serving Central Indiana Families
The Weston School serves families across Central Indiana with multiple locations, including:
- The Weston School – Avon
- The Weston School – Indianapolis
- The Weston School – Noblesville East
- The Weston School – Noblesville West
- The Weston School – Speedway
Availability may vary by location, classroom, age group, schedule, and current enrollment openings. If you are applying for CCDF or are already on the waitlist, contact our enrollment team to talk through your options.
Call: 317-676-1095
Book A Tour To Learn More
Need Help Applying for CCDF or Choosing a Provider?
You do not have to navigate the child care process alone.
If you are applying for CCDF, waiting for voucher approval, or trying to choose a trusted child care provider in Central Indiana, The Weston School is here to help you understand your next steps.
Our team can help with:
- Checking current classroom availability
- Discussing age-appropriate program options
- Explaining how to list The Weston School as your provider
- Helping families understand what provider information may be needed
- Connecting you with the right Weston School location
Talk to an enrollment specialist today.
Call 317-676-1095 or visit our CCDF support page.
Get Help from The Weston School
Frequently Asked Questions About CCDF Child Care Assistance in Indiana
What does CCDF stand for?
CCDF stands for Child Care and Development Fund. It is a child care assistance program that helps eligible families pay for child care so parents or guardians can work, attend school, or participate in approved training.
How do I apply for CCDF in Indiana?
Indiana families can apply online through Early Ed Connect, the official online application portal for CCDF and On My Way Pre-K.
Apply here: FSSA Apply Online for On My Way Pre-K or Child Care Assistance
Does The Weston School accept CCDF vouchers?
Yes. The Weston School accepts CCDF vouchers for eligible families. Availability may vary by location, classroom, age group, and enrollment openings. Families should contact The Weston School directly to discuss current availability.
Can The Weston School approve my CCDF application?
No. CCDF eligibility, approval, voucher status, and waitlist timing are handled by the State of Indiana. The Weston School can help families understand provider information and enrollment options, but the state determines eligibility.
Is there a CCDF waitlist in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana FSSA states that new applicants for CCDF and On My Way Pre-K are placed on a waitlist after applying. Families should continue checking for updates and respond to communication from the state or eligibility office.
Can I choose The Weston School while I am on the CCDF waitlist?
Yes. Families can contact The Weston School while they are applying or waiting to discuss availability, classroom options, and how to choose The Weston School as their child care provider.
What documents do I need to apply for CCDF?
Documents may vary by family, but Indiana’s checklist may include residency verification, ID verification, service need verification, child care provider information, income documents, parent applicant worksheet, and other forms depending on your situation.
View the official checklist here: FSSA Documents to complete your Child Care and Development Fund or On My Way Pre-K Online Application
What is service need verification?
Service need verification helps show why a family needs child care assistance. This may include proof of employment, school enrollment, training, self-employment, or other approved activities.
Can I apply for more than one child?
Yes. Indiana FSSA states that Early Ed Connect allows families to apply for multiple children in one application.
Can I upload documents from my phone?
Yes. Indiana FSSA states that Early Ed Connect allows families to upload documents, including photos from a phone. However, some forms may be easier to complete on a computer or tablet.
What happens after I submit my CCDF application?
After you submit your application, you should receive confirmation. If you are a new applicant, you may be placed on the waitlist. Continue watching for communication from the state or your eligibility specialist.
Who should I call if I need help choosing The Weston School as my provider?
Call 317-676-1095 to speak with a Weston School enrollment specialist or visit: The Weston School CCDF Child Care Assistance Page
