Every day is a fresh start, a new opportunity to do something that might improve a child’s life. Whether you’re a parent, a healthcare provider, or a caregiver here in Maine, we all share a common belief that brings us together.
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Together, we can shape a brighter future for Maine children
If we start early and work together, we can make a huge difference in the lives of the children who depend on us. That’s why Maine’s early childhood programs are here to lend a hand. Our goal is to empower and support parents and caregivers so they can positively shape a child's future.
Have Questions?
Call 211, option 5 for Help ME Grow to speak to a Family Support Specialist who will listen, link you to services, and provide ongoing support when needed.
Maine's Early Childhood Programs
Maine is committed to giving every child a bright start in life. Our early childhood programs offer resources and guidance for all Maine parents and caregivers.
Help Me Grow Maine
Nobody knows your child like you do. And nobody knows how children develop like the team at Help Me Grow Maine. We’re here to partner with you and help your child get a strong start in life.
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Maine Families
Our Family Visitors are free and come only when you want them to come. They give you tips, resources, support, and encouragement.
Early Childhood Consultation for Maine
Mental health starts early. We give educators, caregivers, and families skills and knowledge to build strong relationships with little children experiencing big emotions.
Early Intervention for ME
In a family-focused partnership, specialists show caregivers how to incorporate learning opportunities into an infant or toddler’s everyday activities to achieve developmental milestones.
Child Care Affordability Program
We help keep child care costs down while making sure you get to work with a provider you trust. Because every Maine family deserves success, and every Maine kid deserves a head start.
Rising Stars for ME
As a parent, you know the importance of selecting the best child care for your child and your family. Rising Stars for ME is a mandatory quality rating and improvement system for all licensed child care programs in Maine.
Public PreK
Public PreK provides high-quality early childhood education for 4-year-olds through a whole student and community approach. Public PreK is located in many elementary schools and may also be in your local Head Start, YMCA, child care center, or family child care program.
FIRST4ME
A pilot program in four communities in Maine, First4ME aims to improve the health and wellbeing of Maine children, support child care providers in maintaining and enhancing quality, foster strong family partnerships, and create pathways for all children to experience successful transitions through kindergarten.
FAQ's
- How do these programs benefit my child?
Our programs provide Maine children with early support and resources that lay the foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. From developmental support to emotional guidance and access to high-quality education, Maine’s early childhood programs work together with parents and caregivers to ensure that your child has the tools and opportunities to succeed from the start.
- Can any family take part in these programs?
Yes! Most of Maine’s early childhood programs are open to all families who want to participate, regardless of income or background.
Some programs, like the Child Care Affordability Program, may have specific eligibility requirements based on income. The goal is to ensure that every child in Maine has the support they need to succeed. Here's a breakdown by program:
Help Me Grow: This program is available to all families, offering developmental support and connecting you with resources that can help your child grow and thrive. There are no eligibility requirements or fees.
Maine Families: Maine Families offers free home visits to all families with children from prenatal to age 3. There are no income restrictions, and you can access this service whenever you feel you need support, guidance, or resources for your child.
Early Childhood Consultation for Maine: This program is available to all educators, caregivers, and families who need help supporting children from birth to age 8 with emotional or behavioral challenges. It is designed to provide guidance and build stronger relationships, regardless of your family’s background.
Early Intervention for ME: Referrals and self-referrals come to us directly from families, caregivers, physicians, social service agencies, child care programs, and home health agencies. We encourage anyone that has concerns about a child's development to make a referral.
Child Care Affordability Program: This program is focused on helping families afford quality child care. Eligibility is based on your household income and need for financial assistance to cover child care costs. Children at least 6 weeks of age to 13 years are eligible. Children between 13-18 years old who are physically or mentally unable to care for themselves, or are under court supervision, are eligible.
Public PreK: Public PreK is available to 4-year-olds in Maine, regardless of family income or background. Contact your local school district to learn about public PreK options in your community. Public PreK is located in many elementary schools that often partner with your local Head Start, YMCA, child care center, or family child care program.
- Are these programs available in all parts of Maine?
Yes! Maine's early childhood programs are available throughout the state. Whether you live in Madawaska or Portland, Washington or Oxford counties, there are resources and support available for your family.
- Is there a cost to participate in these programs?
Most Maine early childhood programs are free of charge for families. (You may have a family copay in the Child Care Affordability Program.) We’re on a mission to empower and support parents and caregivers so that wherever their light shines, it can positively brighten a child’s future.
We're here to help you help your child grow
- Toll-Free: 1-833-714-7969
- Phone: 207-624-7969
- Fax: 207-624-7994
- Email: HelpMeGrow@maine.gov