How to apply
Six paths to childcare help in Arizona, explained in plain words. You can read all of this without giving anyone your information.
Head Start & Early Head Start
Free federal preschool (ages 3–5) and infant-toddler care (0–2) for families with lower incomes. Immigration status is not part of eligibility.
- 1Find the nearest center by phone or the Head Start locator.
- 2Ask for a family enrollment worker, and ask for Spanish if you want it.
- 3Bring your child's birth record, immunizations, and any income proof.
- 4Ask to be placed on the waitlist even if the center is full today.
Tip: Families experiencing homelessness or receiving certain benefits often qualify automatically. Say so if it applies to you.
DES Child Care Assistance
An Arizona subsidy that pays part of your childcare bill while you work, study, or look for work. The child usually must be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, but the parent applying is not required to be.
- 1Apply online through DES, by phone, or with help from a community agency.
- 2Share proof of work, school, or job search hours.
- 3Wait for the approval letter, then choose a provider that accepts DES.
- 4Report changes in work hours so your help does not stop suddenly.
Tip: Applying for this subsidy for your child is generally not considered a public charge issue. If you are worried, talk with a free immigration legal aid organization first.
Scholarships & sliding-scale tuition
Many private and nonprofit centers keep a scholarship fund. It is rarely advertised — you usually have to ask.
- 1Call and ask: 'Do you offer scholarships or a sliding scale?'
- 2Request the form; it is usually one or two pages.
- 3If you are paid in cash, write a short self-declaration letter of income.
- 4Ask when decisions are made and whether you can reapply later.
Tip: A 'no' this month is not a 'no' forever. Funds often refill each quarter.
Community & nonprofit programs
Family centers, co-ops, and local nonprofits with low fees, playgroups, and short-term care.
- 1Visit during open hours; many do not need an appointment.
- 2Ask what a typical week costs and what is included.
- 3Ask if volunteering lowers the fee.
Tip: You can ask who sees your information before you fill anything out.
Faith-based programs
Churches, mosques, and temples often run affordable preschool or after-school care that is open to everyone.
- 1Call the office and ask for the program director.
- 2Ask whether you need to be a member (usually you do not).
- 3Ask whether religious activities are required or optional.
Tip: Reduced tuition is very common here and is almost always granted by simply asking.
After-school programs
For school-age children, usually 3 pm to 6 or 7 pm, with homework help and snacks.
- 1Ask your child's school office which programs they partner with.
- 2Fill out the short registration and pickup list.
- 3Confirm whether transportation from school is included.
Tip: Many after-school programs are free and ask nothing about income.
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