606 CMR, § 7.01
In 2005 the Massachusetts General Court created the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), which became operational July 1, 2005. Responsible to an independent Board of Early Education and Care, EEC combines the functions of the former Office of Child Care Services (OCCS) and the former Early Learning Services Unit at the Department of Education. EEC is responsible for the licensing of early education and care programs and for providing financial assistance for child care services to low-income families, information and referral services, parenting support for all families, and professional development opportunities for staff in the early education and care field. The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care is to provide the foundation that supports all children in their development as lifelong learners and contributing members of the community, and to support families in their essential work as parents and caregivers. In fulfilling this mission, EEC has developed specific regulations to be met by all providers of early care and education services in the Commonwealth, whether home, school or center-based.
In developing these standards EEC has sought to build on the strengths of the existing systems of licensing and program quality, put children and families first, and be flexible and accountable. Further, EEC has sought to establish standards that support high quality early education and care programs that reflect the diversity of the Commonwealth; strengthen families; and help children learn and grow physically, socially, emotionally, and educationally.
Unless specifically noted in 606 CMR 7.00, all requirements in 606 CMR 7.00 apply to all programs providing non-residential services to children younger than 14 years old outside their own homes, regardless of the care setting or the age of the children served.
606 CMR, § 7.01