Innovative child care platform Wonderschool has launched “Wonderschool Academy” in New Mexico, a free program to help prospective providers start child care businesses out of their homes.

In collaboration with the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department, Wonderschool will offer its technology to support New Mexico-based parents, teachers or anyone who loves working with children in a virtual eight-week training program where they will learn how to create a sustainable child care business. The deadline for prospective providers to apply to the program is Feb. 21.

Access to child care has been a growing concern for New Mexico caretakers as families struggle to find care. As a way to provide in-person and virtual accessibility, Wonderschool Academy will be offering its first hybrid cohort. The program is designed to be inclusive and bring more providers to the region with the goal of filling the child care gap. With options for diverse challenges, participants will have the choice between accessing the class from their home on Zoom or gathering in a physical space.

“At Wonderschool, we are dedicated to removing barriers and making it easier for participants to start their programs so we can do our part in solving the child care crisis,” said Darcy Heath, new supply senior manager at Wonderschool. “We know that starting a child care business on your own can be intimidating. Many of the business owners we’ve worked with have faced unique challenges. That’s why we’re committed to providing free training for New Mexico residents to get licensed and offer tools, resources and coaching to help our providers successfully overcome those challenges.”

Wonderschool Academy participants will be able to design, launch and enroll students into their own child care program and use Wonderschool’s AI technology and tools to run their business. They will receive one-on-one coaching and support with tools and strategies for running their business and how to market it, and preparing for state licensing. Upon graduating from Wonderschool Academy, participants will receive up to $500 for the first year of insurance for their program, up to $500 for their licensing fees and support costs, and a complimentary, professional photoshoot of their space.

Wonderschool Academy eligibility requirements:

• Must be 18 or older
• Must live in the home where the program will run
• Must be able to pass background check
• Apply by Feb. 21, 2024