NAEYC Accreditation began in 1985 with the goal of providing an accrediting system that would raise the level of early childhood programs. Since the NAEYC Accreditation program was launched, NAEYC’s operating costs for the accreditation system have never been fully covered by the fees assessed. We believe in our system and want to continue to support programs in their important work enhancing children’s well-being and early learning. To support the cost of the system, NAEYC implemented a small increase in the fees for pursuing accreditation beginning September 1, 2012. Programs submitting an Enrollment form (Step 1), Application (Step 2), or Candidacy Materials (Step 3) on or after September 1, 2012 will be subject to the new fee.