Making Quality Child Care More Affordable
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Michigan Child Care Subsidy Program
The Michigan Child Development and Care (CDC) program, managed by the Michigan Department of Education and the Department of Health & Human Services, helps cover child care costs for eligible families. Playful Scholars is proud to accept subsidies through this program and work directly with families to simplify billing and paperwork.
What Is the Michigan Child Care Subsidy?
The CDC subsidy helps low- and moderate-income families pay for licensed child care while they work, attend school, or participate in job training. Eligibility is based on household income and size. If you qualify, the state pays a portion of your child care costs directly to providers like Playful Scholars.
How to Apply for a Child Care Subsidy in Midland
How To apply:
1. Visit Michigan.gov/childcare
2. Use the “Am I Eligible?” tool to review income and activity requirements
3. Apply online through MI Bridges
4. Gather required documentation such as pay stubs, ID, and your child’s birth certificate
5. Select Playful Scholars as your child care provider
We’re happy to answer questions and walk families through the application process.
How Playful Scholars Helps Families Using Subsidies
Once your child is approved, our staff will complete the necessary verification forms and coordinate with the state on your behalf. We use Brightwheel for tuition billing, which clearly shows what portion is covered by your subsidy and what remains your responsibility. Everything is organized in one place, making it easy to stay informed and up to date.
Discounts & Flexible Payment Options
Sibling Discounts
Families enrolling more than one child at Playful Scholars receive 10% off the youngest child’s tuition. This ongoing discount helps make early education more affordable for growing families.
Flexible Billing Through Brightwheel
All billing is managed securely through Brightwheel. Families can use auto-pay, receive real-time receipts, and track all payments—whether full tuition or subsidized amounts. The app also lets you access year-end tax documents and weekly tuition summaries in one place.
Federal Tax Credits & Childcare FSAs (2025 Update)
A tax credit is a valuable tool for families, offering a dollar-for-dollar reduction in taxes owed. Some credits are even refundable, reducing taxes to zero and providing a refund. The American Rescue Plan Act expanded benefits for families with children, especially regarding child care. Here’s a breakdown:
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Eligible families can claim up to $2,000 per child, with $1,700 refundable. IRS Child Tax Credit Page
Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit
Families can receive back up to 35% of qualifying childcare expenses — up to $3,000 per child or $6,000 per household. Learn more here
Dependent Care FSA (Flexible Spending Account)
In 2025, families can contribute up to $5,000 tax-free through their employer to cover childcare tuition, including at Learning Space Christian Academy.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Qualifying families with three or more children may receive up to $7,830. Check eligibility. You can also explore Michigan’s state tax credits for working families. Consult a licensed tax professional for personalized guidance.
Child Care Tax Credits for 2024
State-Level Tax Credits & Financial Resources
In addition to national tax programs, Michigan offers several financial assistance options at the state and local level to help families cover the cost of child care and preschool.
Michigan Department of Education Child Care Resources
Visit Michigan.gov/childcare for full details on subsidy programs, income eligibility, and links to application portals.
Local Nonprofit Support (United Way of Midland County, etc.)
Organizations such as United Way of Midland County may offer emergency assistance, scholarship funds, or referrals to child care financial support programs. Our staff is happy to help families connect with these community partners when needed.
Discover Affordable Child Care in Midland, MI
Learn more about tuition, subsidy programs, and discounts available at Playful Scholars. Our goal is to make high-quality early education accessible to every family.