As of July 1, 2026, child care licensure is managed by the Illinois Department of Early Childhood. For providers, nothing is changing. All licensing representatives and staff remain ready to assist you. If you have questions related to licensure, please reach out to IDEC directly at Questions.IDEC@illinois.gov or your current CCR&R.

Residential Monitoring

DCFS has introduced an updated monitoring model for in-state therapeutic residential programs, called the Residential Contract Performance (RCP) Monitoring model. Under this new approach, a contract’s performance is evaluated through a set of measurable standards that help ensure consistent, safe, high-quality care.

Monitors will perform unannounced observations, file reviews, review data and participate in staffings and meetings.

Residential Monitoring Program Performance Standards include:

Safety: Youth safety, both physical and emotional, is the top priority throughout their residential care experience.
Living environment: Youth are provided with a safe and stable living environment that includes adequate food, clothing and shelter.
Youth experience: Programs foster a positive youth experience by promoting safety, supporting skill building, encouraging strong staff engagement and ensuring youth have a voice in their care.
Youth and family-driven care: Services are guided by youth and families. Youth are empowered to participate in decisions, and families remain central to planning and support.
Staff training: Staff receive comprehensive training, ongoing education and regular supervision to deliver high-quality services to youth and families.
Milieu operations: Programs maintain a therapeutic and structured environment that emphasizes safety, operational consistency and effective daily programming.
Clinical programs: Clinical services are delivered by qualified professionals with the appropriate degrees, licenses and certifications required for their roles.
Management: Strong leadership and management practices ensure effective communication, sound governance and consistent operational oversight.
Quality improvement processes: A continuous quality improvement system is in place, supported by administrative processes that promote accountability and a culture of ongoing improvement.