Quick answer: The Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) helps eligible families pay for licensed child care. The LAB Child Care Center in Easton, MD is a licensed, Maryland EXCELS-participating provider, so we can accept CCS vouchers for qualifying families at both our Creamery Lane and Cynwood Drive locations — including infant care. Call (667) 202-1649 to confirm availability and get help using your voucher.
Paying for quality child care is one of the biggest expenses a young family faces. The good news for Easton and Talbot County families is that Maryland offers real help through the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) — a state program designed to make licensed, high-quality care affordable. This guide breaks it down in plain English so you know exactly what it is, whether you might qualify, and how to use it at The LAB Child Care Center.
What Is the Maryland Child Care Scholarship?
The Child Care Scholarship — formerly known as the child care "subsidy" or "voucher" — is a program run by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). It helps cover the cost of child care for eligible working families, students, and parents in job training. Instead of paying a check to you, the state pays your approved provider directly on your behalf, which lowers or covers your out-of-pocket cost.
Because the scholarship can only be used at licensed, participating providers, choosing the right center matters. The LAB Child Care Center participates in Maryland EXCELS, the state's quality rating system, which is what makes us eligible to accept CCS families.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is set by the state and is based mainly on three things:
- Household income — measured against income limits based on your family size. These limits are updated periodically by the state.
- Family size — larger households generally have higher income limits.
- A qualifying activity — such as working, attending school, or participating in job training.
Because income limits change and program rules can be updated, the best way to know if you qualify today is to check directly with the state or call the free LOCATE: Child Care line at 1-877-261-0060. They can walk you through current eligibility for Talbot County at no cost.
💡 Good to Know
Program availability and enrollment rules can change from year to year based on state funding. If you're thinking about applying, it's worth starting the process early and calling us so we can help you understand where things stand right now.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Gather your documents. You'll typically need proof of income, household size, and your qualifying activity (pay stubs, a school schedule, or training enrollment).
- Submit your application to the Maryland Child Care Scholarship program through MSDE. LOCATE (1-877-261-0060) can point you to the current application portal and answer questions.
- Get your approval details. Once approved, you'll receive information about your scholarship, including your family's copay (if any).
- Choose a licensed participating provider — like The LAB Child Care Center in Easton.
- Bring us your scholarship details so we can set up billing. From there, the state pays us directly and your out-of-pocket cost is reduced or covered.
Using Your Scholarship at The LAB Child Care Center
The LAB makes it simple to use your Child Care Scholarship. We serve children from 6 weeks through age 5 across two Easton locations:
- Cynwood Drive — infants through age 5, including a dedicated infant playroom (Maryland License #259166).
- Creamery Lane — ages 2–5, located inside The LAB Martial Arts and Fitness Center with 2,000+ sq ft of indoor mat space (Maryland License #256782).
Both locations are open Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, use the Brightwheel app so you get real-time updates throughout your child's day, and follow a play-based educational curriculum. Infant spots in particular are limited, so if you're planning to use a scholarship for infant care, we strongly recommend joining our waitlist early.
Why Families Trust The LAB
Beyond accepting the Child Care Scholarship, The LAB offers something families in Talbot County genuinely value: a warm, "home away from home" feel combined with the structure of a licensed center. Our staff have a genuine love for children, our martial arts bridge program (ages 4+) builds confidence and focus, and our two convenient Easton locations make drop-off easy no matter where you commute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The LAB Child Care Center accept the Maryland Child Care Scholarship?
Yes. We're a licensed, Maryland EXCELS-participating provider, so we can accept CCS vouchers for qualifying families at both our Creamery Lane and Cynwood Drive locations. Call (667) 202-1649 to confirm current availability.
What is the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS)?
It's a Maryland State Department of Education program that helps eligible families pay for licensed child care. Payments go directly to a participating provider on the family's behalf.
Who qualifies for the Maryland Child Care Scholarship?
Eligibility is based on household income, family size, and a qualifying activity such as work, school, or training. Income limits are set by the state. Check current eligibility by calling LOCATE at 1-877-261-0060.
How do I apply for the Child Care Scholarship in Talbot County?
Apply through the Maryland Child Care Scholarship program (MSDE). You'll need proof of income, household size, and a qualifying activity. Once approved, choose a licensed provider like The LAB and share your scholarship details so billing can be set up.
Can I use a Child Care Scholarship for infant care in Easton, MD?
Yes. If approved, it can be used for infant care at a licensed participating provider. Our Cynwood Drive location accepts infants starting at 6 weeks old. Infant spots are limited, so join the waitlist early by calling (667) 202-1649.