Making Tuition Affordable
At Giraffe Laugh, we believe no family should have to choose between affordability and quality early education. That’s why we’re here to help with state assistance through ICCP (Idaho Child Care Program) and our own Giraffe Laugh scholarships for families who qualify.
What is ICCP?
If you’re working, going to school, or in job training, the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) may be able to help cover a big portion of your child care costs. ICCP helps low-income families afford child care by providing financial support through the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare.
This program is here so you don’t have to choose between building your future and giving your child a strong start. At Giraffe Laugh, we believe every child deserves a safe, loving place to grow. That’s why we accept ICCP at all of our locations.
Why it’s important:
By the time your child turns five, over 90% of their brain development has already occurred. That’s why it’s so critical for children to spend their earliest years in safe, engaging learning environments even when families are busy building their future.
You might qualify for ICCP if you are employed, enrolled in school, or participating in an approved training program.
Families who qualify pay a portion of tuition, called a co-pay, directly to their child care provider. The state covers the rest, with the total amount based on:
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Your work or school hours
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Your household income
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Your child’s age
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The provider’s type and location (Giraffe Laugh is in Cluster 2)
✅ As a licensed ICCP provider, Giraffe Laugh accepts ICCP assistance at all of our five locations.
How Much Help Could You Get?
Every family’s situation is different but if you qualify for ICCP, it can cover a big portion of your monthly tuition. What you pay (your co-pay) depends on things like your income, family size, your child’s age, and how many hours you work or go to school.
For example:
- If your income is under $1,700/month, your co-pay might be around $20 per child
- If you make between $3,000–$4,300/month, it could be $50–$75
- If your income is below the poverty level, your co-pay may be $0
ICCP also has set reimbursement rates based on your child’s age. For families in Ada County (Cluster 2), the state may help cover:
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Up to $899/month for infants (0–23 months)
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Up to $875/month for toddlers (24–35 months)
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Up to $800/month for preschoolers (36–59 months)
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Up to $749/month for school-age children (5–12 years)
How to Apply for ICCP?
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Check your eligibility at the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare
- Fill out this form.
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Using the form, you can apply online, through mail, fax, phone, or in-person, or renew your ICCP status.
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Share your results with your Giraffe Laugh site director. Make sure to always check back in with the Dept. of Health & Welfare after you submit your application.
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Ask us about additional scholarships
What if i don't qualify?
Don’t worry! You’re not alone. Giraffe Laugh offers private scholarships to help fill the gap if you:
- Don’t meet ICCP requirements
- Are in between jobs or statuses
- Need temporary support
If you are still unsure, talk to your site director about what’s available.
Giraffe Laugh Scholarships
Giraffe Laugh offers need-based scholarships to help families access affordable, high-quality early care and education. Scholarship eligibility is determined by household size and income, and we require the most recent 30 days of income verification (such as pay stubs) as part of the application process.
Our site directors will work closely with you to determine eligibility and walk you through the steps. We’re committed to making our programs accessible to all families, and scholarships are awarded based on available funding.
If you have questions or need help applying, we’re here to support you every step of the way! Contact your Site Directors today or fill out our waiting list form!
Giraffe Laugh Early Learning Centers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing affordable, high-quality care for children ages 0–5 and their families throughout the Treasure Valley.