Here are some platforms and resources where you can find free online childcare training courses with certificates. These courses are often designed for early childhood education, childcare providers, and those interested in working with children. Be sure to verify the current availability and certification details on each platform:

1. Alison

• Website: alison.com
• Courses: Alison offers free online courses in childcare and early childhood education. Examples include:
  • Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education
  • Introduction to Early Childhood Education
• Certificates: Free digital certificates are available upon course completion (you may need to pay for a printed certificate).

2. Coursera

• Website: coursera.org
• Courses: Coursera offers free courses from top universities and institutions. Some childcare-related courses include:
  • “Introduction to Early Childhood Education” by the University of Washington
  • “Child Nutrition and Cooking” by Stanford University
• Certificates: You can audit courses for free, but certificates usually require payment. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

3. OpenLearn by The Open University

• Website: open.edu/openlearn
• Courses: OpenLearn provides free courses in early childhood development and education. Examples include:
  • “Early Childhood Development and Learning”
• Certificates: Free certificates of participation are available for some courses.

4. ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI)

• Website: cceionline.com
• Courses: CCEI offers free trial courses in childcare and early childhood education. Examples include:
  • “Child Development Associate (CDA) Preparation”
• Certificates: Certificates are available for trial courses during the free period.

5. FutureLearn

• Website: futurelearn.com
• Courses: FutureLearn offers free online courses in childcare and education. Examples include:
  • “Supporting Early Childhood Development”
• Certificates: Free access to course materials, but certificates require payment.

6. ProSolutions Training

• Website: prosolutionstraining.com
• Courses: ProSolutions offers free introductory courses in childcare and early childhood education.
• Certificates: Certificates are provided for completed courses.

7. CDC Training (Child Development)

• Website: cdc.gov
• Courses: The CDC offers free training resources on child development and early childhood education.
• Certificates: Some courses provide certificates of completion.

8. Udemy (Free Courses)

• Website: udemy.com
• Courses: Udemy occasionally offers free childcare-related courses. Examples include:
  • “Introduction to Child Psychology”
• Certificates: Free certificates are provided for free courses.

9. Penn Foster

• Website: pennfoster.edu
• Courses: Penn Foster offers free trial courses in early childhood education.
• Certificates: Certificates are available for trial courses.

10. Local Government and Nonprofit Organizations

• Many local governments and nonprofits offer free childcare training programs, especially for those pursuing careers in early childhood education. Check with your local community centers or childcare agencies.

Tips:

• Always verify if the certificate is recognized in your region or by potential employers.
• Some platforms may require payment for certificates even if the course is free.
• Look for financial aid options if certificates are not free.