Any group or individual wishing to become a Lekotek must adhere to the following steps to develop a Lekotek. Only NLC approved and certified, sites and staff will be granted the right to use the Lekotek trademarked logo, philosophy, tools and practice the high standard services. Once the application is approved and the legal contract is signed, only then the site can operate as an official Lekotek.

1. Contact NLC to indicate your interest in becoming a certified Lekotek
2. Thoroughly investigate the NLC website
3. Download the Start Up Packet documents (free)
4. Review the Start Up Packet and contact NLC with any questions
5. Complete the Lekotek Application
6. Follow the step by step application process and complete with NLC assistance
7. Submit official application to NLC for approval
8. Once approved, check dates for next Lekotek Leader Training
9. Complete Leader Training Application (incl. Pre-Approval Form if needed)
10. Submit Leader Training Application for Approval

A Lekotek may be established as an independent entity or, more commonly as a new program within an existing service organization. A Lekotek site can be either center-based and/or provide an itinerant program to meet its client family needs. The design of the delivery method of core Lekotek family services is determined after evaluating the results of the Needs Assessment and to respond to the local community needs. Therefore, the types of services offered will differ among Lekotek sites, however, the core services at each Lekotek are the same. The core services include individual play sessions toy loaning and parent resources. Many of programs also offer play groups, parent/sibling support groups, special family events, and inclusive computerplay clubs. Lekotek programs can be found in a wide range of communities, including urban, suburban, rural, hospital settings etc. in order to meet and serve the needs of a diverse range of families.

• Operates independently, providing its own financial, space and staff support
• Ensures all staff meeting criteria are provided Lekotek Leader Training
• Compliance with all Site Requirements and Standards of Operation
• Utilizes the Lekotek Trademark Logo with compliance
• Provide Core Lekotek Family Services
• Meet all reporting and outcomes requirements
• Participate as often as possible in all NLC Regional Meetings, Workshops and Webinars

National Lekotek Center services and products provided to affiliate range from technical and logistical assistance, trainings, resource information dissemination, donation of new toys, newsletters to involvement in local and national projects and initiatives. For a complete list of benefits to our affiliates please click here (link to list of affiliate benefits)

* Please direct any questions regarding the start-up packets and/or the start-up process to Affiliate & Program Coordinator at 1.773-528-5766 ext. 408 or 1.800.366.PLAY or email Lekotek@lekotek.org

* To receive our start-up packets by mail there is $10 charge (check or credit card). Please contact us at lekotek@lekotek.org or download the Start-Up packet for free