Are you a parent in Central New York looking for child care resources? You're not alone. Many families in the area are in the same boat, and luckily, there are organizations that can help. The New York State Early Childhood Family Guide, Child Care Application, and Temporary Assistance for the Needy are just a few of the resources available to parents seeking child care. The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) works in partnership with the Early Care and Learning Council, Inc.
to make the process of finding child care easier and more efficient. Parents can fill out a single form and submit it to any child care provider they're interested in. This eliminates the need to fill out multiple forms and saves time. Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (CCRR) are also available in every county of New York State. These agencies provide services to both parents and child care providers.
Home-based programs, also known as family child care programs, offer 3K and EarlyLearn courses at home by a qualified, licensed child care provider. CCR&Rs are on the front lines and provide direct assistance and support to parents, child care providers, and employers in their communities. They can provide a list of potential providers, but it's important to remember that this is just a starting point. You'll need to contact the provider to see if they have space for your child and visit the provider you select to make sure it's the right fit. In addition, several people can refer a child to the Preschool Special Education Committee (CPSE), such as the parent, doctor, court official, a designated person in a public agency, or someone from an early childhood counseling center, an approved preschool program, or the Early Intervention Program (EIP). Mental health consultation for infants and young children (ITMHC) is an intervention that benefits the social and emotional well-being of infants and young children by providing services in partnership with adult caregivers. Prospective child care providers may want to consider what the needs of their community are before opening a business.
Alan Jones, executive director Kelley LeClair, child care program coordinator Brittney Cowen, child care business specialist P., Marcia Rowe Riddick, executive director Rhonda Carloss-Smith, director of child care services 352-358 Classon Ave., are just some of the people who can help with this process. Child Care Resource & Referral programs coordinate and plan local child care services. They prioritize placing children in safe, high-quality day care and provide additional resources and supports to strengthen families. The Office of Children and Family Services is also committed to providing assistance with child care costs through their Child Care Subsidy Program. Finding quality childcare can be a daunting task for parents in Central New York. However, with the help of organizations like OCFS, CCR&Rs, CPSE, ITMHC, and other resources available in the area, parents can find reliable childcare that meets their needs.
With proper research and planning, parents can find quality childcare that fits their budget.
