As a parent, it is essential to make sure that your children receive quality and safe childcare services. In Central New York, there are a variety of resources available to help parents find the best childcare options for their children. The New York State Council on Children and Families has created the New York State Guide for Early Childhood Families to provide information on the different supports available for families. The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and the Early Care and Learning Council, Inc.
have partnered together to make it easier for parents to find the right childcare provider. Parents can fill out the Child Care Application once and send it to any childcare provider they are interested in. This form will provide the provider with all the necessary information about the family. Additionally, there are child care resource and referral agencies (CCRR) funded by the State Office of Children and Family Services that can help parents locate quality day care programs.
CCRRs are available in nearly every county in New York State, so parents can easily find one in their area. The Child Care Division (DCC) provides financial support to eligible families who participate in employment activities or specific employment-related educational and training activities. This support helps families access high-quality educational and early care environments for their children. Child care assistance is also available for children who have been victims of child abuse or neglect, as well as for families with homeless children. It is important to note that all child care programs in New York State are regulated by the Office of Children and Family Services, except for day care centers based in New York City, which are regulated by the New York City Department of Health. Additionally, all providers must have previous experience caring for children and must receive ongoing training in areas such as safety, nutrition, and child abuse prevention. The Kieran Act went into effect on October 27, 1998, which allows parents and guardians of children to access information about New York State criminal records about potential domestic caregivers they may be considering hiring.
Additionally, Gov is a pre-screening tool that provides New York State residents with a quick and easy way to find the benefits they could receive. The Office of Children and Family Services also provides assistance with child care costs through the Child Care Subsidy Program. The New York State Department of Education (NYSED) manages preschool special education programs and services for preschool students with disabilities, ages 3 to 5, through local school districts. Finally, if parents have any complaints about a childcare provider or program, they can call the state Office of Family Services toll-free hotline at 1-800-732-5207.
