We provide a variety of information and services for families. Our trained parent counselors are available to help you with your parenting questions and concerns. Some of the issues we can help you with include:
- Assistance in locating child care providers in your area that meet your family's specific needs
- Information about quality care for children
- Child care checklists to assist you on visits to child care programs
- Help determining if your family is eligible for subsidized care
- Information about how to locate and hire in-home caregivers
If you need child care, call 631-462-0303 and ask to speak to a parent counselor. Together you will explore your options and learn what to look for when visiting each program. Free checklists are available.
We invite you to become a member of the council for $40.00 for the year, however our service is available free to all families, regardless of income.
Child Care Options
Choosing a child care program is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. Your final choice will depend on many factors, and you will want to consider them carefully in order to best meet the needs of your child and your family.
In order to help you select a program we have created checklists with suggested questions and things to look for when evaluating a facility. Please feel free to print out these checklists and bring them with you when visiting a center, a family child care home, or interviewing an in-home provider.
When making a child care decision, look for the best match for your child's developmental needs. There are many studies that show a direct link between quality child care and school readiness. High quality early care and education programs have a strong and lasting effect on a child's success in school all the way through high school. These programs focus on all the needs of the child including emotional warmth, play, mental stimulation and good nutrition.
Searching for child care services can be a labor intensive process, but be assured that all the time you spend finding the right child care situation will be worth it. Children and parents who are satisfied with their arrangements are less likely to feel stress in other parts of their lives. Children can build strong relationships with their caregivers, and develop and grow in a safe and loving environment with their peers. Parents can relax knowing their child is well cared for in a safe, nurturing, educational environment.
ConsiderationsThere are many things to take into consideration when trying to find child care/daycare. Some factors will be more important to you than others, depending on your own individual circumstances. It is very important for parents to visit potential child care programs before making a decision about child care. Programs vary widely in quality, environment, and how they handle children’s developmental needs. You should see the program for yourself, and meet the person(s) who will be caring for your child before you choose care.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.
Our office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We are located at:
60 Calvert Avenue
Commack, NY 11725
Phone: (631) 462-0303
Fax: (631) 462-1617
Email: resourcereferral@childcaresuffolk.org