LOOKING FOR CHILD CARE
Choosing child care or preschool for your young child should be a positive experience for your family. Always remember that selecting child care is an important decision that strikes a balance between your needs as a busy parent and the developmental needs of your child.
To learn more about childcare openings in Summit County, visit our Summit County Child Care Marketplace, create a profile and search for availability or call Jessee Blumentritt at 970.406.3064 for assistance in setting up an account.
You can also visit https://www.coloradoshines.com/families to find more information on looking for child care. The Colorado Shines Child Care Resource & Referral line at Mile High United Way offers families one-on-one support to find licensed, quality child care.
PHONE: Contact a Child Care Navigator at 1-877-338-CARE (2273). They are there to assist you in English and Spanish, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
EMAIL -- Send an email to childcarereferrals@unitedwaydenver.org
Five Steps In Looking for Child Care:
Remember it is important to be an educated consumer when examining your child care options.
To find child care or preschool in Colorado you can call 1-877-338-CARE
Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For assistance in finding child care or preschool in Summit County, please visit the Summit County Marketplace.
Learn About Your Options!
Step 1:
After you have narrowed your choices, you can visit facilities or home programs.
Remember, programs can vary greatly from one another. The more programs you visit, the better perspective you will have on what is best for your child and your family. You can schedule tours directly the program's website.
VISIT
Step 3:
Once your child is enrolled in the program of your choice, it is important to stay involved. You now need to become a partner of your child’s program.
Always communicate with your provider on a regular basis. Find out how your child is doing during the day, what they are learning and how you can continue that learning process at home.
STAY INVOLVED
Step 5:
Once you have a list created a list and explored the Summit County Marketplace it’s time to start the interview process.
Your next step is ensure you have created an account on the marketplace and you have applied to open spots or waitlists at your desired site(s).
Ask Questions
Step 2:
To make an informed decision, you are encouraged to call the Division of Child Care and obtain/review provider files.
Each file includes licensing history, number of children allowed to be cared for, information on past complaints, information on past inspections and any restrictions to the license.
To obtain provider files you may call 303-866-5989 or 1-800-799-5876.
Provider files can also be viewed online at www.cdhs.state.co.us/childcare.
INVESTIGATE AND ENROLL
Step 4:
Child Care Resource & Referral is made possible in part by funding provided by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).
