LOOKING FOR CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL
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, contact Lea Dreux.
To fill out a child care referral form, click here.
Five Steps to keep in mind while looking for care:
Ask Questions
Once you have a list of child care providers from your local Child Care Resource & Referral, it’s time to start the interview process. Click here to get the list!
Your next step is to contact providers to inquire about availability and narrow down your search. This is also a great time to add yourself to wait lists at centers if need be.
Learn About Your Options!
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 or live chat
Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For assistance in finding child care or preschool in Summit, Lake or Grand Counties, please call 970-406-3070 or email us.
You can also search online by visiting Colorado Shines.
Step 1:
Step 2:
Visit
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.
Step 3:
Investigate & Enroll
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.
Step 4:
Step 5:
Stay Involved
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.
Child Care Resource & Referral is made possible in part by funding provided by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).
