Choosing Child Care

Surviving Parenthood Resource Directory » Choosing Child Care

Finding a childcare situation to meet your specific needs may be a frustrating task. Affordable childcare, in a convenient location, with convenient hours, can be difficult to find. Very often there are long waiting lists…PLAN AHEAD.

AWARENESS IS KEY. Most childcare settings are safe and provide quality care. However, parents should take some precautionary measures:

  • Obtain a list of other parents with children in the center and call them for references.
  • Find out the center’s policies on discipline, naptime, toilet training, feeding, etc. Decide whether these policies are compatible with your own practices. CORPORAL PUNISHMENT IS ILLEGAL IN LICENSED CHILD-CARE FACILITIES.
  • Make unannounced visits to the facility. Be suspicious if you are told you can only visit at certain times.
  • Listen to what your child tells you about the childcare. Notice any sudden changes in your child’s behavior.
  • If you suspect a problem, share your concerns with other parents. Report suspicions of abuse or get more information from Children and Family Services or the police.
  • To register or inquire about a complaint against a child care facility,

Child Care Services

Contra Costa Child Care Council: CocoKids

Website: cocokids.org
Telephone: (866) coco-kids
Administration: (925) 676-5442

The Contra Costa Child Care Council keeps a current file on all types of child care programs. Call for information and resources for choosing quality child Care. Child Care subsidies available for eligible low-income families. Also provides parent education and support, including classes, on child development, health, nutrition and safety.  

Trustline

Website: trustline.org
Telephone: (800) 822-8490

California’s background check for babysitters and nannies. Conducted by the CA Dept. of Justice and administered by the CA Dept. of Social Services and CA Childcare R&R Network. Our hours of service are Mon-Fri 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. The cost of services is free to check on a status; however, there is a fee of $130 to apply to the background check. Spanish services are available.