How do I know if my child's program is developmentally appropriate?
Each child develops at his or her own rate socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively. A child may be very advanced in motor skills but not as advanced in social skills. A developmentally appropriate program recognizes this and encourages new skills for each child individually.

My two year old needs to socialize with other children. Are there part time programs available for a couple of days a week?
Child & Family Resources can refer you to family child care providers and centers which consider part week schedules. Also, local libraries and recreation programs frequently run story time or other fun activities for toddlers. (Nursery schools offering half day options usually start at age 3)

I need to work but I can't afford the cost of child care and I'm not eligible for financial assistance. What can I do?
Make sure you're considering ALL of your child care options. Network within your local community in order to explore additional resources. Consult your neighbors and co-workers. Many parents reduce costs by sharing child care services with each other. Remember: Some providers are willing to negotiate their fees.

I'm considering a career in early child care. How much training am I required to complete?
NJ state registered family child care providers are required to complete an initial 6 hour training, and must also complete 6 additional hours of training during the following three years. Child care center teachers and teacher assistants must complete 8 hours of training yearly.

I just had a baby and I'm returning to work. Should I choose a child care center or a family child care provider for my infant?
Family child care providers can care for up to five day care children in their homes. If they work by themselves and care for three children under fifteen months of age, they can then only take school age children. Centers are larger facilities caring for children of varied age groups. The infant: caregiver ratio in NJ is 4:1. Visiting a variety of centers and family child care homes will give you a sense of which option best meets your needs.

How do I know if my three year old is eating the right kinds of foods?
The USDA Food Guide recommends that, daily, children ages 2-6 years be offered: 2 servings each from the fruit, meat, and milk groups, 3 servings of vegetables, and 6 servings of grains, including bread, rice, cereal and pasta.

Do you have a question or a concern you'd like to discuss with a child care specialist? Call us at 973-927-6060. We're here to serve you.