For Families
Tips for Online Search
To log into the child care search engine, you will need to have an email address. If you do not have an email address, there are many free email options for you. For example, Yahoo, Hotmail, and Gmail are popular alternatives.
Before you begin an online search, read the following tips carefully so that you will be able to get accurate information. Below are some of the things to think about as you start your search.
LOCATION
- Choose ONE town or zip code per search.
- Consider which towns or zip codes will be a reasonable commute by car or public transportation.
TYPE OF CARE
- You may choose more than 1 type of care per search. For a description of types of care, click here. (Link to Types of Care pub)
- In each search, only include children who will be enrolled in the same program together.
- For children in different types of care, do a separate search for each child.
CHILD'S AGE
- Enter your child's age based on the date that s/he needs care, and NOT how old your child is now. For example, if your child is now an infant, but will be a 15 month old toddler soon, you will want to find toddler programs for the future, not infant programs based on his/her current age.
SCHEDULE
- Enter the days and hours that you need child care. Factor in the time you will need for commuting to and from the child care location.
- Be aware that child care providers may offer specific part-week or part-day schedules. Even though they may be open during the days and hours you put in, you will need to call to see if they can accommodate your particular schedule.
- Child care programs and providers generally open at 7:30 AM and close at 5:30 PM. There are a few programs that open earlier and close later, but be aware that the earlier or later you specify hours needed, the fewer results you will receive.
If you are not satisfied with the online search results, or if you need further information or assistance, please call 888-530-2430 or 508-778-9470 and ask for an information & referral counselor. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM.
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