Frequently Asked Questions- from Parents

Q: My child's elementary school has no before- or after-school child care on site. What are other options?

A: See the School-age programs list to find the center  that provides transportation and care for children from Redwood City public schools on the "traditional calendar". Licensed family child care homes may also provide that for families at your school; call 4Cs for referrals:655-6777. If your school has a license-exempt Afterschool (grant-supported) program, that may be an option; ask at the school office.

Q: Is there drop-in child care available for a young child? I only need occasional hours for short-term jobs or errands.

A: Generally, child care programs do not take children who aren't regularly enrolled since they are required by State Licensing to have completed paperwork on file for each child. They also must staff their classrooms ahead of time so may take a child on a space available basis only. Some programs may allow you to complete enrollment forms and use very part-time care or drop in with short notice. Other programs feel it's too disruptive to their programs to accommodate. You can call to inquire.

Q: I can't afford tuition fees at a part-day preschool and don't qualify for state-funded preschool, but I know my child should attend for school readiness and socialization reasons. What can I do?

A: Many parents face this situation! Parent cooperative preschools (2 in Redwood City) may be a more affordable option for you. Part-day or part-week schedules in a full-day center may also be less expensive, as might a preschool operated in a licensed home setting. Aside from those, many preschool enrichment programs, activities and events are available in the community through Parks & Rec Dept., Sequoia YMCA, the Redwood City Mothers Club, private art/music/dance/gym studios and other facilities. These can provide the learning and social opportunities to help your child be ready for kindergarten--besides, of course, what you provide at home!

More to come...(submit your question here)