Quality Child Care
Forty years of early education research shows that childcare programs that have a positive effect on children's development are those with highly skilled teachers, age-appropriate activities, stimulating materials, and a safe environment. The Guilford County Partnership for Children and Smart Start help child care providers create effective early learning programs by offering professional development, technical assistance, and funding. The Partnership helps families enroll their children in high quality child care by providing financial assistance through the Department of Social Services. In 2010, 78% of children receiving financial assistance and 91% of children with special needs were enrolled in 4 and 5 star programs.
Contracted Services
Bringing Out the Best – UNCG Center for Youth, Families, and Community Partnerships
Consultation and training for childcare staff on developmental issues; screening/referral of children. Contact: Wanda Dodson-Huff, 256-0026, w_dodson@uncg.edu
Child Care Nurses – Guilford County Health Department
On-site technical assistance and nursing services to child care centers and homes. Contact: Lisa Alexander, 641-6130, lalexan@co.guilford.nc.us
Child Care Substitutes – GTCC
Trained childcare substitutes who allow teachers to further their education. Contact: Joanie Oliphant, 334-4822 ext 2712, jkoliphant@gtcc.edu
Family Support/Education – Family Life Council
Parenting workshops for parents and childcare teachers. Contact: Rebecca Starnes, 333-6890, ext. 227, RStarnes@chsnc.org
Provider Professional Development – Guilford Child Development
Technical assistance and supports to family child care homes to achieve increased levels of education. Contact: Joyce Fairley, 369-5018, Joyce@guilfordchilddev.org
Subsidy for Quality Care – Guilford County Department of Social Services
Financial assistance for children to attend 4 or 5 star centers and homes. Contact: DSS Day Care Unit, 641-3715
WAGE$ – Child Care Services
Bonuses for teachers who achieve higher levels of education and remain in childcare. (919) 967-3272, www.childcareservices.org
Resources To Find Childcare
Child Care Resource and Referral
Guilford Child Development, 369-5097
NC Division of Child Development and Early Education
Child Care Database http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us/search.asp
