Child Care Services
Child Care Services provides support for families with young children to enable the caretaker to hold a job, obtain training, or meet the special needs of the child
- Agency
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 1-302-255-9668
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Child Care Services provides support for families with young children to enable the caretaker to hold a job, obtain training, or meet the special needs of the child. Child care may also be provided in child abuse cases to help protect the child.
Child Care Services provides support for families with young children to enable the caretaker to hold a job, obtain training, or meet the special needs of the child. Child care may also be provided in child abuse cases to help protect the child.
Images & PDFs
Division of State Service Centers - Delaware Health and Social Services
An overview of various service areas provided by Delaware Health and Social Services, including Medicaid, public health, and child care services, aimed at assisting individuals facing financial hardship.
View Full ImageRe-Opening Delaware Child Care Safely: My Child DE
A resource aimed at supporting Delaware child care professionals during COVID-19, providing guidance on safe practices.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Child Care Services and Community Impact: A Delaware Perspective
5/10/2022 | Coverage: state
This report examines how child care services in Delaware enhance community well-being, particularly during economic downturns, by offering financial relief to families.
Source: Delaware Division of Social Services
Coverage Area: state
Rising Costs and the Necessity of Child Care Support
1/30/2023 | Coverage: national
This report outlines how increasing costs of goods and stagnant wages necessitate stronger child care support systems for low-income families.
Source: Urban Institute
Coverage Area: national
Stigma and Support: Child Care Assistance as a Necessary Resource
8/20/2020 | Coverage: national
This academic study highlights the role of child care assistance in mitigating financial hardships, while addressing misconceptions surrounding welfare stigma.
Source: Journal of Poverty & Society
Coverage Area: national
The Economic Benefits of Child Care Assistance Programs
3/15/2021 | Coverage: national
This report discusses the broader economic impact of child care assistance programs, emphasizing their role in reducing poverty and supporting workforce participation among low-income families.
Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Child Care and Development Block Grant Act Reauthorization
4/16/2014Reauthorized the CCDBG, improving health and safety requirements for child care providers and increasing support for low-income families.
No Child Left Behind Act
1/8/2001While primarily focused on K-12 education, this act emphasized the importance of early education and laid the groundwork for future child care initiatives.
Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)
11/28/1990Established federal funding for child care services and aimed to provide parents with assistance in paying for care.
Comprehensive Child Development Act
1/1/1971Proposed legislation aimed to create a comprehensive national program for early childhood education and child care services.
Economic Opportunity Act
7/30/1964The act aimed to eliminate poverty and included provisions for child care services to support low-income families.
FAQ
To find a licensed child care provider in Delaware, you can visit the Delaware Division of Social Services website, where you can search for providers by location and type of care. It's essential to check if the provider meets state licensing requirements, which ensure they adhere to safety and health standards. Additionally, you may consider asking for recommendations from other parents or consulting local parenting groups.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you in your search for a licensed child care provider:
- Visit the Delaware Division of Social Services website.
- Check for licensing and accreditation status.
- Read reviews or ask for referrals from other parents.
- Visit the facility to observe the environment and interact with caregivers.
- Ask about their curriculum and child-to-staff ratio.
Following this checklist can help you find a safe and nurturing environment for your child.
Here are some action items to take when evaluating child care options:
- Contact multiple providers to compare availability and fees.
- Schedule visits to observe interactions and ask questions.
- Review their policies on health, safety, and emergencies.
- Confirm their procedures for drop-off and pick-up times.
These steps will ensure that you choose a provider that aligns with your family’s needs.
Reference: https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dcyf/childcare.html
The information provided in this FAQ is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.
Delaware provides various financial assistance programs to help families afford child care services. The Child Care Subsidy Program assists low-income families by covering part of the costs associated with child care. Additionally, there are tax credits available for eligible families, including the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. It is advisable to check eligibility criteria and application procedures on the Delaware Division of Social Services website.
Reference: https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dcyf/childcare.html
Delaware offers a variety of child care services, including center-based care, family child care homes, and informal care by relatives or friends. Center-based care often provides structured programs with trained staff, while family child care homes offer a more personalized environment. Additionally, some families may choose informal arrangements, which can vary greatly in structure and quality. It's important to assess your child's specific needs and the qualifications of caregivers when choosing a service.
Reference: https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dcyf/childcare.html
