🔍 Find Child Care Providers
Advocating for Your Child's Care
Your Rights as a Parent
- Access quality early childhood education programs
- Receive support for children with special needs
- Engage with programs that involve family participation
- Advocate for improvements in child care services
To Advocate Effectively
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on eligibility and program offerings
- Engage with Providers: Participate in parent committees and meetings
- Utilize Resources: Access available support services and training opportunities
- Communicate Needs: Share your child's specific needs with providers to ensure appropriate accommodations
🗣️ Your Voice Matters
Don't hesitate to speak up about your child's needs or concerns about their care. Child care providers want to work with families to ensure the best outcomes for children.
Child Care Assistance Programs in Ohio
Finding a Child Care Provider:
Ohio has a multitude of child care assistance programs. Use childcaresearch.ohio.gov to find eligible providers. Some programs include:
💼 Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)
What It Is: Helps eligible families cover part of their child care costs while working or attending school. Eligibility is based on income and household size.
- Online: www.benefits.ohio.gov
- In Person: Apply at a local Neighborhood Family Service Center
- Reapplication: Reapply annually; a re-determination packet is sent 45 days before benefits expire.
🎓 Head Start & Early Head Start
What It Is: Federally funded programs promoting school readiness for children from birth to age 5. Services include: early learning, health services, and family well-being support.
- Find your local Head Start Program
- Apply based on their respective instructions.
Cuyahoga County Specific Child Care Assistance
Local Head Start Providers
👶 Step Forward
Programs: Early Head Start and Head Start for children 6 weeks to 5 years old
Phone: (216) 589-9922
Website: Step Forward Head Start
⛪ Catholic Charities Diocese
Programs: Head Start and Early Head Start for children 6 weeks to 5 years old
Phone: (216) 334-2945
Website: Catholic Charities Early Learning
🧩 Support for Children with Special Needs
Prevention and Inclusion Programs (PiPs)Formerly known as the Special Needs Child Care System, PiPs assists children with developmental, health, physical, social-emotional, or behavioral challenges. The program collaborates with child care providers to create positive learning environments with individualized support.
How to Get Involved:
Call Starting Point for assistance: (216) 575-0061
🌟 Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) Program
Cuyahoga County's UPK program, administered by Invest in Children, provides high-quality preschool education to children aged 3 to 5, ensuring every child has access to a nurturing environment that prepares them for kindergarten.
How to Get Involved:
- Locate a UPK provider near you
- Call Starting Point for assistance: (216) 575-0061
- Discuss scholarship opportunities with your chosen UPK provider