Child Care Options

Parents & Families

If you are looking for child care, you’ve come to the right place. There are lots of child care options available. BANANAS is here to guide you toward the best fit for your family.

Family Child Care Homes: Large and Small

These state-regulated child cares operate in a provider’s home. Some function like nursery school programs while others welcome children into a home as part of the family. Family child care providers are not required to have any formal education. They are mandated to take 16 hours of health and safety training, which is divided into 8 hours of CPR and First Aid and 8 hours of Preventive Health Education. Providers need fingerprint clearance and a TB test.

Small family child care homes provide care to no more than 8 children. Large family child care homes provide care to no more than 14 children and both are required to hire a full-time assistant.

Child Care Centers: Nursery Schools and Preschools

These state-licensed programs vary greatly. They all operate in non-home settings and the majority of them include a curriculum and are staffed by individuals with backgrounds in early childhood development. Many centers accept children once they have been toilet-trained, but there are a growing number of centers that offer care for infants and toddlers.

In-Home Caregivers: Nannies and Babysitters

    This type of child care is offered by providers who care for the children in the family’s home. Nannies tend to care for very young children, working multiple days a week, and ongoing until the transition into kindergarten. In some instances, a nanny may live in a family’s home for room and board plus a salary.

    In-home caregivers are not regulated or licensed by the state. Parents are encouraged to check for background screenings by calling TrustLine at 800-822-8490 or going to www.trustline.org.

    Shares

    These child care arrangements are set up by two or more families who jointly hire a caregiver to work in their homes. This tends to be less expensive than a single family hiring an in-home caregiver. Shares are not regulated or licensed by the state. Families are urged to follow the guidelines for hiring a nanny or babysitter.

    Supported and Parent Lead Playgroups

    Supported playgroups are coordinated and led by trained early childhood workers. They provide a structured and positive learning environment in which children can socialize, play and learn, and are a great way for parents to meet and share their experiences.

    Parent led playgroups are organized by multiple families and are a great way for children to socialize and offer parents an opportunity to regularly meet with other parents. Some allow parents to drop off their children. There is no set structure for these arrangements. Families decide on days, location, number and ages of children depending on what works for everyone. This can be low cost and is a way to build community.

    Free Virtual Playgroups, Educational Resources and Child Care Provider Support:

    Join us for free weekly playgroups held at BANANAS and out in the community to discover the many wonderful ways that play inspires learning. Playgroups offer grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, nannies, neighbors, friends, and parents a space to connect with one another and build community.
    To register for playgroups, please visit our Family Friends and Neighbor Services Page or contact Mikaela Chant. Se habla espanol.

    Mikaela Chant

    Mayra Morales

    mayra@bananasbunch.org
    Call: 510.658.7353 x.162

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