July 11, 2002

Child Care Resource and Referral Organizations Are There To Help

Choosing the right child care is one of the most important decisions families make, but all too often they must rely on word-of-mouth. According to Debra Pankow, North Dakota State University Extension Service family economic specialist, Local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) organizations help parents take the guesswork out of choosing care-givers giving them referrals to local child care providers, information on state licensing requirements, availability of child care subsidies, and other pertinent information.

Child Care Resource and Referral’s strive to enhance the quality, affordability and availability of child care. They assist parents in locating child care and preschool programs that best meet family needs. They customize lists that match a family’s specific needs with referrals for family child care homes, centers, and school-age child care programs. CCR&R’s provide consulting and assistance in evaluating and choosing appropriate child care and offer information about licensing regulations, child care consumer resources and interviewing tips to parents.

In most communities, demand for child care exceeds the amount of child care providers. CCR&R’s provide an entry point to the child care field, helping providers meet licensing requirements. CCR&R, also support providers by offering low-cost or free training in diverse topics like health and safety, child development, and sound business practices.

"No one has a greater impact than those who live and work with children every day," Pankow says. "CCR&R’s across the country provide ongoing professional development opportunities to child care providers and staff."

"High quality child care has many benefits, including preparing children for school. CCR&R’s strive to create child care settings that help children grow and learn. Educating parents about early learning and the components of quality care is also major part of CCR&R services. They are your local experts in child care and provide parents with many services, including referrals to child care providers."

Parents can call these numbers to get further information on child care services at the following.

• Bismarck area......................1-888-223-1510
• Devils Lake.........................701-662-6589
• Dickinson area....................1-800-359-2243, (701) 227-0131
• Fargo/Moorhead area..........1-800-452-3646, (218) 299-7001
• Grand Forks area.................1-800-543-7382, (701) 772-7905
• Jamestown...........................701- 252-0350
• Minot area...........................1-800-450-7801, (701) 838-7800
• Williston..............................701- 774-0749

For more information on CCR&R’s, contact you local extension agent or contact Debra Pankow at 701-231-8593.

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