As the Child Care and Resource Referral Agency for Essex County, Programs for Parents (PfP) offers resources, professional skills and experience to develop and implement an ever-growing range of services to meet the needs of families in our community.

Financial Assistance

Many parents, guardians and foster parents qualify for financial assistance (subsidies) to cover all or part of their child care costs. Care may be selected in licensed child care centers, registered family child care homes and approved homes. In most cases, parents make a copayment, a fee based on income and family size. Click here for more information

Child Care Referral and Counseling

Selecting child care is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. Guided by PfP’s professional child care counselors, parents are introduced to child care options that meet their specific needs. Ideally it is a decision that nurtures the child and supports the parent’s work schedule. Parents are instructed how to view each facility and are given a checklist to help them evaluate program features. Click here for more information

Parenting Classes and Educational Resources

Parents face multiple challenges today that may inhibit their ability to meet their responsibilities and to raise and support their children. The goal of our parent education department is to reinforce parental practices which promote development and provide alternatives to harmful or non-productive practices. Parent education and support programming assumes that parents are more likely to provide appropriate nurturing and guidance as they acquire a greater understanding of child development and children’s needs. All parents need support from family, friends and community agencies. We’re here to help. Click here for more information

Services for Military Families

Operation Child Care is a program to help military families with their child care needs.  If you would like more information on how to assist as a registered provider on Operation Child Care, or are a military service member in search of more information call 973.744.4050 or visit www.childcareaware.org.

Advocacy and Public Policy Resources

As an advocate you can influence public policies and encourage positive programming that support children in a variety of ways.  This is done by contacting legislators, joining advocacy groups or educating yourself and your peers about relevant issues.  To find out more click here.