The Mary Poppins of today does not show up with an umbrella and a spoon full of sugar but she does still exist. For some parents, it is the nanny they have found on their own or through an agency. For others, it may be a special daycare or learning center that becomes your child's home away from home. Every family is different and it is important to do your research early and find what is most comfortable for you and your child. There are many different philosophies and approaches to childcare, and you need to find the one that meshes with your family.

Childcare Resource & Referral

Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) is a statewide program in Arizona that helps families find child care. CCR&R also provides training and resources for child care providers and information for the community. This program is funded by the Department of Economic Security, Child Care Administration. The CCR&R phone service is available Monday through Friday 8:00am- 5:00 pm and our website search is always available. Services are provided at no charge.

For Families CCR&R provides:

• A list of child care options based on the expressed needs of the family
• Information about rates, policies, vacancies, licensing standards and other information about child care
• Guidelines on what to look for in quality child care
• Information about assistance paying for child care

Paying for Childcare

(Provided by CCR&R)

Child care costs are a major expense for most families. Quality care for infants and toddlers is particularly expensive because group sizes must be small.

Surprisingly, although costs are high, many times child care providers are not earning much more than minimum wage.

Reasons why child care can be so expensive include the following:

• High ratios of adults to children in programs for infants and toddlers
• Qualifications of the provider or teachers
• Geographic location 
• Insurance costs 
• Appropriate equipment 
• Nutritious food 
• Type of program 
• Cost of space (rent, utilities, etc.)

Generally speaking, hiring an in-home caregiver tends to be the most expensive form of care, followed by child care centers and family child care homes. Cost of school age programs and camps varies according to the type of program.

WEST VALLEY CHILDCARE OPTIONS

For more options for childcare and preschools in the West Valley, check out our Resource Category & Classifieds!

West Valley Hospital

West Valley Hospital, an affiliate of Abrazo Health Care, is a 164-bed, acute care community hospital located in Goodyear, Arizona. From state-of-the-art obstetrics and a full-service emergency department, to medical and surgical services, cardiovascular and intensive care, West Valley Hospital is dedicated to meeting the greatest needs in our communities by providing the most comprehensive healthcare available. With exceptional people providing exceptional patient care, West Valley Hospital is fully accredited by the Joint Commission.

Hospital Main Number: (623) 882-1500

Emergency Department: (623) 882-1640

Labor and Delivery: (623) 882-1900

Physician Referral Line: (888) 669-3444

Labor and Delivery at West Valley Hospital:

West Valley Hospital's obstetric services are designed to meet the highest expectations and provide the best experience for mom and baby. From birthing tours and classes for new moms and dads-to-be, repeat parents, infant care and breastfeeding, to private rooms and a Level TWO nursery that provides care for babies born at thirty-two weeks gestation or greater, West Valley Hospital is dedicated to ensuring the entire childbirth process is comfortable, safe and secure. To schedule a birthing tour or register for one of our free childbirth classes, please call 1-888-669-3444.