Childcare Resources

SPS provides current listings of childcare providers, as well as consumer education, and individual consultation to assist parents in their search and selection of childcare. The program helps parents discern their concerns regarding child and family issues and locate child and family resources in the community that can help. SPS offers support groups, parenting workshops, and forums on child and family issues.

Choosing a Child Care Provider

There are several important steps in choosing a childcare setting that best meets your child’s needs. Here are some suggestions to get you started in your selection of an appropriate childcare setting for your child:

1. READ the lists of centers, group homes, and/or family childcare providers provided by SPS and available on the web. Read through consumer education materials. There are several books that may also help that are available through the SPS Lending Library or local bookstores.
   
   
2. CONTACT the providers. Make a list of questions that addresses your concerns about childcare arrangements. Make copies of the list for each provider you contact. Review the information. Make arrangements to visit and interview the provider you select from your screening process.
   
   
3. VISIT the providers. Carry with you an observation checklist and a second set of questions for providers and teachers. Inspect the area for safety, cleanliness, and adequate space. Observe the program and providers/teachers. Watch/listen to the activities. Watch/listen to the children.
   
   
4. ASK the providers for a list of references or list of parents that have participated in their program. Make a list of questions to ask these parents regarding their experience with the childcare provider.
   
   
5. SELECT the childcare setting that best meets your child’s needs. Review all your notes. Visit the program a second time if necessary. Only you can determine whether a provider meets your needs. Take the time to make the best childcare choice – your child is worth it!

SPS also provides consumer education materials about childcare and offers individual consultation.

Child Care Provider Lists

Disclaimer

These links will take you to other sites not maintained by Portland State University or Student Parent Services. Portland State University does not warrant any information regarding any childcare provider, nor do they investigate, endorse, recommend, or choose any provider. The inclusion of any provider’s name does not constitute endorsement or certification by Portland State University as to their qualifications. Any complaints or problems should be directed to the provider or to the State of Oregon Childcare Division (1-800-556-6616).

Find providers in Oregon here.

Find providers in Washington here.

For other informal childcare options provided by students, for students, come see our bulletin board in our office for a list of students wanting to do childcare swapping.

SPS also offers two childcare financial assistance programs that assist low-income and/or Pell Grant receiving student parents. The Jim Sells Childcare Assistance Program helps pay a small percentage towards off-campus childcare. The other program is the CAMPIS Grant, which helps pay a small percentage towards on-campus childcare. Come in or call to see if you qualify for one of these programs.

The Ron Ronacher Student Parent Emergency Loan Program, which is for student parents who are confronted with unforeseen financial crises, is a small loan ($50) that is available once a term, and can be used to help pay for childcare. See our Financial Assistance page for more information.

On a statewide level, parents can apply for the Oregon Student Child Care Grant. Parents who are eligible for TANF benefits can also apply to be a part of the Parents as Scholars program.

Paying for Childcare

SPS also offers childcare financial assistance to low-income student parents who use off-campus childcare and an emergency loan program for student parents who are confronted with unforeseen financial crises. See our Financial Assistance page for more information.

On a statewide level, parents can apply for the Oregon Student Child Care Grant. Parents who are eligible for TANF benefits can also apply to be a part of the Parents as Scholars program.