Child Development
Nurturing Those Special To You
This child-oriented indoor and outdoor facility provides developmental care and learning experiences for children ages six weeks through 5 years of age. A waiting list is maintained for full-day care. The center has a referral list for Family Child Care homes operating in military family housing and those affiliated homes off base.
Philosophy
The Dover Air Force Base Child Development Center is committed to providing developmentally appropriate child care for the children of military members and civilian employees. This care includes meeting the emotional, social, cognitive and physical need of the children in a safe and secure environment. To ensure that children's needs are met, the center staff plans a variety of learning activities that encourage growth in each of the developmental areas. These activities revolve around learning through play. Parents are invited to actively participate in the child development program. The CDC staff members are committed to quality child care. They are continually trained in current developmentally appropriate practices. The overall goal of the Dover Air Force Base Child Development Program is to provide quality care for dependents of military members and base civilian employees. In order for this to happen, staff members and parents need to work together. The results of this cooperative effort will be children who are independent and well balanced, parents who are reassured in their child's well being, and staff members who are proud participants in the program.
Care Options
Weekly Care
A contract for weekly child care provides a guaranteed daily slot for child care. Fees are due on the first or second operating day each week.
If a slot is not available, your name can be put on a waiting list and you will be contacted when a slot is available. Assistance will be provided in locating affordable alternate care.
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Hourly Care
Hourly care is provided on a reservation basis for children ages 6 months through 5 years. Children brought in on a "walk-in" basis will be accepted if space and staff are available.
A minimum of two (2) hours will be charged for all hourly visits, with a 5 minute grace period given before the next half-hour is charged. Payments are to be made on a daily basis when the child is picked up. There is no carry-over of charges.
Reservations for hourly care can be made starting at 6:30 am on the Friday prior to the week care is needed.