This document provides information about applying for and maintaining Title XX childcare benefits in Nebraska. It outlines the application process which involves completing an eligibility assessment online and providing documentation. Once approved, applicants can search for a licensed childcare provider using the state's online roster and referral services. The document offers tips for selecting a quality provider by visiting options, observing ratios and interactions, and checking for regulatory issues. It also discusses after-school program resources.

2. ∙Finding and Choosing Quality Childcare ∙After-School Programs for Children

3. You Will Learn… How to apply for and renew Title XX benefits – requirements for maintaining, and other related policies How to locate and review child care providers and track licensure status What to expect of a quality childcare provider and when to avoid a childcare provider After-School Options for children

4. What is Title XX? Federally funded child care subsidy, administered to states for distribution to citizens in need (via DHHS). Subsidy amount is based on economic need, income, and an individual’s hours doing work-related activities

5. Some Background… Nebraska Dept. of Health and Human Services Regulates all licensed childcare providers in the State of Nebraska. Subjects providers to annual review with requirements to meet minimal standards. Reviews your assets to determine your eligibility for Title XX, and administers your childcare vouchers to the provider.

6. To Apply for Title XX Child Care Subsidy Go to Access Nebraska (www.accessnebraska.ne.gov) Take an eligibility assessment; apply Make sure to have all income statements, ID numbers, & bank accounts handy when completing this information

7. How to Apply for Title XX Child Care Subsidy An intake worker from DHHS should contact you by phone within a week from the time you applied for benefits. If you do not hear from a worker within that timeframe, contact 402-595-3400. Whenever there is a change in your income, expenses, or schedule, you will need to return to Access Nebraska to update your information electronically (30-60 days in advance w/caveat). Once you are approved, your next step is to find a quality childcare provider you can trust.

8. How to Find a Childcare Provider Visit the NDHHS child care roster http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/chc/chcindex.htm Click on “search for a child care provider” In the small text box up top, put in the zip code for the area where you are trying to locate the childcare This page also provides information on how to select a quality childcare provider; tells which provider’s licenses are on good record, and who has violated their license.

9. Child Care Resource and Referral 1-800-89-CHILD or 1-800-892-4453 Database of licensed child care providers Get information from you to determine your needs Different providers will be referred to you based upon your child care needs (Gives more direct assistance, less DIY).

10. Determining Quality Child Care Against the Options Kristen Lundquist Spellman Child Development Center

11. A Step-by-Step on How to Select Quality Child Care Visit the Nebraska Child Care Roster of Licensed Providers or contact the Child Care Resource and Referral Hotline

12. A Step-by-Step on How to Select Quality Child Care Visit at least THREE different centers of those referred: Call in advance to make an appointment Introduce yourself as someone looking for care (this will help you quickly find out if there are openings) Find a checklist online of things to look for (http://www.extension.iastate.edu/publications/pm1805.pdf)

13. A Step-by-Step on How to Select Quality Child Care During your tour, LOOK, LISTEN, & COUNT: Look to see that the center/home is clean and organized, dangerous objects are kept out of reach, an outside area to play is present, and equipment and toys are in good repair Listen for the sound of happy, engaged children, cheerful teachers/staff. Too noisy? Too quiet? Count the ratio of adults to kids. Will your child get the one-on-one attention s/he requires? TAKE NOTES FOR LATER REVIEW!

14. Quality Childcare vs. Trouble Center Quality Childcare Head Start Video What evidence indicates this is a quality child care facility? Trouble Center Monster Day Care What do you see that could be problematic? With both examples, consider the suggestions to Look, Listen, & Count

15. A Step-by-Step on How to Select Quality Child Care The Interview You are the hiring manager. Nothing is off limits: Education? Experience? What is a typical day like? What are the parent policies? Who else works in the home/center?

16. A Step-by-Step on How to Select Quality Child Care Before making a final selection, check the NDHHS website “Child Care in Nebraska” (see previous slide #7) Does your potential provider have any documented negative actions? Was this discussed at the interview? Weigh out your values and options to decide.

17. After-School Programs for Children Start by visiting the Greater Omaha After School Alliance http://www.omahaafterschool.org/ You may also contact: Barb Farho After School Initiatives Director Office of the Mayor Omaha/Douglas Civic Center 1819 Farnam St., Suite 300 Omaha, NE 68183-0300 (402) 444-5151 bfarho@ci.omaha.ne.us

18. Resources/Sources Head Start Locator(http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/HeadStartOffices) National Association for Education of Young Children (http://www.naeyc.org/) www.familycareresources.org Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (dhhs.ne.gov) Kid Squad (http://www.kid-squad.com/) 402-504-3637