In Texas, children age 6 and older are required to attend school. Children below that age are typically:

1. Cared for at home by a parent or relative
2. Cared for at home by a “nanny” who is paid for those services
3. Cared for at a childcare facility where the parents usually pay weekly or monthly for services.

Recommendations for services can also be obtained from church leaders, colleagues, and friends.

Childcare facilities are either home-based (provider cares for children out of his/her home) or center-based (care is provided in a school setting). There are many childcare facilities in the city. Some churches offer childcare programs as well as family neighborhood/recreation facilities such as the YMCA or Neighborhood Centers. There is also a wide variety of corporate and private for-profit childcare facilities. The cost of services varies greatly and a waitlist may exist. Listings can be found in the telephone book or through recommendations of colleagues/friends. Also, Collaborative for Children provides a vast resource of providers throughout Texas. Many local public schools offer preschool programs (beginning at 3 years of age) for qualified families. Information for these programs can be obtained through the local Independent School District.

The University of Houston Child Learning Center (CLC): This facility provides care for children ages 3 months – 5 years. The CLC mission is to provide exemplary childcare, for the children of students, staff, and faculty at the University of Houston, by offering a model program tailored to ensure the quality of a child's daily experiences. The hours of operation are 7:30am – 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks are provided. For more information about the Center and to obtain a Waitlist Application form, visit here or call 713-743-5489.