School-age care and camps
These programs may care for children up to 13 years old. They offer before and after school care, vacation programs, and summer camps. They also provide care when school is closed, like during summer, holidays, or school breaks.
Here are some things to know about most school-age care and camps:
- usually care for children up to 13 years old
- includes before and after school care, vacation programs, summer camps
- Health and Human Services Commission Child Care Regulation (HHSC CCR) makes sure they follow health and safety rules
- offer care when school is closed (during summer or holidays)
These descriptions give a general idea of each type of child care, but programs can be different. Families should contact providers directly to learn the details and see if the care fits their child’s needs.
Learn about other types of child care
A child care center is a place where many kids are cared for by trained adults. They usually have classrooms and take care of children of different ages. Children are usually separated by age groups.
Home-based child care is when a caregiver takes care of a group of children in their home. They are more of a family setting and take care of children of different ages. Siblings may be together rather than separated by age.
Public prekindergarten (Pre-k) is a free program for eligible children ages 3 to 5 (where it’s offered). It is available through the public school system. Pre-k helps kids get ready for school by learning important skills.
Early Head Start helps children from birth to 3 years old, and pregnant women. Head Start helps children ages 3 to 5. Both programs offer free services and child development support for families who qualify.
Military families can use regular child care programs, and they may also qualify for special programs made just for them. These programs can help with finding care and may lower the cost.
Relative child care is when a relative family member takes care of a child, usually in their own home but sometimes in the child’s home. Only certain relatives can provide this care. The relative must pass background checks, have their home inspected, and be listed with HHSC CCR.