Can I apply for child care if my child is not born yet?
Yes, you can apply as soon as you are pregnant and have a due date.
Do you accept applications from FSU staff and faculty?
Yes. The application process is the same for students, faculty and staff.
Do you accept applications from parents who are not affiliated with FSU?
Yes. The wait for a space is typically much longer for Alumni and Community members since FSU students, faculty and staff take priority for any space that becomes available.
Am I eligible for the student status if I am enrolled at another college?
No, only FSU students are eligible for the student status and thus the student tuition rate.
How do I enroll my child?
The first step is to fill out the application completely and submit it to us. Once your fully completed application is received in our office, your child is then placed on a waiting list. When a space becomes available for which your child is eligible you will receive an e–mail notification about the opening and procedures for accepting a space.
How long does my application stay on file?
The waiting list is updated in May of each year. An e–mail is sent to all parents who have a child on the waiting list. Unless we receive a confirming response (that is, the parent tells us that they do want to stay on the waiting list), the child is removed. It is important for parents to make sure that our records reflect a valid and current e–mail address so that there are no upsets because we did not get a confirming response or have an in–valid e–mail address.
Do you have part–time spaces?
No. We have only full–time spaces.
Are you open during semester breaks?
The center operates on the Universities schedule and is open when classes are in session. The center does offer 1 week of Semester Break Care (for an addition fee) between Spring and Summer Semester, and the week following the Summer and Fall semesters. Semester Break Care requires pre-registration.
What hours are you open?
The centers are open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. when FSU Classes are in session.
Can I tour the center before my child enrolls?
Yes. We encourage you and your child to visit the center before the first day. Contact the director of the center that your child will be enrolled to arrange a mutually convenient time. The tours usually take about one–half hour.
Do you provide food for the children who are enrolled?
Yes. The children are provided with a breakfast, a hot lunch, and an afternoon snack.
Can I visit my enrolled child during operating hours?
Yes. We encourage parent involvement in the activities of the center.
What is your policy about sick children?
If children get sick while attending the center, parents are called to pick up their children so that they can be cared for at home. We do not have the capability or facilities to care for sick children.
What is the ratio of teachers to children?
Since our center is accredited by NAEYC, we follow their guidelines.
- Infants – no more than 8 children in a group, with 2 teaching staff
- Toddlers – no more than 12 children in a group, with 2 teaching staff
- 4-5 year-olds – no more than 20 children in a group, with 2 teaching staff
If I want to withdraw my child, how much notice must I give?
A thirty day notice is required.
Can you accommodate my child if they do not speak English?
Yes. FSU Childcare & Early Learning Programs has a long history of welcoming children whose first language is not English.
Do you offer a VPK program?
No. Parents wishing to enroll their child in a VPK program in Leon County should contact the Early Learning Coalition of the Bing Bend.
