Dependent Care Resources for Graduate Students

The University of Delaware understands that locating child and/or elder care for dependents can be challenging and time-consuming. If you are a graduate student or postdoc who is planning a family, you may find our Graduate Student Parental Leave Trail Guide helpful in planning your family and your return to graduate student life. The following list of community information has been compiled to assist you in this effort:

The UD Classifieds can be used by UD community members to post or find job listings for child care, tutoring, or elder care needs. This service is a privilege extended to students and employees of the University of Delaware for personal, non-commercial use. The terms of any transactions are between the buyer and seller.

UD supports several on-campus child care centers that are affiliated with the College of Education and Human Development. Contact each provider for current hours of operation.

The Early Learning Center (ELC)

The ELC offers full-day infant, toddler, pre-school and pre-K programs for children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age. These ELC programs run on a 12-month calendar, with the center open from 7 a.m.-6 p.m.  The ELC offers before and after school care for children in grades K-3 at Newark Charter, ASPIRA Academy and West Park Place Elementary schools. Summer camp is also available for children who have completed Kindergarten through third grade.

The Laboratory Preschool

The Lab School serves the University of Delaware as a model of inclusive early childhood education addressing the needs and strengths of varied populations. Children aged 6 months–6 years and their families are welcomed into developmentally supportive part-time and full-time programs that range from infants to kindergarten. The Lab School programs run on a 9-month calendar (September-May), with optional summer camp programs for children ages 3 to 6.

The College School

The College School offers students in grades 1-8 a rigorous and engaging curriculum, unique to a University setting. While some of the student population presents with mild learning challenges that may impact school success, all benefit from a supportive environment that promotes confidence, discovery and self-advocacy. The College School has a rolling admissions policy and, based on availability, will accept students throughout the school year.

Summer Camps

Mark your calendars for the UD Community Summer Camp resource which is updated yearly in March. Young citizens of our community can enrich their summers through a wide variety of experiences offered at camps scheduled at the University of Delaware. The camps cover a wide variety of topics and are sponsored by both the University of Delaware and independent operators. Please note, the camps fill quickly so early registration is recommended.  Please review updates to individual camps on the website.

* These programs are in-demand and generally have waiting lists.

For those looking for child care options outside of UD, there are several referral services available. These services can help you locate a range of child care options in the local community, including home-based child care, center-based child care, and caregivers such as nannies.

Health Advocate Child Care Search

From an in-home nanny for your infant, to daycare for your toddler or a sitter for your pre-teen, finding reliable, trustworthy child care can be taxing. Use our child care locators to discover what qualified services are available near you.

Children & Families First of Delaware

For more than 135 years, Children & Families First has met the shifting needs of Delaware's children and their families. We use proven methods to prevent, intervene, and heal childhood adversity - helping families raise their children so they can flourish.

Maryland Family Network

The first five years last forever. That’s why the decisions you make about early care and education are crucial. Maryland Family Network is here to help parents and caregivers with our LOCATE: Child Care referral service along with advice and support to help you navigate your child’s first five years.

Compass-State of Pennsylvania

You have options when it comes to the care for your child. Whether you need child care or another early learning programs, you can find it here.

Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center

The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is your one-stop access point for aging and disability information and resources in Delaware. For a guide to services or more information or help, contact the Delaware ADRC.

This information was originally collected by HR and has been modified.