In addition, the School Age Child Care Project of the Wellesley College Center for Research on Women and Project Home Safe located in the Federal Organizations section of this publication can provide you with booklets and other information on finding school age care for your child. Vacation and Summer Programs. Vacation and summer programs are usually for school age children, although in some areas they are also available for preschool children. These programs provide a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, drama, and organized sports. When would a family come and see you A family would see me or another child life specialist when visiting the hospital on any unit, whether in patient, outpatient. The Handbook Of Child Life Pdf' title='The Handbook Of Child Life Pdf' />Vacation or summer programs are often operated by the local parks and recreation departments, community organizations, and child care centers. Sick ChildBack UpEmergency Care. All children get sick from time to time. Most child care centers have policies about sick children and very few allow children with contagious diseases to attend. Some day care centers set aside space to care for mildly ill children. These centers usually have a nurse on staff or on call. The need for such sick child day care centers has produced many centers opened around the country. To find out if there is a center in your area, contact the National Association of Sick Child Day Care Centers, 2. Caregivers also can get sick. Child care centers generally make arrangements for substitutes when a caregiver is ill however, if you choose a child care home, you will need to ask if the caregiver has plans for someone to care for your child when the caregiver is sick. It is a good idea to plan for back up care. When looking for back up care, you may want to consider child care centers and homes, neighbors, close friends, or local college students. Discuss your needs for back up care with potential providers beforehand to be sure they will be available when you need them. It is a good idea to complete the necessary documents and decide on any fees before you need the back up care. Part day Preschool Programs and Nursery Schools. Part day preschool programs and nursery schools are group child care programs which operate less than a full day. These programs are located in a variety of settings, including churches, public schools, and child care centers. State licensing regulations may be different for programs operating less than a full day schedule. This type of care, generally for children two and a half to five years of age, provides an opportunity for interaction with other children of similar ages. These programs usually follow the same academic year and holiday schedules as the public schools. Programs for Children with Special Needs. Finding child care for children with disabilities can be especially challenging for parents.