In partnership with the YMCA, Dallas College is pleased to announce free drop-in child care at its
Downtown Health Sciences Center in the Paramount Building. The historic building is only a block away from main
buildings of Dallas College El Centro Campus.
Known as the Child Watch Program, space is available to the children of eligible Dallas College students on a
first-come, first-served basis each day.
Program Benefits
When your children are in the Child Watch program, you have the freedom to use
that time as you see fit. You might:
Meet with classmates for class projects or study groups.
Visit the Learning Commons for tutoring.
Sign up for additional college classes (and graduate sooner).
Child Watch Program Services
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Service Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 a.m.-Noon; 1-5 p.m.; 6-9 p.m
Eligible families can receive the following services free of charge:
- Children ages 3-12 may be dropped off for up to 4 hours at one time.
- Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis each day.
- 20 spots available for each 4-hour time slot.
- Daily activities provided.
What to Expect
Potty Training Requirements
- To ensure the best experience for all children, it is preferred that children attending Child
Watch be potty trained. However, this is not a requirement. Parents of children who are not yet
potty trained should remain accessible by phone during their child's time in Child Watch, as we
may need to contact them for a diaper change. For safety and hygiene reasons, Child Watch staff
are unable to assist with diaper changes.
Professor Communications
- It’s important to communicate with your professor about any requests or concerns related
to being a student parent. For example, you might send a message like this: ”I wanted to
inform you that my child(ren) are enrolled in the college's drop-in child care program. As a
result, I need to keep my phone with me during class so I can remain accessible in case of any
safety concerns or emergencies.”
Space Limitations
- Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis each semester. Please register in advance
once you know your class schedule.