Parents Connecting Parents

Are you a parent of young children — or expecting to be one soon? Are you looking for child care or other kinds of support for your family? Parents Connecting Parents may be able to help.

This new program from the Office of Early Childhood (OEC) has launched in 6 Connecticut communities: Bridgeport, Hartford, New Britain, New Haven, New London, and Waterbury. We’re sending out Parent Ambassadors — real parents — into these areas who understand the challenges of parenting and can connect you with the support you need.

While this program is only available in those 6 communities now, we hope to bring it to more areas soon! Learn more about Parents Connecting Parents.

Get support

Connect with these Office of Early Childhood programs and resources.

Access to child care

Connecticut has many early care and education, preschool, and pre-kindergarten programs. These programs help children grow and learn while parents are able to work.

Find child care programs on the 2-1-1 Child care site.

Help paying for child care

Care 4 Kids helps working families with low incomes pay for child care. Get financial help for the child care you choose.

Find out if you’re eligible for Care 4 Kids.

Help with developmental delays

Are you concerned about your child’s development? Do they have a serious delay — like with talking or taking their first steps? Birth to Three can help.

Fill out a referral form to apply for Birth to Three services.

Parenting support in your own home

OEC’s home visiting programs provide services for children and families — right in their own homes.

Use our interactive map to find a home visiting program in your area.

Free tools and resources to support your child’s growth and development

Help Me Grow can connect you to community services and resources for child health, behavior, growth, and learning. Sparkler is a free mobile app for Connecticut families. Use it to track your child’s progress as they grow.

Download the Sparkler app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.