February 11, 2000

Another snow day? Don't forget the MGH Backup Child Care Center

This time of year, MGH employees and patients are faced with the unpredictable New England weather, which often leaves the Boston area blanketed with snow. When the radio stations announce school cancellations, MGH parents frequently experience a scheduling dilemma. Work cannot be put on hold, and last-minute child care is not easy to find. Fortunately, the MGH provides quality care for these emergencies. The MGH Backup Child Care Center offers care not only for children of employees and staff, but also for children of patients and all Partners employees.

There is never a shortage of special attention at the Backup Child Care Center.  At left, Billy Fallon enjoys a moment with Rachel Stoler, one of the certified teachers at the center.

The MGH Backup Child Care Center, located in the Warren Lobby, was established to help families who need temporary child care. The primary focus of the center is to provide a secure play space for children age 15 months to 12 years. The center offers a pre-planned curriculum, including music and art lessons, and features an indoor climbing wall and sandpit, computers equipped with software for all ages and an outdoor play yard. The center maintains 10 certified teachers who follow curriculum guidelines established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Two childlife specialists also are on staff, providing additional social and emotional expertise.

"The goal of the center is to make it a place where children feel safe, as if they were in their own home," says Mary Zenk, director of the center. "They are given the opportunity to work with the teachers on homework or projects, as well as plenty of time to use their imaginations and even make new friends. Parents can be confident about our services, and they know that their children are receiving responsible care and attention."

Among the more popular activities sponsored by the center are the vacation camps. These camps are scheduled during the February and April school vacations with planned events and outings specifically arranged for vacation week. Some of the activities planned for the upcoming camp — Feb. 22 to 25 — include a trip to the Museum of Science, a tour of the Boston Fire Department and entertainment by Discovery Theater, which gives children an opportunity to participate in improvisational and dramatic play. The winter camp is open to 20 school-age children.

Employees and patients who are interested in using any of the center's services must preregister before their need for care arises.

"We would like to remind MGHers that this service is available," says Zenk. "This is a place where both parent and child can feel taken care of."

The center is open Monday through Friday, 6:30 am to 6 pm. For more information about the MGH Backup Child Care Center or about the vacation camps, call 4-7100.