Caring for Children

Young child smiling at a child care center
Child Care @ Harvard logo

We understand that finding reliable caregivers is critical to working parents. The University is committed to providing you with access to a wide array of childcare resources. Whether you are a new parent or new to Harvard, we encourage you to explore your options which include:

  • Seven on-campus childcare centers
  • Resources for finding group care and in-home care in your community
  • Back-up care resources
  • Information on schools and after-school programs
  • Camps and school vacation programs
  • New parent resources to help you transition to parenthood and back to work
  • Ways to connect with other parents in the community

Only you know what childcare arrangement will be right for your family. We encourage you to review these and other available resources and to carefully consider the safety and appropriateness of any childcare provider or setting. To learn more about group childcare and how to find a nanny, a babysitter, or back-up childcare, visit Finding Child Care.

Prospective or current faculty members can also find more information about childcare resources and other supports for work-life balance at the Office for the Senior Vice Provost for Faculty.

Due to strict state regulations designed to ensure quality and safety, affordable childcare can be in short supply in the greater Boston area, depending on the age of your child. You can increase your odds for securing the type of childcare that works best for your family by starting early and keeping your options open.