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Parenting comes with a lot of questions, and sometimes a lot of paperwork too. This page is here to make things simpler.
Whether you're checking vaccine requirements for school, looking for child care, trying to build healthier routines at home, or figuring out how to support your child emotionally, you'll find practical resources here to help.
Think of this as your go-to place for trusted information, family support, and next steps you can actually use.
Select a topic to learn more.
Vaccines help protect children, classrooms, child-care settings, and the wider community. In Connecticut, certain immunizations are required for children attending licensed child care programs and K–12 schools.
This section is here to make the process easier, so you know what's required, where to find your child's records, and what to do if you need to catch up.
Child Care & Preschool Requirements (Birth to Age 5)
Children in licensed child care centers, family child care homes, and preschool programs must follow Connecticut's age-based vaccine schedule. Vaccines commonly required include:
- DTaP
- Polio
- Hib
- Pneumococcal
- Hepatitis B
- MMR
- Varicella
- Annual flu vaccine for children ages 6 to 59 months
- Keep a digital copy of your child's immunization record.
- Update your records after each well visit.
- Ask your pediatrician if your child is due for any upcoming vaccines.
Kindergarten Requirements
Before starting kindergarten, families typically need to provide documentation for:
- 2 doses of MMR
- 2 doses of varicella, or a confirmed history of chickenpox
- At least 4 doses of DTaP
- 3 or more doses of polio
- Completion of the hepatitis B series
Schedule your child's well visit in late spring or early summer so forms are ready before back-to-school season.
Grades 1 through 12
Students must continue to meet Connecticut school immunization requirements throughout elementary, middle, and high school. Vaccines required include:
- MMR
- Varicella
- Hepatitis B
- Polio
- Tdap booster for Grade 7
- Meningococcal vaccine for Grade 7 and Grade 12
If Your Child Is Behind on Vaccines
The good news is that children can safely get back on track using a CDC-approved catch-up schedule.
- You should never restart a vaccine series.
- Your child's provider can create a catch-up plan.
- Schools can accept catch-up documentation when it follows CDC timing guidelines.
If you're unsure where your child stands, your pediatrician or school nurse can help.
For full details, families can visit:
Accessing Records Through CT WiZ
Connecticut uses CT Wiz, a secure statewide immunization system. Families can use it to:
- View vaccination history
- Download school and child-care forms
- Print immunization certificates
- Share records for camps, sports, and other programs
Documentation Tips for Families
To avoid registration delays:
- Bring a printed vaccine record to school registration
- Save a copy in your email or phone
- Notify the school nurse after each vaccine visit
- Submit forms early, especially when transferring schools.
- Ask your provider to sign official CT DPH forms if required by your district
Medical Exemptions (CT State Law)
- Only medical exemptions are allowed for school and child care.
- Exemptions must be signed by a licensed physician, PA, or APRN.
- Religious exemptions are not permitted for K–12 (CT Public Act 21-6).
When to Contact Your School Nurse
School nurses are trained experts in CT’s immunization laws and requirements. They can help if:
- You’re unsure if your child is up-to-date
- You need help understanding requirements
- You need forms for sports, camps, or after-school programs
- Your child is on a catch-up schedule
- You’re moving from another state or country
Search for Licensed Programs
The Connecticut Office of Early Childhood allows families to explore a range of child care options, including:
- Child care centers
- Family child care homes
- Group child care homes
- School readiness programs
- Before- and after-school programs
- NAEYC-accredited programs
Search tools can help narrow results by location, age group, hours, and program type.
What to Look for When Visiting a Program
- Clean, safe spaces
- Warm, responsive staff
- Daily routines and age-appropriate activities
- Clear family communication
- Posted child-to-teacher ratios and licensing information
Check a Program’s Licensing Status & Inspection History
OEC provides access to information that helps families make informed decisions, including:
- Whether the program is currently licensed and in good standing
- The program’s inspection results
- Any violations or enforcement actions
- Compliance with health and safety standards
This helps parents ensure the program meets Connecticut’s requirements for:
- Staff training
- Child-to-teacher ratios
- Health and safety practices
- Emergency planning
- Appropriate supervision
Common Types of Care in Connecticut
Child Care Centers
Larger programs offering full-day or part-day care for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
Family Child Care Homes
Licensed providers offering care in their own home. Often smaller, flexible, and family-focused.
School Readiness Programs
State-funded early childhood programs for 3–5-year-olds, typically located in community sites and schools.
Before & After School Programs
Care for school-aged children outside regular school hours.
Extra Support for Developmental Concerns
If you have questions about your child's development, Connecticut also offers helpful programs like:
- Birth23 for early intervention and developmental support
- Help Me Grow Connecticut, for referrals, guidance, and family support
Help Paying for Child Care
Some families may qualify for support through:
- Care 4 Kids
- School Readiness tuition assistance
- Head Start & Early Headstart Programs
- Community scholarships or sliding-scale programs
Supporting Families, Building Strong Futures
Finding the right child-care program gives your child the best start. Connecticut’s OEC tools and community supports are here to guide you every step of the way.
Good nutrition supports learning, energy, emotional regulation, and overall health. Connecticut families have access to many tools, programs, and resources that make healthy eating easier — even on a budget.
Building Healthy Plates at Home
Creating balanced meals doesn't have to be complicated. Use the MyPlate model as a simple guide:
- ½ plate fruits & vegetables
- ¼ plate whole grains
- ¼ plate lean protein
- + Dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese) if your child consumes dairy
- Offer a variety of colors ("eat the rainbow")
- Let kids help pick and prepare foods — they're more likely to try them
- Avoid pressuring kids to "clean their plate"
- Serve water as the main drink
Healthy Snack Ideas for Busy Families
Quick, nutritious options:
- Fresh fruit
- Yogurt with berries
- Whole-grain crackers & cheese
- Hummus & veggies
- Apple slices with peanut or almond butter
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Trail mix (nut-safe versions for schools)
Keep snacks easy, accessible, and appealing.
Help for Picky Eaters
It's normal for kids to cycle through picky phases. Try:
- Repeated exposure (10–15 tries!)
- Serving new foods with familiar favorites
- Making foods fun: shapes, dips, colors
- Modeling enjoyment ("Look how crunchy this pepper is!")
Avoid food battles — stay relaxed and consistent.
CT WIC – Women, Infants, and Children Program
WIC supports income-eligible families by providing:
- Monthly food benefits
- Formula and breastfeeding support
- Nutrition counseling
- Health screenings
- Farmer's Market vouchers
WIC improves nutrition, reduces food insecurity, and supports healthy growth.
School Meal Programs (CT)
Connecticut schools offer nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snack options aligned with federal nutrition standards.
- Balanced, portion-controlled meals
- Access for all families; many qualify for free or reduced meals
- Helps children focus, learn, and stay energized
Eating Well on a Budget
Tips for stretching grocery dollars:
- Buy frozen fruits and vegetables — same nutrition, lower cost
- Plan meals and make a list
- Choose whole grains in bulk
- Use beans, lentils, and eggs as affordable proteins
- Prep meals on weekends to avoid takeout
CT Resources
Food assistance for income-eligible Connecticut households.
Pantries and mobile markets across the state.
Local Community Food Banks
Main food pantry for Southington/Plantsville. Groceries, bread/produce availability, and other supports (energy assistance, referrals, social services).
Address: 91 Norton St, Plantsville. Phone: (860) 628-3761.
Drive-through pantry on 2nd & 4th Saturdays; mobile-produce distribution via Connecticut Foodshare on alternating Tuesdays. Open to many nearby towns (including Southington) — no proof of income required for produce pickups.
Offers free meals for community members: lunch Monday–Saturday at noon, dinner on Wednesdays (and to-go as needed). Good resource for immediate food/meal support.
A small, community-run "take what you need / give what you can" pantry — nonperishable foods, toiletry items, available to anyone at any time. Great option for small immediate needs.
Address: 145 Main St, Southington.
Food pantry, clothing assistance, emergency energy/utility aid, periodic "bread distribution," holiday food baskets, general support.
Monthly food distribution for Middlefield (and Rockfall) residents by appointment (call 860-349-7121).
For food, utility, housing, elder care, and other social-service needs. The town recommends calling 211 CT (or dialing 211) for food, housing, child care, and crisis support.
Connecticut Grown: Local Produce
Many towns host farmers markets, summer market coupons for seniors and WIC families, and CSA (community-supported agriculture) programs. Buying local increases freshness and supports community agriculture.
Weekly market — Southington Town Green.
Saturdays on the Meriden Green — close to Plainville/Southington.
Fridays 10 am–2 pm, Union Green (Main & Pleasant St.) — reachable from Middlefield.
Year-round farm market offering produce, meats, dairy, etc. — a good local food resource.
Farm-store in Middlefield with local produce, dairy, meats — convenient if you're in or near Middlefield.
Parent-Friendly Nutrition Tools
Build meals visually based on the USDA's food group model.
Kid-friendly, budget-friendly recipes sorted by course, food group, and cost.
Helps families scan items to confirm they're WIC-approved before checkout.
Free recipes, cooking videos, and shopping tips for SNAP-eligible families.
Food Is More Than Fuel
Meals are a chance for families to connect. Talk about your day, enjoy time together, and practice gratitude — healthy eating includes healthy relationships around food.
Children experience a wide range of emotions — excitement, worry, sadness, frustration, fear, joy — and sometimes their behavior speaks louder than their words.
You may notice:
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- More tears or outbursts
- Trouble concentrating
- Withdrawal or quietness
- Extra clinginess
- Worrying often
- Feeling overwhelmed by small things
These are not signs of "bad behavior." They're signals that your child needs support.
1. Create a Calm-Down Space
A cozy spot with soft items, coloring pages, sensory toys, or books helps kids reset when overwhelmed.
2. Build a Simple Daily Routine
Predictable mornings and bedtimes reduce anxiety. Visual schedules work great for young children.
3. Practice Kid-Friendly Breathing
- Smell the Flower, Blow the Candle
- Box Breathing (4-4-4-4)
- Belly Balloon Breaths
These help the body slow down and feel safe.
4. Use a Feelings Check-In
Ask: "How are you feeling right now?" Use emojis, magnets, or a feelings wheel to help them name emotions.
5. Model Your Own Calm
Kids mirror adult behavior. Taking your own deep breath shows them how to handle stress.
It's okay — and healthy — to ask for help. Consider reaching out if you notice:
- Big feelings lasting several weeks
- Worries that interfere with school or friendships
- Sadness that doesn't improve
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Avoiding activities they once enjoyed
- Saying negative things about themselves
- Behavior changes that concern you
Start with a pediatrician, school counselor, therapist, or trusted community resource. You're not alone — support is available.
Connecticut Resources
For children and teens experiencing behavioral or emotional crises.
For developmental questions, Birth to Three, Help Me Grow, and behavior support.
Youth programs, mental health referrals, family supports (search by town).
Varies by district — general resource explaining their role.
Helps families navigate behavioral health services and insurance.
Health guidance, development, prevention, and safety information.
National Resources
Evidence-based information on children's mental health and learning challenges.
Signs, supports, and guidance for caregivers.
National mental health and substance use resources.
Support understanding mental health conditions and accessing care.
24/7 crisis intervention and mental-health support for LGBTQ+ young people.
Call or text 988 — support for anyone in emotional distress.
You're Doing a Great Job
Parenting is challenging, and every child experiences big feelings. Your patience, encouragement, and presence make a powerful difference. Epi's World is here to help your family learn, grow, and build healthy habits together.
Raising a family takes support. Many parents experience challenges with food access, housing costs, utilities, transportation, or child care.
Connecticut offers a wide range of programs to help families meet basic needs and stay stable, safe, and supported.
Every family faces challenges at times. Asking for support is a strength, and your community is here to help.
This section includes trusted statewide resources and local supports available to families in Southington, Plainville, and Middlefield.
Statewide Food Resources
- Connecticut Foodshare — Find food pantries and mobile food markets across Connecticut.
- 211 CT Food Resources — Search food pantries, meal programs, SNAP support, and community services.
Local Food Pantries
Southington
- Southington Community Services — Food pantry and emergency assistance.
- Bread for Life — Community meals and food support.
Plainville
Middlefield / Rockfall
Housing & Rental Assistance
- CT Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
- Connecticut Department of Housing — Resources for eviction prevention, security deposits, and housing stabilization.
- 211 CT Housing & Shelter Resources — Help finding emergency shelter, rent assistance, and long-term housing support.
Your town social services office may assist with housing referrals, emergency support, and applications for available programs.
Utility Assistance
- Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) — Help paying winter heating bills.
- Operation Fuel — Emergency assistance for electricity, gas, water, and other critical utility needs.
- 211 CT Utility Assistance Search
Transportation Resources
- CTDOT Transit Finder — Find bus routes, paratransit, and public transportation options.
- Veyo HUSKY Transportation — Transportation to covered medical appointments.
Child Care & Early Childhood Resources
- CT Office of Early Childhood — Find Child Care — Search licensed programs and review program information.
- Care 4 Kids — Financial assistance for eligible families needing child care.
- Help Me Grow Connecticut — Connections to developmental, family, and community resources.
Financial & Basic Needs Programs
Local Social Services Offices
Southington Community Services
Food assistance, rent support, energy assistance, and holiday programs.
Visit Southington Community Services
Plainville Social Services
Housing support, food resources, utility assistance, and crisis services.
Visit Plainville Social Services
Middlefield Social Services
Food bank services, rental assistance, energy support, and family resources.
Visit Middlefield Social Services
Many programs have limited funding or application timelines. Contact local services as soon as you need support so they can help connect you with available resources.
Children thrive when their environments are safe, stable, and supportive. These resources help families prevent injuries, build safe routines, and know where to turn during emergencies.
Safety is a team effort — and small steps create big protection. Your awareness and preparation help keep your family healthy, confident, and safe.
Explore the topics below for trusted Connecticut and national resources covering vehicle safety, home safety, technology use, emergency planning, and more.
Car Seat & Vehicle Safety
Connecticut child passenger safety laws are designed to protect children as they grow.
- Rear-facing car seats until age 2 or until reaching the seat's height or weight limit
- Forward-facing seats with a harness are typically used between ages 2–5
- Booster seats are required until age 8 OR 60 pounds
- Seat belts should be used correctly, and the back seat is safest until at least age 13
Helpful Resources
Water Safety
Connecticut's pools, lakes, and beaches provide wonderful recreation, but water safety must always come first.
Parent Safety Tips
- Always supervise children around water
- Teach swimming skills early
- Use life jackets while boating and in open water
- Remove toys from pools to discourage unsupervised play
Learn More
Helmet Safety & Outdoor Play
Children should wear helmets when riding bikes, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, or rollerblades.
- Helmet sits snugly on the head
- Helmet is level from front to back
- It does not move more than one inch in any direction
- The straps form a “V” shape around the ears
Safe Kids Helmet Safety Information
Fire, Burn & Home Safety
- Change smoke detector batteries twice each year
- Keep a fire extinguisher in an accessible location
- Use outlet covers for toddlers and young children
- Create and practice a family fire escape plan
- Never leave cooking unattended
Poisoning & Hazard Safety
Common Household Dangers
- Medications
- Cleaning products
- Button batteries
- Cannabis edibles
- Vape or nicotine products
- Alcohol products
Safe Sleep for Infants
Remember the ABCs of safe sleep:
- Alone — babies should sleep without blankets, pillows, or toys
- Back — always place babies on their backs to sleep
- Crib — use a firm, flat sleep surface with an empty crib
Technology & Internet Safety
Technology is a valuable part of children's lives, but families benefit most when adults stay involved, set boundaries, and maintain open conversations.
Digital Safety by Age
Ages 3–7
- Use parent-controlled apps and keep screens in shared spaces
- Avoid allowing children to browse YouTube alone
- Choose educational, ad-free content when possible
Ages 8–12
- Teach responsible online behavior
- Monitor messaging, gaming, and online interactions
- Discuss cyberbullying, privacy, and digital kindness
Teenagers
- Review privacy settings together
- Discuss digital footprints and online reputation
- Encourage honest communication about online experiences
Core Safety Rules
- Never share a full name, address, school, or phone number online
- Do not communicate with strangers online
- Tell a trusted adult if something feels uncomfortable
- Only download apps approved by parents
Parent Tools
Helpful tools include Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link, Microsoft Family Safety, YouTube Kids filters, Roblox parental controls, TikTok Family Pairing, Instagram supervision tools, and Discord safety settings.
- Create device-free times such as meals and bedtime
- Keep devices out of bedrooms when possible
- Balance screens with outdoor play, reading, and family time
- Model healthy technology habits as adults
Emergency Preparedness & When You're Concerned
Be Ready
- Post emergency contacts where everyone can find them
- Create a family emergency kit
- Plan meeting locations during evacuations
- Teach children how and when to call 911
Online Safety or Mental Health Concerns
- CyberTipline — Report online exploitation concerns
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- 211 Connecticut — Youth mobile crisis and community support
Emergency Planning Resources
Trusted Internet & Family Safety Resources
- Common Sense Media — Parent guides, app reviews, and technology advice.
- StopBullying.gov
- Connecticut State Police Internet Safety Tips
- National Online Safety Guides
You do not need to know every app, game, or technology trend. The most powerful safety tool is an open conversation and a trusted relationship with your child.
Lead can harm a child's brain, growth, and development — and young children are the most at risk. Connecticut requires regular lead screening and provides strong protections for families. The good news: lead poisoning is 100% preventable.
This guide helps parents understand where lead comes from, how to prevent exposure, and what to do if testing shows an elevated level.
Older Homes (Built Before 1978)
The biggest source of lead exposure in Connecticut is peeling or chipping lead-based paint in older homes, including:
- Window frames
- Doors and trim
- Stairs and railings
- Porches
- Floors with settled paint dust
Other Possible Sources
- Contaminated soil
- Imported pottery, ceramics, spices, or cosmetics
- Old plumbing or pipes
- Certain toys, jewelry, or folk remedies
- Renovation or construction dust
Lead dust is small and easy for young children to ingest while crawling, playing, or putting hands in their mouths.
Required Lead Testing in Connecticut
Connecticut law requires pediatric providers to test all children:
- At age 1
- At age 2
If a child was not tested at those ages, testing is required up to the age of 6. Your child's doctor will order a simple blood test at routine well-child visits.
What the Results Mean
CT DPH monitors any blood lead level at or above 3.5 µg/dL (CDC reference value).
- Lower levels → continue routine prevention
- Elevated levels → follow-up testing + possible environmental investigation
- Higher levels → coordinated care through your local health department
What Happens If Your Child Has an Elevated Blood Lead Level?
If your child's test shows an elevated level, CT DPH and your local health department will:
- Provide follow-up testing
- Offer education and support to your family
- Conduct a home inspection (if levels meet state thresholds)
- Identify sources of lead exposure
- Work with landlords or property owners to fix hazards
Families are never penalized for testing. The goal is safety and prevention, not blame.
Inside the Home
- Wet-wipe windowsills and floors weekly
- Keep paint in good repair; report peeling paint to landlords
- Prevent children from playing near chipping paint
- Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking
- Wash hands, toys, and pacifiers often
During Renovations
If you live in a home built before 1978, always use EPA Lead-Safe Certified contractors. Unauthorized or DIY renovation can create dangerous lead dust.
Parents can search certified contractors through the EPA Lead-Safe Program.
Connecticut Resources
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program — guidance, laws, prevention tips, and family supports.
Provide inspections, case management, and education for families with elevated lead levels.
Supports young children who may have developmental delays due to lead exposure.
Federal Resources
Lead poisoning prevention, screening recommendations, and educational resources for families.
Lead-safe certified contractor lookup, Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) rules, and the "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" guide.
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
Speak with your child's doctor if you notice:
- Developmental delays
- Behavioral changes
- Learning difficulties
- Concerns about your home environment
Doctors can order testing outside of the 1- and 2-year schedule if needed.
Epi covers a lot of ground in her videos! This section is here so parents can stay in the loop — brushing up on the same topics your child is exploring, reinforcing healthy habits at home, and keeping the conversation going.
Topics Epi Covers
- 🧼 Handwashing
- 🏃 Physical Fitness
- 🪥 Hygiene
- 🥗 Healthy Eating Habits
- 🦠 Germ Prevention Habits
- 🛡️ Health & Safety Habits
- 😊 Our Feelings
How to Use These Topics with Your Family
- Watch a video together and ask your child what they learned
- Try one new habit from the topic that week
- Use the topic pages to find conversation starters and activities
- Let your child be the teacher — kids love explaining what Epi showed them
When kids see their parents interested in what they're learning, it reinforces that healthy habits really matter.
Questions?
We're here to help!
Epi and her friends are always learning and growing — just like your family. Explore more resources throughout the site.