Updated 03/21/20
Q: Where do I find out which centers are remaining open?
A: We’re continuously updating the
KinderCare website to provide the latest list of centers open to support those families who are first responders, critical medical personnel and on the front lines who continue to provide essential care during these unprecedented times.
Q: How did you decide which centers are staying open?
A: Decisions were based on the center’s proximity to hospitals, demand from families in essential services and where government, employers we work with or schools have asked for help. We’ll remain flexible to address community needs for emergency care as they arise.
Q: How are essential services defined?
A: First responders, critical healthcare providers, essential service workers and others who keep our neighborhoods running like food service, grocery and pharmacy employees.
Q: Does this mean all centers are closing starting Monday?
A: Starting Monday March 23, we’ll focus on providing childcare for those in essential services at select centers across the country. KinderCare Education at Work centers at medical facilities will remain open and we will continue to partner with employers to support their childcare needs. Champions is staying in contact with school administrators to re-open as requested. We’ll address community needs for emergency care wherever we are able.
Q: If my center closes, what happens to the staff?
A: We have a team dedicated to supporting them through this time. The federal government and individual states are working to make unemployment funds more readily available and we are following the changes to guide our employees through the process. We look forward to standing alongside all of them as soon as we welcome children back into all our centers.
Q: How are you staffing the centers that remain open?
A: We gave teachers and staff the ability to choose to help us support these essential centers. We will also tap our community network of teachers and staff as need arises.
Q: What safety measures are you putting in place for those centers that remain open?
A: We’re evolving our health and safety practices based on guidance from a medical advisor and the CDC. This includes enhanced health screenings for staff and children upon entry, rigorous social distancing practices and keeping the same groups together throughout the day to reduce risk. We’re also enhancing our teacher and staff training on the most up-to-date precautions and preventative measures.
Q: How will you let us know when you re-open a center?
A: Your CD will be in touch when the center re-opens, and we will update you through our app and website.
Q: Will I get a refund for the remaining time in March?
A: Yes, your CD will work with you to do so. If the center is closed, you can call 866-337-3105 and talk with one of our customer care specialists, Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time. You can also email
Customer Care or find a link on the
KinderCare website to chat with our team.
Q: Will I have to pay for childcare while the center is closed?
A: No, we are not charging families while a center is closed or if they took their child out due to coronavirus concerns. For help, you can call 866-337-3105 to talk with one of our customer care specialists, Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time. You can also email
Customer Care or find a link on the
KinderCare website to chat with our team.
Q: If I’m currently enrolled in what’s now an essential center, do I have to re-enroll?
A: No, there is no need for currently enrolled families to re-enroll.
Q: If I transfer to an essential center, will my tuition be price matched?
A: Yes, tuition rates from non-essential centers will be honored.
Q: If I’m an essential worker and my center is closing how do I enroll in an essential center near me?
A: Log into your Family Connection account and request enrollment at the essential center.
Q: What if my employment is not described as essential, can I still bring my child to an essential center?
A: Our goal is to accommodate as many families as possible. Any family currently enrolled in an essential center, first responders, critical medical personnel and those providing essential care will be prioritized.
Q: Will essential centers accommodate full time and part time care schedules?
A: Yes, full-time, part-time and drop-in care will be accommodated based on availability.
Q: I still need to work. Can I qualify to keep my child in a center?
A: Any family currently enrolled in an essential care center will be able to stay. We’ll then prioritize first responders, critical medical personnel and providing essential care. If you believe your family is in one of those categories, we’ll work with you to explore your options.
Q: If I’m a current family of a now essential center and my child is at home, is my space at risk? Will it be held?
A: We will be doing our best to accommodate all families during this time. Our goal is to resume normal operations as soon as safely possible.
Q: What if the essential center I would like to use is full?
A: Our goal is to accommodate as many families as possible. Inquiring families will be placed on a wait list and notified when space becomes available.
Q: Why isn’t there an essential center in my area?
A: Given the urgent public need, decisions were based on proximity to medical centers and centers with larger numbers of employees on the front lines – such as first responders, health care professionals and other essential workers. We continue to evaluate reopening our centers to address the need for emergency care.
Q: Do you have any resources to help me at home?
A: Yes. We have created a helpful resource guide of our curriculum activities for all age groups on the
KinderCare website. There’s also a link on the page where you can chat with us or call for help. We’ll continue to update the content on our website and share it on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
