For more than 20 years, the YWCA of Boulder County has operated Children's Alley, which is the county's only temporary, drop-in childcare center serving children ages six weeks to 12 years old. Parents may bring their children for as little as several hours, several days or up to six weeks.

The Quali-star rated facility was voted the number one childcare center in Boulder County Gold Awards in 2007 and 2006. In 2007, the center served nearly 600 families through 8,000 child visits. The center offers separate areas with age-appropriate activities for infants, toddlers and preschool age children, as well as for school age youth.

Last year, more than 60 percent of the parents cited they utilized the childcare service to help maintain employment or attend job interviews. Also, many parents use Children's Alley until they can find permanent care or if they are unable to find a babysitter.

Finding quality, affordable childcare is an ongoing concern for parents. Often times, there are wait lists for childcare centers, including preschools, and parents need a place to take their children during the interim.

New parents are often surprised to learn that few options exist for infant care. In 2005 there were 1,594 childcare slots for children under 2 years in Boulder County: 584 slots for 0-1 year, and 1,010 slots for 1-2 years. However, the birthrate in 2005 was 3,500. ( Source: City of Boulder Department of Housing & Human Services Children, Youth and Families Division.) Children's Alley offers an Infant Development Center specifically designed for infants ages six weeks to 18-months-old and extended contract care is available for up to four childcare slots.

Along with providing childcare for families seeking a permanent solution, Children's Alley is also helpful for stay-at-home parents who want occasional daycare when they have appointments, errands or other activities.

Parents needing evening care for work reasons or to attend classes often turn to Children's Alley. The center is open until 9:45 pm on Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The YWCA also finds a number of parents using the center as an alternative to a babysitter for routine outings such as going out to dinner.

Children's Alley is open 7:30 am to 9:45 pm on Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am to 5:45 pm on Friday and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday. To learn more, please call (303) 449-1951 or visit www.ywcaboulder.org. Fees are based on a sliding-scale to ensure every family can benefit from this helpful childcare service.