4Cs' Resource & Referral Service offers current information about child care and preschool availability and options, as well as other family resources across San Mateo County. At the 4Cs, we know that choosing a child care or preschool program is a huge responsibility for a parent or guardian. We are here to support families in making the choice that is right for them and to answer questions that come up for families before, during and after the selection process.

Our online database provides you access to over 1,000 childcare providers and preschools in San Mateo county. The database includes all licensed child care and preschool facilities as well as some programs that are exempt from licensing. Also, this link will take you to tips for using the database. Please note that the online database does not include all child care programs. Rather, it includes providers who gave 4Cs permission to include them. If you do not find what you are looking for online, call our phone counselors (650-517-1460) for complete listings.

Tips for Choosing is a list of resources that will help you find the child care or preschool that best meets your needs. We also have a series of articles to help you learn more about quality care for Infants, Preschoolers, School-Age Children, and In-Home Care.

Referrals Outside San Mateo County - Each county in California hosts a Resource and Referral Agency that provides free referrals to child care in that county. If you are a parent who is looking for childcare in a county other than San Mateo, please visit the California Child Care Resource and Referral Network's website to find the R&R nearest you.

Occasionally, one or more of our partner child care providers or care centers lets us know they have openings.  Click here to see if anything is available in or near your location.