Child Care

Child and Youth Programs is a comprehensive system of care that offers a wide range of programs to meet the needs of military families. The Child Development Center provides high-quality educational and recreational children’s programs that respect cultures and values for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age. There is no school age program at NAS Whiting Field, however there are various school age programs available through the Santa Rosa County community school system. For more information please call the Child Development Center, 850-623-7472/7367. To get on the waitlist for the Child Development Center visit militarychildcare.com.

The Whiting Field Child Development Center is located just inside the front gate in Building 36. The program is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and offers developmental programs and activities for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age. Breakfast, lunch and light snacks are served daily. The NAS Whiting CDC can be reached at 850-623-7472.

Hours of Operation -- The center is open Monday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Costs -- Fees are based on sliding scale and figured on total family income.

Programs Offered -- Both full time weekly care and drop-in care (space available basis) are available.

Enrollment 

To get on the waiting list families must sign up on MilitaryChildcare.com for each child. When a space becomes available the family will be given additional forms from the CDC to complete in order to secure the spot.  

Priority Care

Those applying for Priority 1 status (single or dual military) must also include a completed Family Care Plan, copy of Military page 2. Those applying for Priority 2 status (military w/ employed spouse) must include a spouse's verification of employment or up to date school registration.  

Waiting List 

Parents will receive an email every month from MilitaryChildCare.com which needs to be confirmed or updated in order for children to remain on the waitlist.  It is recommend that parents use a personal email that can be check while on leave or during a PCS. 

School Age Programs 
There is no school age program at NAS Whiting Field, however there are various school age programs available through the Santa Rosa County community school system. Please refer to the Education-Local Schools for contact information or the School Liaison Office, Dawn Kaunike at 850-665-6105.

The Family Child Care Program offers child care by DoN certified FCC Providers within the Community and Navy Housing. Providers complete a 40+ hour initial certification training covering Navy policies and local standard operating procedures, CPR and first aid, safety and fire prevention, developmentally appropriate activities, and much more. Providers participate in monthly trainings and homes are inspected monthly by FCC Staff and annually by Fire and Health Departments. All providers and family members complete a background screening. Childcare is offered to children from 6 weeks to 12 years of age. Some homes offer drop in and extended hour services. For more information, contact the Family Child Care Staff at 850-458-6588.