TOT-AL CARE is a child care concept borne out of need -- the need to provide quality child care in a nurturing, safe and clean environment.

The focus of that need is young children -- infants, toddlers, pre-school age children, and a certified kindergarten program.

In 1983, the concept became reality with the first child care center opening in Irondequoit. The focus remains the same today with the addition of TOT-AL CARE quality child care centers in Perinton and Canandaigua.

Many elements combine to create a quality environment for the care of young children. Among the most important at TOT-AL CARE are these:

2. A strong curriculum is basic to any teaching environment. The learning program at TOT-AL CARE is geared to individual age development, creating a challenge without overwhelming the child. Flexibility is the key. A varied curriculum allows the TOT-AL CARE teachers and caregivers to be creative according to the needs of our children.

3. Environment plays an important role in quality child care. The safety of the facility is essential -- an environment geared to the care of young children. Cleanliness is also an important element in a quality environment. TOT-AL CARE teachers and caregivers utilize antiseptic hand soap along with strict hand washing procedures. Disinfectant cleaners are used in maintaining a clean center.

Child care requirements may vary from family to family depending upon certain priorities -- location, hours of operation, tuition, program emphasis, and ages of acceptance. One requirement should always be essential -- quality child care.