There are some differences in the method of service delivery depending on the needs and strengths of the communities being served as identified by local advisory boards. However, the overall philosophy and goals are consistent throughout these programs. Up to 5 days of child day care through community based childcare centers or licensed family day care providers. The Crisis Nurseries of Children's Home Society developed a model of care for children using private homes rather than a residential setting. This model was established with the hope that a home environment and consistent family care-givers, as opposed to the frequent staff changes in a residential setting, would promote feelings of security and stability in the children served.
Placement can occur only when a parent or legal guardian voluntarily requests shelter for a child.
When a parent calls and requests placement, the crisis nursery staff assists the parent in evaluating the nature of the crisis and in exploring alternative solutions including personal resources and supports. If the child's safety and well being cannot be assured and placement seems appropriate, the staff will ask pertinent questions regarding the child to provide essential information to determine an appropriate shelter home or child care setting i.e. medical problems, allergies, special care needs, current source of medical care, immunization status, specific fears and adjustment to change. If a child is described as having a medical or behavior problem, the staff asks permission to discuss this with the child's physician or other health care provider and then seeks a home qualified to provide the needed care. The staff person encourages and assists the parent to prepare the children for the separation of placement in a way that is positive and non-punitive. Parents are also encouraged to give the child the first names of the family they will be staying with and when they will return home to the parent.