Family Resources and Support
At Joy Learning Center, we know that families are children’s first teachers. This page is designed to connect you with trusted resources, support, and inspiration as you raise happy, healthy, and thriving little ones. Whether you’re looking for educational information, help with child care, or someone to talk to, we’ve gathered the most helpful links in one place. Parenting looks different at every stage—and we’re here to support you through all of them. Explore age-specific resources, tools, and programs to help your child thrive from infancy to Pre-K. Each section includes helpful links, tips, and ways to get connected with support in New Mexico.
INFANTS (0-12 months)
Your baby’s brain is growing rapidly! Responsive care, safe environments, and loving routines are the foundation for healthy development.
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helpful links:
- Apply for financial assistance to help pay for child care while you work or study: https://www.nmececd.org/programs-for-infants/
- Moments together,Toddler Activities get ideas for music, movement, and positive routines: https://momentsnm.org/ages-0-2/
- Learn about safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of SIDS and create a safe sleep environment: https://www.nmhealth.org/about/phd/fhb/fss/sids/
- Access local breastfeeding support, nutrition help, and guidance for infant feeding: https://www.nmwic.org/
TODDLERS (1-3 years)
Toddlers are learning through movement, words, and independence. It’s the perfect time to encourage exploration while setting consistent boundaries and routines.
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helpful links:
- New Mexico offers income-based support to help families afford quality toddler care. https://www.nmececd.org/programs-for-toddlers/
- Fun, age-appropriate activities that support your toddler’s language, motor, and social development. https://momentsnm.org/ages-0-2/
- If you have concerns about your child’s development, this program offers free screenings and early support. https://www.nmececd.org/family-infant-toddler-fit-program/
- Track your child’s growth with easy-to-follow checklists for movement, speech, and social skills. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html
PRE-K (3-5 years)
In these years, your child is getting ready for school—learning how to play with others, express emotions, and explore letters, numbers, and big ideas.
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Helpful Links:
- Explore free, state-funded preschool programs that prepare children for kindergarten and lifelong learning. https://www.nmececd.org/programs-for-prek/
- Discover playful routines that build literacy, emotional skills, and confidence at home. https://momentsnm.org/ages-3-5/
- Understand how early education programs support children, families, and communities. https://www.srca.nm.gov/nmac-home/nmac-titles/title-8-social-services/chapter-9-early-childhood-education-and-care/
- Explore what high-quality preschool looks like and what children are expected to learn at this stage. https://www.nmececd.org/preschool-guidelines/
- Help your child get ready for the transition to elementary school with this practical checklist. https://www.nmececd.org/k-readiness/
HOTLINE/CRISIS NUMBERS
**in case of an emergency call 911*
- NM SCI Line (Child Abuse and Neglect) - 24 hours:1-855-333-SAFE (7233) or #SAFE from cell
- New Mexico Crisis and Access Line - 24 hours: 1-855-NMCRISIS (662-7474) or 1-855-227-5485 TTY
- Coronavirus Hotline: 1-855-600-3453 (toll free) and 1-505-827-0006
- Child Welfare Information Gateway
- National Domestic Violence Hotline - 24 hours: 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 TTY
- The National Child help Hotline - 24/7: (1-800) 4-A-Child or (1-800) 422-4453
- UNM New Mexico Poison & Drug Information Center: 1-800-222-1222 or go to: https://hsc.unm.edu/poison/
- Law Help New Mexico
- Agora Crisis Center: 1-866-HELP-1-NM (435-7166)
- CYFD Local Resources
- NewMexicoKids: 1-800-691-9067 NewMexicoKids.org
- New Mexico Department of Health New Mexico Department of Health