First, the database is limited to providing only one address; the Parent Resource Centers have three locations: two in Rockville, and one in Gaithersburg. -------------- On the surface, the... More

First, the database is limited to providing only one address; the Parent Resource Centers have three locations: two in Rockville, and one in Gaithersburg. -------------- On the surface, the Parent Resource Centers are rooms chock full of toys. In truth, the PRCs are so much more... Each location is staffed by an experienced Parent Educator; some even have two. Emory Grove, for example, has both an English and bilingual (Spanish/English) Parent Educator. These educators not only guide the activities at their centers, but are also a kind, supportive, experienced resource for questions running the gamut of parenting concerns. Activity at the PRCs is largely unstructured -- its a fabulous free-play opportunity. In additional to the toys, ranging in age-appropriateness from infants through kindergarten+, there is always a table with play-dough or "goop." There are also easels for painting. And, there is a craft available for those kids interested in this. What does have a fixed time-point is circle time. Led by the Parent Educators(s), this runs about 20 minutes, and includes things like rhymes, songs, a story, color/shape matching, finger plays and similar developmental goodies. The PRCs are a bargain, pricewise. The fees are on a sliding scale, based on family income. However, if the fees are an issue, please speak with the staff to explore options. A beauty of the PRC program is that it's essentially on a drop-in basis. Once you have paid your membership, you are welcome to use any of the PRC locations. And, you can come as often or infrequently as you choose.
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