Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the "Grandma" program?

From 1992 to 2004, GRCMA Early Childhood Directions operated under a contract with the Alabama Department of Human Resources to administer child care subsidy services for Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe and Washington Counties. Our agency was dubbed, “the Grandma (GRCMA) program.” However, this title continues to “stick” and we continue to receive daily calls for child care subsidy, which are then referred to Child Care South at 251-433-2878.

How do I register for a class?

Early Childhood Directions publishes a Training Events Calendar quarterly. This show you the classes that will be available for the next 3 months with the time, place, categories’ and description of each class. There are several ways to register. You can follow this link and after selecting your classes and filling out the registrations form it will be e-mailed to us. Registrations are always first come first servced, so keep in mind that you may not always be successfully enrolled in every class you have selected. You will receieve a confirmation of the classes you have successfully been enrolled in. You may also call and have a calendar mailed to you or come in and pick up a calendar at 3100 Cottage Hill Road Bldg 4 Suite 400 Mobile, Al. 36606. Registration can also be faxed (251)473-1084 or mailed to us.

How much do classes cost?

There is no cost for any of the classes offered at GRCMA Early Childhood Directions.

If a class is full, can I walk in?

Pre-registration for classes is preferred. Walk-ins are discouraged because we do not want someone to be turned away because a class is full and they have the added expense of transportation to and from the class.

Is my child on the waiting list for the Early Head Start program in Mobile County?

In 2009, GRCMA was awarded a contract to administer the Early Head Start Program in Mobile County for 104 children ages 0 to 3 years at four local child care centers. A waiting list is maintained by the EHS office, located at 3100 Cottage Hill Road, Building 4, in Mobile. Parents may contact this office by calling (251)473-1060, ext. 113.

I would like to open a day care center/home. How do I start?

THose interesting in becoming new child care providers are referred to the local County DHR offices for more information on licensing or exemption. If you would like more information, please follow this link to the Department of Human Resources website.

What is the family child care home orientation?

Licensed Family Daycare training classes are held every two months. Mobile County DHR will provide information pertinent to opening a licensed Family or Group day care home. The training classes will be held at Early Childhood Directions (GRCMA) from 9:00am to 12:00pm on scheduled days. For more information about these classes, download the flyer.

Do I have to be a member of the Resource Place to visit the Cutter's Corner Teacher Work Room?

No, you do not have to maintain a membership in order to use the Work Room. Bring your own paper and visit the teacher work room where over 500 die cuts are available. (If you do maintain a membership, your first 10 cuts are free.) In addition, we have a laminating machine, paper cutters, and a wide variety of colorful bulletin board paper

Where do the materials in the Reusable Center come from, and do I have to be a member of the Resource Place to use these materials?

Membership to visit the Reusable Center is not required. These materials and items are donated by local industry to be reused in the classroom. Otherwise, these materials would be destined for the local landfills. Patrons include art teachers, the local children’s art educators, school teachers, early educators, Vacation Bible School programs, etc.

Do I have to be a child care Center Director to apply for membership in the lending library?

Lending library memberships are not limited to centers only. Individual memberships for child care professionals, teachers, and parents are also available. Please contact the Resource Room desk for more information on which membership will best suit your needs

E-mail: info@grcma.org