University Community Childcare in Schilleter-University Village provides a place for sick children to go during the day through a program called the Comfort Zone.

The Comfort Zone is a program that provides care for children ages 6 months to 11 years old when they have routine childhood illnesses, such as the flu or pink eye.

The Comfort Zone cares for children based on how the parent wants their child cared for.

“We really value the parents wishes,” said Candy Gaedke, assistant director of Community Childcare. “We ask questions on guidance for their children and how they want them cared for, and that is a peace of mind on their part.”

Kathy Mumm, registered nurse for the Comfort Zone, said the program has a maximum of eight children per day. The Comfort Zone barely ever fills to capacity, and some days they do not have any children present, Mumm said.

“Many children have separation issues from their parents, especially when they aren’t feeling well,” Mumm said. “Most children tend to calm down within the first 15 minutes when they get used to the new environment.”

Parents are assured they will be contacted if something happens to their child that requires attention, and they are also welcome to call and check in on their child at any time during the day, Mumm said.

The staff at the Comfort Zone wants parents to feel at ease with leaving their child there while they attend to other responsibilities.

“The child is getting the nursing care, but also the early childhood activities,” Gaedke said. “They are having enjoyment but also get the care they need from the nurse.”

Mumm, who has been working at the Comfort Zone for eight months, said her personal goal, as well as a major goal for the program is to spread awareness about the program which parents can take advantage of.

“Children are sick every day, and if more people knew about the program, this room would be used more,” Mumm said.

This center also boasts of its diversity.

“We have teachers from all over that world that work at UCC,” Gaedke said. “We have Korean-speaking teachers, Chinese-speaking teachers and Spanish-speaking teachers.”

These teachers can help families by translating, Gaedke said.

This center opened in 1993 for students, faculty and residents in Ames to have care available for their children so they do not need to miss class or work.

The center offers care from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and tailors its activities on the condition of the children who are there for the day, Mumm said.