Personalized support for young children and their families to achieve success in the early childhood classroom.

The Unconditional Child Care (UCC) Program provides services to child care centers and families when young children are struggling to be successful in the early childhood classroom. Young children who are at risk of being removed from child care due to difficult behavior problems are the typical referrals to the program. Most of the children receiving services are under the age of five, and most are referred because of social-emotional delays, at risk of falling further behind in all areas of development.

UCC aims to address and overcome challenging behavior with the goal of keeping children in their current child care environment. UCC staff works with parents, care providers, and others in the child’s life to develop a unique plan that addresses the behavioral issues the child is facing.

The Unconditional Child Care program has successfully served the Lehigh Valley for 25 years. Approximately 200 children receive UCC services each year in 145 centers in Lehigh and Northampton Counties.

Unconditional Child Care (UCC)

What Does Unconditional Child Care Do?

Unconditional Child Care works with parents and child care providers to provide support and intervention for young children whose behavior in child care is difficult to manage. Services and resources are brought to the child care program and to the family to help the child succeed in child care.

For children

  • Conducts in-classroom observation to assess the child’s needs.

  • Develops behavior plans and social skill lessons for the home and classroom.

  • Assists with obtaining other services (such as Early Intervention and professional evaluation.)

For parents and care providers

  • Provides support and guidance for parents and care providers when children are struggling.

  • Provides classroom coaching, parenting skill-building, and other training.

  • Gives all parties a voice in the process when developing behavior plans.

Who is eligible for UCC?

Unconditional Child Care will provide services for children who attend child care in Lehigh and Northampton Counties and whose parents reside in Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, and Monroe Counties. Parents who are using child care because of employment or enrollment in school are eligible for services. There is no cost to families or child care providers for UCC services.

How do you request UCC?

Referrals to Unconditional Child Care may be made by parents, providers, or others involved with the child by calling 610-432-3919. For more information or to request services, please contact:

Shelly Feller – Program Manager at 610-910-8435 or email her at