Childcare and Caregiving for College Students in Massachusetts

Do not assume a child or dependent can remain with you during a virtual session. Their presence could affect your ability to participate and may raise confidentiality or immediate-care concerns. Admissions can explain the participation expectations for the proposed program. A dependable alternative is another responsible person covering the entire session. You must also be physically present in Massachusetts each time, and assessment determines whether virtual care is clinically appropriate.

Ask in advance whom to contact and how attendance questions are handled for the proposed care plan. Do not assume that every absence, schedule change or alternate format can be approved. If coverage fails, contact the identified program or admissions contact promptly and follow the instructions provided. Avoid leaving a child or dependent without appropriate care to attend treatment.

Usually, wait for current program information and assessment before making a difficult or irreversible schedule change. An initial call or referral does not establish format, admission or start timing. Check your college website or student services directory for student-parent, dependent-care and academic-accommodation contacts, then follow the school’s applicable procedure and deadlines.

Possibly. The U.S. Department of Labor states that eligible employees of covered employers may receive unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying reasons when all requirements are met. Student status neither creates nor prevents eligibility by itself. Your work history, employer and reason for leave affect whether FMLA applies, and your employer may require notices or verification.

Provide your name and callback information through the form. Save symptoms, diagnoses, medicines, records, substance use history and family information for an appropriate direct conversation. A callback request does not confirm an assessment, admission or treatment date.