Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Childcare and Family Services in Torrington
Brooker Memorial was founded in 1918 with a mission to prepare children for lifelong success through education, health services, and family support. As a community-focused organization serving Northwest Connecticut for over a century, we provide early learning programs, pediatric dental care, career guidance for teens, and support for family caregivers. Our experienced team delivers services in a nurturing environment that prioritizes safety, inclusivity, and developmental excellence.We maintain partnerships with local schools and healthcare providers while operating scholarship programs to ensure accessibility for all families regardless of income. With over 100 years of continuous service, we combine historical legacy with modern programming to create lasting impact in our community.
Services
Early Childhood Education
Pediatric Dental Care
School-Based Dental Clinics
Career Aptitude Testing
Family Support Programs
Details
- Year established: 1918
Highlights and features
- Over 100 years of continuous service to Northwest Connecticut
- Licensed childcare programs for infants through grade 3
- School-based dental services in 10+ regional schools
- Free enrichment activities including music, yoga, and gardening
- Community support programs for all income levels
Associations and certifications
- Connecticuts Care 4 Kids
- Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce Quality of Life Award
- United Way Best Supporting Organization
What people say
Loved it there
Professional staff
Nurturing environment
Positive dental experiences
Valuable programs
Services
Early Childhood Education
Brooker Memorial offers comprehensive early learning programs for children aged 6 weeks to grade 3. Our licensed childcare centers provide developmentally appropriate curricula with experienced teachers, secure facilities, and enrichment activities including music, yoga, and gardening. Programs include infant care, toddler exploration, preschool preparation, and after-school programs with academic support.
Pediatric Dental Care
Our Pediatric Dental Center provides comprehensive oral health services for children and young adults. Services include preventive care, restorative treatments, and sedation dentistry with board-certified specialists. We accept HUSKY insurance, private insurance, and offer scholarship programs. School-based clinics deliver care directly to students in 10+ regional schools through mobile dental teams.
Career Aptitude Testing
Pathway to Success program offers career exploration through Johnson O'Connor Research Foundation assessments. High school students participate in day-long aptitude evaluations followed by professional mentoring sessions. The program includes career expos with industry professionals and follow-up counseling to help teens make informed educational and career choices based on their natural abilities.
Family Support Programs
Relatives as Parents Program (RAPP) provides resources and community for grandparent and relative caregivers. The Ruth Chadwick Care Closet offers essential items while support groups create networks for caregivers navigating unique parenting challenges. Community engagement initiatives connect families with local resources and educational opportunities.
Therapeutic Services
Partnership with Cheshire Fitness Zone delivers physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. Our therapists work with children to improve motor skills, sensory processing, communication abilities, and daily living skills through individualized treatment plans. Services focus on maximizing developmental potential while supporting overall educational success.
People
Christina Emery
Executive Director
Executive Director with 20+ years in community leadership, previously Director of Economic Development for Torrington and Executive Director of Prime Time House. Active community board member with degrees from Simmons College and Trinity College. Committed to children's wellness and development.
Charlene Lee
Child Care Director
Child Care Director with 20 years experience in early childhood education. Holds B.S. in Psychology with early childhood minor from UConn. Combines classroom experience with administrative leadership to ensure quality programming and family engagement.
Dr. Suher Baker
Dental Director
Board-certified pediatric dentist and anesthesiologist with academic leadership experience at Yale and Oregon Health. Holds dental degrees from Penn and Michigan, plus MBA from Oregon Health. Specializes in special needs care and dental anxiety research.
Lynn Mellis Worthington
Community Engagement Coordinator
26-year independent school publishing director with journalism experience. Manages community programs and Pathway initiatives. Currently serves on historical restoration board and brings communications expertise to program development.
Nicole DePaoli
Assistant Child Care Director
Early childhood educator with 30+ years experience. Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Studies. Focused on classroom development and parent engagement. Celebrates child achievements through supportive educational techniques.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We care for children aged 6 weeks through grade 3 with specialized programming for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and after-school students.
Do you provide meals?
We provide nutritious snacks but parents supply meals. Our staff manages food allergies while offering healthy fruit, vegetable, and whole grain options.
Are services income-based?
Programs are available to all families regardless of income. We offer scholarships and accept Connecticuts Care 4 Kids tuition assistance programs.
How do you communicate with parents?
We use the Procare app for daily updates, progress reports, and parent-teacher communication. Staff maintains open dialogue during daily drop-off and pick-up times.
What dental services are available?
We provide comprehensive pediatric dental care including cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and restorative work with both office and school-based clinics.
How do you handle discipline?
We use positive guidance techniques focusing on emotional understanding, conflict resolution, and social-emotional skill development in a respectful environment.
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