Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Child Care & Dental Services in Torrington, CT
Brooker Memorial has been a cornerstone of community support for over a century, dedicated to preparing children for lifelong success through education, health services, and family support. Founded in 1918, our mission reflects the compassionate legacy of Maria Seymour Brooker, whose vision for nurturing environments continues to guide our programs. Our experienced team delivers early learning, pediatric dental care, and family support services, prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity for all income levels. With a focus on innovation, we partner with local organizations to address evolving community needs, ensuring every child thrives in a safe, respectful environment.Our commitment to excellence is evident in our skilled professionals, state-certified programs, and personalized approach to child development. As a trusted nonprofit, we rely on community partnerships and donations to maintain affordable rates and expand our impact. From infant care to career counseling for teens, Brooker Memorial remains a beacon of support, blending tradition with modern best practices to empower families across Litchfield County.
Services
Early Learning & Child Care
Pediatric Dental Services
In-School Dental Care
Pathway To Success Program
Relatives As Parents Program
Children's Therapy
Summer Camp Programs
Music Classes
Yoga Classes
Gardening Activities
Details
- Year established: 1918
Highlights and features
- We offer over 100 years of experience in child care and community support.
- Our programs include state-certified early learning and pediatric dental services.
- We provide affordable rates with scholarship options for low-income families.
- Our staff includes experienced educators and board-certified dental professionals.
- We maintain secure, welcoming facilities with 24/7 surveillance and keypad access.
What people say
Grinning from ear to ear
Very kind and patient
So very kind and professional
Amazing staff with children
Warm and welcoming office
Services
Early Learning & Child Care
Our licensed early learning programs serve infants through third graders with age-specific curricula. Experienced teachers foster cognitive, social, and emotional development through play-based learning and enrichment activities. We maintain low student-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention in secure, nurturing environments.
Pediatric Dental Services
Comprehensive dental care for children and young adults with special needs includes preventive exams, restorative treatments, and emergency services. Our board-certified pediatric dentists use child-friendly techniques to create positive dental experiences in five fully equipped treatment rooms.
Pathway To Success Program
This initiative helps high school sophomores and juniors explore career paths through aptitude testing and professional mentorship. Students participate in hands-on assessments, career expos, and follow-up guidance sessions to identify natural strengths and suitable vocational directions.
Relatives As Parents Program
We provide resources and community connections for relative caregivers through support groups, educational workshops, and access to emergency financial assistance. The program addresses unique challenges faced by grandparents and other family members raising children.
Children's Therapy Services
In partnership with Cheshire Fitness Zone, we offer physical, occupational, and speech therapy for children with developmental needs. Certified therapists use evidence-based interventions to improve motor skills, communication abilities, and daily living functions through engaging, play-based sessions.
People
Christina Emery
Executive Director
Christina Emery brings 20+ years of nonprofit leadership experience to Brooker Memorial. She previously served as Director of Economic Development for Torrington and Executive Director of Prime Time House, focusing on children's wellness and community development.
Dr. Suher Baker
Dental Director
Dr. Baker is a dual-trained pediatric dentist and dental anesthesiologist with academic leadership experience at Yale and Oregon Health & Science University. She holds advanced degrees in pediatric dentistry and dental anesthesiology from top-tier institutions.
Charlene Lee
Child Care Director
With 20 years in early childhood education, Charlene Lee holds a BS in Psychology from UConn. She has progressed from classroom teacher to administrator, specializing in developmental psychology and early learning curriculum design.
Lynn Mellis Worthington
Community Engagement Coordinator
Lynn brings 26 years of experience in educational communications from South Kent School. She coordinates outreach programs and manages community partnerships, leveraging her background in journalism and nonprofit board leadership.
Kaitlyn Graboski
Operations Manager
Kaitlyn Graboski, a UConn communication graduate, has served in multiple leadership roles at Brooker since 2021. She manages daily operations while maintaining a focus on children's engagement through innovative program development.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We care for infants (6 weeks+) through third grade, with specialized programs for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children.
Do you accept children without insurance?
Yes, we offer scholarship programs and accept HUSKY Dental Insurance to ensure access for all families regardless of financial situation.
Are your staff members trained in child development?
Our educators hold relevant degrees and certifications, with many having 10+ years experience in early childhood education programs.
How can I schedule a facility tour?
Call 860-489-KIDS to arrange a personalized tour with our director during regular business hours (6:30 AM - 6 PM).
Do you provide after-school care?
Yes, our after-school program includes homework help, active play, and creative activities until 6 PM daily with transportation available.
Can I donate to support your programs?
Yes, donations fund scholarships, educational materials, and facility improvements. Visit our website to contribute to specific programs or general operations.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Ashley S.
Mar 10, 2022
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The child care center is excellent. I can honestly say that I trust them with my twins. The staff really cares about the children. My daughters had a speech impairment and within a matter of months made tremendous progress. The teachers are always engaging the children in fun activities that promote learning. Mrs Molly and Mrs. Lacey are the best. I am so happy with broker memorial.
Ftaq
Oct 10, 2021
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Please tell me if I am wrong, make appointment with Dr. We pay Co pays, insurance pays, and we have to live with there timing and if God forbid you late, our appointment was at 3 and I text and told them will be in at 3.15 because my son gets off the school bus 3.10 and I was at Dr. 3.20 she refused to see him because we were 20mins late. She said we can reschedule it I don't want reschedule, 20min and refuse to see.
We people have to pay top dollars to these Dr. And have to live with when they can see us. Children's Dr. Don't know kids go to school and they come back later afternoon let's stay open couple of days late so we can see the kids who needs help. NO that's not possible it's like my way or the highway. These dr.s need to work around working people schedule not around their schedule. It's very disappointing from Brooker Memorial.
I am very disappointed, very discouraged and completely unprofessional. I took time off from work get home asap took the kid of the bus drove nuts get to Dr. And she say sorry u late reschedule. I didn't ask to see him for free, and they are not giving free service either. On top they told me go see another Dr. Wow. Way to go BM.
We people have to pay top dollars to these Dr. And have to live with when they can see us. Children's Dr. Don't know kids go to school and they come back later afternoon let's stay open couple of days late so we can see the kids who needs help. NO that's not possible it's like my way or the highway. These dr.s need to work around working people schedule not around their schedule. It's very disappointing from Brooker Memorial.
I am very disappointed, very discouraged and completely unprofessional. I took time off from work get home asap took the kid of the bus drove nuts get to Dr. And she say sorry u late reschedule. I didn't ask to see him for free, and they are not giving free service either. On top they told me go see another Dr. Wow. Way to go BM.
Zakk The Wozz
Jan 16, 2018
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I have been bringing my children here for almost 20 years. Everyone has been so nice and great with my kids! Always clean and professional and worth the drive for me because they've never minded going to the dentist at all
