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Choosing Child Care |
Some things to check when making decisions
You are the person who knows best what you and your child need in a child care setting. The following are some things the Child Care Aware project for quality child care suggests are good ways to measure the quality of a child care home or center.
The Caregivers/Teachers
- seem to really like children
- get down to the child's level to speak to the child
- greet the children when they arrive
- meet the children's needs, even when they are busy are involved in continuing education, including first aid/CPR and the ways children grow and learn
- are ready to answer your questions about your child and the activities he/she is involved in
The Setting
- is pleasant, bright, child-oriented, and safe
- is a space where children are encouraged to explore and create
- has areas for quiet and active play and resting for individuals and groups
- has both indoor and outdoor play spaces in all weather has a variety of safe equipment both indoors and outdoors, in a fenced, easily supervised space large enough for the numbers of children cared for
Activities
- There is a flexible daily plan so children can depend on certain things at certain times (play, rest, food) This plan balances group play, time alone, quiet, active, and rest times.
- There are enough toys, equipment, and materials for all ages in care and TV plays only a small part in the program.
- Toys are clean, safe, age appropriate, and within reach of the children.
- Children are encouraged to do as much as they can for themselves
- Infants are given space to crawl, walk, and play out of playpens, swings, and seats.
Other Things to Consider
- Do you agree with the discipline practices? Do adults explain clearly to children what is expected in words they can understand?
- Do you hear sounds of happy children, actively engaged in fun activities?
- Are children comforted when they need it?
- Are drop-in visits from parents supported?
- Is the program licensed or registered? If not, why not?
