| While no one can replace you, quality child care will offer your child a stimulating environment which should help prepare him for school and to reach his full potential.
So what exactly is quality child care? Well, quality is defined as a degree of excellence. This means not average, not “it will do” child care, but excellent child care. Bottom line, you need to feel that the child care provider you select will offer a safe and stimulating environment in which your child will mentally and physically thrive. Characteristics of Quality: As you begin your search, here’s what to look for in quality child care:- Settings that are safe and provide small group sizes and adult-to-child ratios encouraging the best opportunities for development
- Caregivers or teachers who have experience and are trained in early childhood development
- Settings that offer opportunities for meaningful parent involvement
- Learning materials and teaching styles that are age appropriate and respectful of children’s cultural and ethic heritage
- Learning opportunities that promote your child’s success in school.
Five Steps to Finding Quality Child Care- Look: Begin by visiting several child care homes or centers. On each visit think about your first impression. Don’t stop there. Does the place look safe for your child? Do the caregiver’s/teachers who will care for your child enjoy talking and playing with children?
- Listen: What does the child care setting sound like? Do the children sound happy and involved? A place that's too quiet may mean not enough activity. A place that’s too noisy may mean a lack of control.
- Count: Count the number of children in the group. Then count the number of staff members caring for them. The fewer children for each adult, the more attention your child will get. A small number of children per adult is most important for babies and younger children.
- Ask: The knowledge and experience of the adults caring for your child are very important. Find out about the special training they have. Ask about the background, training and experience of all adults who will have contact with your child. A quality child care provider will be happy to have you ask questions.
- Be Informed: Find out more about efforts in your community to improve the quality of child care. Is your caregiver involved? Has your provider achieved training beyond the minimum requirements?
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