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As you visit Centres,
ask yourself...
Is the program
in compliance with applicable laws or licensing regulations?
Licenced programs have met the minimum standards for healthy
and safe care.
Family Involvement
- Does the program
have an "open door" policy where you are welcome
to drop by and visit whenever you wish?
- Are parents
encouraged to participate in program planning and events?
- Will you be
regularly informed of your child's progress and childcare
experiences?
- Are general
program policies and procedures available to you in writing?
The Staff
- Do the caregivers
have training and experience working with children?
- Do caregivers
interact one-on-one with children in a warm and responsive
way?
- Are caregivers
responsible for small groups of children? Required ratios
for adults to children are:
Infants:
1:3; Toddlers: 1:5; Pre-schoolers: 1:8; School Age: 1:15.
The Environment
- Is the physical
environment a bright, warm and inviting place?
- Is the environment
designed with children in mind?
- Furniture should
be child-sized. Materials should be accessible. Displays
should be at the child's eye level.
- Are the toys
and materials plentiful, developmentally appropriate and
in good repair?
The Program
- Are there daily
opportunities for free play?
- Is there a balance
between quiet and active, large and small group activities?
- Are there daily
opportunities for outdoor or very active play?
- Does the program
or curriculum reflect a sensitivity and respect for those
from diverse ethnic and cultural groups?
- Do the activities
promote growth in different areas of development including
physical growth, social skills, emotional growth, verbal
skills, cognitive ability and creativity?
This checklist
is only a brief overview of what to consider when choosing
a quality daycare program for your child. Check references,
don't be afraid to ask questions and make sure you feel
satisfied before leaving your child in anyone's care!
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