Quality Childcare Makes a Difference
“When I know my child is happy and being cared for in a safe, nurturing environment, it makes it easier for me to leave them and go to work”
This statement from working mom Sophie about dropping off 18-month old Mason at his Family Child Care Provider’s home is an echo of many parents’ sentiments as they leave their children so they can go to their jobs.
Finding a childcare space can be hard, especially in these times when providers are serving less children due to Covid safety protocols, have to close when there are positive cases or exposures, and are leaving the field altogether for better-paying and more stable work elsewhere. What does quality childcare look like? And how can a parent recognize it? Look for these signs when visiting a childcare program:
- Are parents and children greeted, acknowledged and welcomed into the environment? (as Covid protocols allow)
- Is the environment child-friendly, inviting and challenging? Does it foster independent exploration, include diverse materials and incite curiosity? Are children outside a good portion of the day?
- Is the cargiver affectionate, engaged, involved and down at the children’s level?
- Are health and safety and licensing (if a licensed program) guidelines adhered to and posted for all to see? Are staff certified in Pediatric First Aid and trained to recognize and report child abuse?
- Is the provider educated in early childhood theories and best practices and engaging in continual learning and quality improvement?
Leaving one’s child in the care of others, especially for the first time, can be scary and intimidating. It becomes easier when a trusted relationship is developed between parent and caregiver.
“At first, I was really nervous leaving Mason. Would he nap for her? Would he cry? He’s never been away from his dad and I for very long, so I was scared about the transition. But Lisa really put my fears to rest with her calm, steady manner and reassurances. And she sent me texts with pictures of him throughout the first few weeks, showing me how much fun he was having and that really helped me be comfortable leaving him to go to work.” (Sophie, new parent and childcare user)
