When your child is ready to begin an early childhood education program, choosing the right option can feel daunting. With many options available, how do you decide on the best fit for your child? You can be confident that you’re making the right choice by keeping these five things in mind while making your decision.
1. Prioritize Safety and Health Standards
Your child’s safety and well-being are a top priority. When considering a program, confirm that it is licensed and meets state and local requirements. Clear emergency plans and procedures should be established, along with regular cleaning and maintenance schedules. Ask about their plan for providing nutritious meals and accommodations for dietary needs and allergies. Finally, learn about their sick policy for when a child must stay home, and how they handle known exposure to illness.
2. Evaluate the Curriculum and Learning Approach
A vibrant childcare program will include a curriculum that prepares children for public school enrollment in the coming years. As you evaluate your choices, consider how they balance play-based and structured learning activities. Ask about opportunities for your child to grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively, including programs such as art classes, physical games, and outdoor play. Consider whether the program’s strengths align with your child’s interests and needs.
3. Observe Teacher-Child Interactions
The teacher-child relationship is crucial in a childcare education environment. When you visit a facility, observe the teachers interacting with their students to determine if your child will receive the care and attention needed for their growth and development. Be sure to find out about the standard staff-to-child ratios. Just as important to confirm are the qualifications teachers have, as well as the training that program staff receive. You can also consider asking for CLASS scores or for their School Performance Rating to increase your confidence in your choice.
4. Seek Input from Other Parents
Perhaps one of the best ways to gain insight into a program is to ask the thoughts of other parents. The facility you’re considering may provide references from current or past families. Ask other parents what they liked about a program, and whether they encountered any challenges. Hearing from other parents can help you make the right decision for your child.
5. Consider Logistics and Family Fit
When choosing a program for your child, it’s important to consider how the choice will impact your whole family. Consider the program’s location and whether you’ll need to arrange transportation to accommodate your family’s schedule. Be sure to consider cost – the average US family with two incomes will spend 10% or more of their income on childcare, according to Zippia. Ask whether financial assistance is available for families; your options may surprise you.
Choosing a program for your little one can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in your decision. Selecting a program that fits your child’s needs is an investment that will pay off for years to come. As you consider childcare in New Orleans, find more resources and information by visiting enrollnolaps.com/birth-4-years. We are happy to help you along every step of your journey!