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| Family Resource & Referral Center 934 N. Augusta Street Staunton, VA 24401 Phone: 540.245.5899 Fax: 540.885.2185 |
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Click here for parent's responsibilities TIPS - Training Information for Provider Sucess Calendar |
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This section is designed to assist parents in choosing daycare providers, help providers receive referrals, supply frequently asked questions, and also address issues concerning child care,
WHAT IS QUALITY CHILD CARE?
• Affectionate caregivers, sensitive to children's needs
• Small group size, clear and predictable routines
• Same person cares for child over a period of time
• Safe, healthy settings that meet child's physical needs
• Interesting and stimulating daily activites offered
WHAT
TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING CHILD CARE
The Physical Setting
- Is the setting clean and comfortable, inviting to children
- Is there enough room for children for quiet and active play, eating and napping? Is the temperature comfortable? Lighting pleasant?
- Is there a safe outdoor play area with adequate room for all the children - with equipment that is appropriate for the ages of children in care?
- Are there enough toys and equipment for the number of children in care - are they appropriate for the ages of the children - are they clean and well cared for
- How are potential hazards handled? (Wood stoves, stairs,electric plugs, medicines, firearms, etc.)
- Are there fire extinguishers and smoke alarms on all floors?
The Caregiver
- Is the provider warm and affectionate with children, and responsive to them and their needs?
- What rules are children expected to follow? How is misbehavior handled? Do discipline methods teach children what to do, rather than what not to do?
- Does the caregiver make children feel good about themselves and what they are doing? Are the children given the opportunity to make choices, but only when they actually have a choice?
- How are the children's arguments handled? Are the children taught how to share or take turns and to play cooperatively?
- Does the provider have references? Be sure to check these.
Basic Information
• The hours are suitable
• I can afford the fees
• Meals and snacks are appropriate and nutritious
• Transportation is available
• The group size and age groupings are acceptable
The Staff
• They have good training, and experience with children
• Most have been in the program for at least 1 year
• Disciplinary methods are acceptable
• They are friendly and cooperative
• Staff members are responsive and supportive
The Place
• The setting is bright and cheerful
• Children seem happy
• Staff members and children get along well
• There is a balanced daily schedule
• Children can take part in activities appropriate for their age
• Children are comforted when needed
• The place is clean and orderly
• Safety precautions are established
• Different kinds of space are available for quiet play, active play and play outdoors
• There is enough space for all activities
• There are enough books, paints, blocks, musical toys, games, and puzzles, etc.
• Children can get things for themselves
Parental Involvement
• Parents are involved in decision-making
• Parents participate in some activites
Overall Impression
• References are provided
• People who have used this service speak well of it
• I would be happy here if I were a child
• I feel comfortable leaving my child here
Click here for a list of...
Certified Family Child Care Providers
Licensed Family Child Care Providers
Licensed Child Care Centers
This agency does not screen or inspect homes or centers or in any way act as a regulatory agency. Since parental choice is a very important component of child care arrangements - we make referrals, not recommendations. It is the responsibility of the parent seeking care to verify that a provider's information is accurate and evaluate the quality of childcare being offered. Counseling, information and resources are available to assist parents in choosing the situation that best fits their child's needs. Referred providers are certified, licensed, and registered.