Choosing quality child care
When it comes to looking for child care, you want the best for your child. Research shows that high quality child care can have a positive impact on a child’s overall development. Finding high quality child care is very important for your child's well-being.
Most programs and providers are licensed by the State of Minnesota. Licensed child care programs are expected to meet basic requirements, providing settings that are safe and healthy, and staffed by adults who have some training or experience in caring for children. However, these licensing standards are basic guidelines and do not ensure high quality care. You must rely on your own assessment to determine the quality of care.
Here are some things to consider when looking for child care:
- Caregiver education — Training in child development is very important. The caregiver should understand how children develop, their stages of growth and their behavior at various ages. Although specialized training is a key indicator of quality, it's best to look for a provider who has both training and experience.
- National child care standards/Accreditation — Some licensed child care programs have met national standards of quality that are more rigorous than licensing rules. They are then considered to be accredited. These programs/providers take extra training and pass tests to receive national recognition.
- Group size — Children benefit from the individual attention possible in smaller groups. State licensing rules set standards for how many children of various ages may be cared for by one adult. However, some licensed homes and centers care for fewer children or have more adults to attend to children in smaller groups.
- Family involvement — A high quality program is responsive to each child. A system is in place for the caregiver to share information about the child's day. The caregiver meets with parents at least once a year to share child's physical, social, intellectual and emotional growth.
- Consistent care — Consistent care from a sensitive, responsive caregiver is the foundation for healthy development, building the child's security, confidence and a sense of well-being. The presence of a regular caregiver and minimal turnover in staff are essential elements of high quality child care.
- Health and safety — Children's healthy development depends on safe and positive experiences during the first few years of life. Working during the first few years of a child life can be a tough choice to make, however choosing quality child care that focuses on health and safety can help ease that anxiety. Here are some tips on choosing a healthy and safe place for your child.