Ece205: Introduction to Child Development - Choosing a Preschool

Choosing a Preschool

Linda Randolph

ECE205: Introduction to Child Development

Instructor: Carrie Phillips

April 30, 2013

Choosing a Preschool

For parents finding the right child care environment is very important because they must make sure that the child care environment is the key to their child's learning and development and choosing the right provider takes careful observation. Parents only want what is best for their child and having their child in the right environment is the most important step.

Three things she should look for in a childcare environment that supports his development is: 1. Does the environment look safe, clean, organized and child proofed, 2. Is there learning going on all around, are children eager to learn and interact with their peers and care providers. 3. Watch for early childhood care providers who really seem to know and like children, and treat the children with respect. Make sure there are enough care providers to safely handle the number of children.

It is important to visit the child care facility months before your child will need care, visit the facility more than one time to get basic information and to observe to get an idea of how the program is operated. A quality child care environment observes children in settings and recognizes where each child is in their development to provide appropriate environments, materials, and activities, they understand that all children progress along the developmental stages but each child reaches these stages in their own pace. A quality child care environment recognizes the importance of early intervention. When they recognize possible delays, they will communicate and discuss observations with the family and work together to find resources to support the child's development, they are child-centered and ready for active learning, and understand the challenge for educators is to think beyond decorating and consider how walls can be used effectively, they also plan for children's learning (child development council). Child care facilities that are accredited by NAEYC are good child care facilities because they have worked hard for that achievement and are improving their programs to provide the best possible educational opportunities for children.

Three factors that could contribute to atypical development at this age: 1. Drug abuse during pregnancy will have an effect on the development, 2. Smoking can make children less responsive, more sluggish and fussier. 3. Alcohol can cause developmental delays, retardation, hyperactivity, and deficiencies in physical development, it can cause learning and socialization problems (Children's Medical Services).

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