Determining the Appropriate Daycare/Preschool

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2000 nearly half of all 3–4year olds were attending daycare and preschool programs, an increase from only 16% 10 years earlier. With a wider variety of options for daycare and preschools, parents confront the challenge of determining which program is most appropriate for their children and family. Among the factors that parents must consider include the hours of operation (is the daycare or preschool open early in the morning and available into the early evening), cost, the activities or stimulation the center provides, the range of activities, the curriculum, and the educational philosophy if the daycare or preschool is also licensed.

Accreditation and licensure. In addition to state licensing boards, the only national accrediting body is the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). NAEYC sets national standards, and to be accredited by NAEYC the daycare or preschool must meet those standards.

We encourage parents to make sure the daycare or preschool program holds the NAEYC accreditation. A list of accredited schools can be found at the NAEYC website (see “Resources” at the end of the handout).
Basic features. In addition to NAEYC accreditation, there are some basic standards that all daycare and preschool programs should meet, regardless of the type of program they offer. Parents should look for programs that:

• Provide a stimulating and safe environment
• Meet the child’s emotional, social, intellectual, and physical needs
• Promote the child’s social development with other children and adults
• Respect and encourage diversity while helping the child achieve a positive self-concept
• Promote thinking skills and problem-solving skills

Other issues to consider. There are other matters that you should consider. For instance, are there rules about who is allowed to pick up the child? Do the teachers and staff have CPR certification? What is the teacher’s educational background and experience? What are the program’s health policies?

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