Making a decision about which child care or preschool program is best for your child is a crucial decision in your child’s first step in the life long learning process.
Staff is Key! Visit the prospective school and Observe the teachers interactions with children. How are teachers interacting with children? You should see teachers in engaged conversations with children at their eye level, either sitting on the floor or with them in low child size chairs.
You should see a lot of eye contact, just as you would in a meaningful interaction between adults. Another important aspect to observe is if there is active listening and two way conversations occurring on the part of the teacher and child, as opposed to the teacher being pre-occupied or distracted with other events in the room. Active listening shows an interest in the child and places a value on what the child is saying.
Interactions should be warm and friendly, with gently encouraging tone of voice.
Good teachers are energetic, patient, and enthusiastic about the children, the activity and the environment. They look for teachable moments, whether it is a butterfly going by or a leave falling or a chance to teach positive social interaction.
Ask about the longevity of teachers in the program. Happy teachers not only provide stability for children but in most cases mean they like their job! Teacher’s should be organized and prepared and give children an opportunity throughout the day to choose activities.
Finally you should see happy faces and lots of smiles on the part of the teacher and the child, an enjoyment of life and the experiences they encounter together. Listen for “Happy” sounds coming from all the classrooms.
For more information on this topic or to obtain a copy of a free check list you can use as you visit child care centers, call or visit Kathy Feigley at Kangaroo Kids Child Care and Learning Center, 1047 Route 28 Branchburg, 908-231-7800 or email staff@kangarookidschildcare.comor connect with Kathy on Kangaroo Kids LinkedIn Page or Like Kangaroo Kids Child Care Facebookpage. Watch for more things to look for in quality programs for young children in future posts.
