Choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions you will ever make for your
child. Research increasingly tells us that the first years of a child’s life are critical to shaping their future health and development. At New Horizon Academy, they understand that high-quality childcare and education in the early years can make a positive difference in your child’s future. By making a thoughtful decision now, you can help your child develop the skills needed to be successful in school.
To help you make the best decision for your child, researchers have identified quality
indicators with information on what to look for and ask about to find out if the program
you are considering will be a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment for your
child. Use our handy checklist to assist you in finding the best program for your family.
Quality Childcare Checklist
Here are a few tips to help you make this important decision:
Location, Location, Location
Select a location that best fits the needs of your family. Keep in mind you will visit the childcare center twice a day, every day. So, select a school that is near your home or one that is on your way to work. Some families prefer to select a childcare center near their home, while others prefer a daycare center near their work or on their commute to work. How long do you want your child to be in the car? If you have early meetings, would being closer to home be more convenient for your family? Create a plan that is best for you.
Determine What Is Most Important to Your Family
Take time to identify what are the most important features for your family. Whether it is a healthy and safe environment, or you want your child to be well-prepared for school, make a list and look for those qualities when you tour potential childcare centers. Use the New
Horizon Academy Checklist to help you get started here.
Tour the Childcare Center
It is important to visit daycare centers to find the one that is best for your family.
- Meet the director, visit the classroom where your child will spend their day
- Check out the lesson plans to see what your child will learn
- Review the menu, and look for nutritious food items, not just kid-friendly food items
- Observe the teacher and see how they respond to the children
- Check out what the children are doing, and examine the cleanliness and organization of the classroom
- Determine if the center is accredited and ask about their licensing record
- Research how they communicate with families, and finally, strive to get an overall feeling and understanding of the school.
Trust Your Instincts
You are the expert on what is best for you, your child, and your family. Touring schools provides you with insights into what childcare centers have to offer, and one will feel right for your family. You want a place where you feel welcomed, understood, appreciated, and supported as you navigate child-rearing. One that will be your partner in helping your child grow to their fullest potential.
New Horizon Academy believes the best place for your child is with them, but whatever decision your family makes about early care and education, it is vital that your child’s first learning experiences be of the highest quality.
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