March 2004

The Best For Your Child

Children need affection, security, attention, and good care. Working parents should choose a child care program that provides these things. These are things found in good child care programs:

Parents are welcome to visit any time, unannounced.
Caregivers are warm, friendly, energetic, and experienced working with children.
The program is registered or licensed with the state, if required.
The home or center is bright, cheery, and clean.
There are areas large enough for active play, indoors and outdoors.
The daily schedule and emergency numbers are posted.
Healthy, nutritious meals and snacks are served.
There is a place for naps and quiet activities.
Toys, play equipment, and materials are clean, safe, and in good repair.
Books and toys are stored where children can reach them.

The Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Better Kid Care Program has information on children's issues for early childhood educators, child care providers, and parents on the Better Kid Care Web site at: www.betterkidcare.psu.edu

Safety Tips For Child Care Outings

Safety should be a prime concern in child care programs. Extra precautions are important when children go on an outing, such as a nature walk or a walk around the block. Parents, make sure that your child's caregiver follows these guidelines:

There are enough adults to supervise children.
Each adult is assigned a specific, small group of children.
Procedures and safety policies are explained clearly to everyone, adults and children, before going out.
Adults count children in their group before leaving, during the outing, and at the end.
The caregiver brings along emergency information, a first aid kit, and drinking water.

- # -
Nancy Wilson, Better Kid Care Program Assistant
Penn State Better Kid Care Program
253 Easterly Parkway
State College, PA 16801
e-mail: naw6@psu.edu
Phone: 814-863-5880
Fax: 814-865-7893