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		Early Childhood Care: What You Need to Know By Maria Bailey, Co-founder of BlueSuitMom.com As parents, it’s our job to raise healthy, well-adjusted children so they have bright and productive futures. However, most parents recognize the huge role that other caregivers and outside influences have on children. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and one of the most important citizens in that village is the early child care provider. So how do you choose the right village, or the program, that’s right for you and your child? First, it’s important to understand the benefits that consistent early childhood care can provide to all members of the family. Children go through critical stages of development in their earliest years, and consistent, high-quality care can have long-lasting effects on the overall development of your child, while providing you with the security of knowing they are in a safe and nurturing environment. In addition to being loved and cared for, it’s important to select a child care provider who will partner with your family to ensure your child gets the best start in the following areas: Social and Emotional Development Having your child attend the same child care facility allows him or her to develop relationships with adults and children in a familiar, caring environment, which provides a sense of security. Children who experience consistent care are more likely to participate in learning opportunities and are less likely to demonstrate aggressive behaviors. Cognitive Development Children enrolled in a high-quality early child care education program that provides developmentally appropriate curriculum are more likely to develop critical cognitive skills at the appropriate age. Following consistent curricula helps children build on their existing skills and knowledge to help them meet their developmental milestones. Language Development Children who are secure in their environment and with the people around them are more likely to engage in frequent, age-appropriate conversation. Through activities such as daily group discussions, fingerplays, songs, and read-alouds, children develop the fundamental language skills they will continue to build on throughout their lifetimes. There are many quality child care programs out there, and it can be difficult to decide where to enroll your child. When touring a potential facility, make sure you observe the following: The teachers and staff really listen and care. The caregiver-to-child ratio gives your child plenty of individual attention. The center offers a research-based program that fosters confidence, self-esteem, and a love of learning. There’s a good balance of social, emotional, physical, and intellectual learning opportunities. Playgrounds, classrooms, and the entrance to the building are clean and safe. You’ll get daily communication—both verbal and written—about your child’s activities. You’re encouraged to drop in at any time to see your child. Teachers meet with you regularly to share your child’s progress. References from other families are immediately available. If you follow the recommendations above, enrolling your child in a quality early child care program can be a great move for the entire family. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your child is in a nurturing and thriving environment—learning, growing, and making friends to last a lifetime. To stock up on more information about choosing the right child care center for your family, including detailed checklists for programs from infant up to school age, visit KinderCare.com. For more than 40 years, KinderCare has been providing parents with the peace of mind they need to feel confident in their childcare choices. Through age-appropriate curriculum, customized experiences, and overall school preparedness, KinderCare celebrates a balanced, holistic approach to child care across academic, social, emotional, and physical development.		Search BlueSuitMom.com    F a m i l y   F o c u s • Join BlueSuitMom on   Facebook • Tools and Checklists • Baby Name Database • Family Freebies • Special Events • Your Baby Today • Fun Family Activities • Work and Family Balance • Family Archive • Sign Up For Our Newsletter Ask an Expert • Smart Mom Solutions • Parenting Expert • Professional Organizer • Pediatrician • Emotional Wellness • Memory & Photo Organizer    P o l l  How often do you read blogs? Once a week 2-4 times a week Daily Never View results
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