What is Quality Childcare?
How Do You Find Quality Care?
Being An Effective Childcare Parent
How to Contact Us
What is Quality Childcare?
Childcare should support a child's emotional, social, intellectual and physical well being. Quality childcare is not simply "babysitting".
Caregivers are the key to quality childcare. They should understand how children learn and grow, be affectionate and responsive as well as open and informative, provide a stable and stimulating environment, seek out community resources and support, and be willing to develop common goals.
Quality childcare settings have common characteristics, such as a clean, safe, caring, secure environment, a low number of children per adult, space for quiet and active times both indoors and outdoors, a balance of interesting and stimulating activities, flexible yet predictable daily routine, a variety of toys and equipment, and nutritious meals and snacks.
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How Do You Find Quality Care?
First, identify your needs and priorities. Consider your child's age, and whether or not you have more than one child requiring care. Are you eligible for a government subsidy? What fee can you afford? Do you prefer centre based childcare or home childcare? What hours do you require care and in what location?
Provincial and local childcare offices can offer guidance. Community information services can be invaluable. It is also helpful to talk to neighbours and friends who use childcare. Just give yourself plenty of time and find care that suits you and your child. Once you have a list of caregivers and childcare centres, it is time to start phone interviews. Jot down potential questions and be sure they are answered to your satisfaction. Visiting the childcare centres and home based childcare centres is the next step. Look around and listen. Is this a quality childcare setting? Would you feel comfortable with your child spending time here?
The relationship between yourself and the caregiver is very important. It should be one of mutual respect and co-operation. Ask all relevant questions during the interview, such as hours, fees, sick policies, vacation policies and the involvement of parents. Check references before you make a final decision, then write a letter of agreement concerning policies discussed to prevent and misunderstandings in the future.
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Being An Effective Childcare Parent
A parent's responsibility does not end with finding childcare. The three-way relationship between the parent, caregiver and child requires ongoing communication. Take time to hear about your child's day. Agree on mutual expectations. Voice concerns, express appreciation, and live up to the agreement made for the benefit of your child.
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How to Contact Us
Municipality of Chatham-Kent
Children's Services
435 Grand Ave West
PO Box 1230
Chatham, ON
N7M 5L8
(519) 351-8573
CKchildcare@chatham-kent.ca
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