| Tips For Evaluating a caregiver | |
| Did you feel comfortable with the person who will take care of your child? | |
| Did you feel that your needs were understood and respected? | |
| Is the facility licensed and operating within the standards? | |
| Is it close to work or home? | |
| Do its days and hours of operation fit my schedule? | |
| What is the child-to-caregiver ratio? | |
| How much does it cost? Can I afford it? | |
| Did the center staff and teachers convey warmth and a sincere interest in you and your child? | |
| Did you feel that you could speak openly and honestly about questions or concerns with the Center Director? | |
| Tips For Evaluating a Camp Program | |
| Did you feel comfortable with the person who will take care of your child? | |
| Did you feel that your needs were understood and respected? | |
| Is the facility licensed and operating within the standards? | |
| Is it close to work or home? | |
| Do its days and hours of operation fit my schedule? | |
| What is the camper-counselor ratio and what are the characteristics of most of the staff?
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| What is the total cost of the camp including extras? Can I afford it? | |
| Did the center staff and teachers convey warmth and a sincere interest in you and your child? | |
| Did you feel that you could speak openly and honestly about questions or concerns with the Camp Director? | |
| What are the camp's goals and philosophy? | |
| What facilities does the camp have and how convenient are they for campers to get to? | |
| What kind of staff training is provided? | |
| How does the camp transport campers on field trips? | |
| What are the sleeping arrangements and what toilet and shower facilities exist? | |
| What is the swimming instruction program like? | |
| How does the camp ensure the safety and security of its campers? | |
| Are meals included? Or does child have to brown bag? | |
| What medical facilities are available and what medical staff is on campus? | |
| Is there a refund policy if the camper leaves early?
What happens when the weather is bad? | |
| How does the camp program meet individual needs and differences? | |
| What kind of insurance coverage is there? | |
| Does the camp offer early drop-off or late pick-up for working parents? | |
| Questions About The Setting | |
| Is it safe? No sharp edges, no staircases without railings? | |
| Are objects small enough to be swallowed, kept out of reach? | |
| Is there a first aid kit available? Is a fire extinguisher available? | |
| Are emergency numbers posted?
Is it clean? Toys and books may be out of place - after all, children play here, - but it shouldn't be dirty. | |
| Is it attractive? Is this a place in which my child will feel comfortable? | |
| Is there space for both active and quiet play? | |
| Is there ample space for infants and toddlers to crawl, climb, and play? | |
| Did the center staff and teachers convey warmth and a sincere interest in you and your child? | |
| Is there enough heat, light and ventilation? | |
| Is there a safe outdoor play area? | |
| Do I feel that my child will be safe here? | |
| Questions About The Group Size | |
| Will my child get enough attention? | |
| Will my child be comfortable in this size group? | |
| How many caregivers will work with my child's group? | |
| Questions About The Caregiver | |
| Is the caregiver warm, friendly, and supportive? | |
| Does the caregiver seem to know and respond to each child as an individual? | |
| Does the caregiver share my feelings about what is important for children? What are the rules? How are children disciplined? | |
| What are the caregiver's qualifications? | |
| How long has the caregiver been at this location? | |
| Is the person I select to care for my child the one who will spend time with my child? | |
| Questions About The Activities | |
| Will the activities allow my child to develop bonds with the adults and children? Will my child learn new skills? | |
| Will my child play in doors and out doors?
Will there be variety in my children's play? | |
| What is the daily routine? Does it provide for healthy snacks and meals? Naps or rest time? Trips or special activities? Artistic expression? Reading and story telling? | |
| Are infants and toddlers held, talked with and played with? | |
| Parental Involvement | |
| Are caregivers available for daily chats with parents? | |
| Do the caregivers encourage parents to visit the program? | |
| Does the home or center provide parent meetings? | |
| Does the home or center have information on child development available? | |
| Do caregivers provide daily reports on infants and toddlers eating, napping, elimination and medication? | |
| Does the home or center distribute written policies? | |