Public Service Announcements
October 2002
CHILD CARE TIPS FOR PARENTS
PSA #1 - Choosing the right child care for
your child is an important decision. If you are searching for child care,
consider whether your child will do better in a home or center program.
Find out if the program, if required, is registered or licensed by the
state. Visit several programs before you decide.
The Penn 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.
PSA #2 - A key to good child care is a caregiver
who is warm, loving, and flexible. She is trained and experienced. When
you visit a program, see if the children are busy and happy. Does the
caregiver take time to talk with the children? Does she get down to the
children’s eye-level while talking with them and doing activities?
The Penn 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.
PSA #3 - A good child care program will
have a variety of activities for children each day. There will be a safe
outdoor area for play. Outdoor activities will be scheduled every day,
weather permitting. Parents are welcome to visit at all times, unannounced!
The Penn 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.
PSA #4 -Parents, do you feel as if you
are part of your child’s child care program? Do you know what is
going on all day? It is important for you to be involved. Studies have
proven when parents take time to find out what their child’s program
is like and show they expect quality care, the level of care improves.
The Penn 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.
PSA #5 -To keep involved in your child’s
child care program, regular communication with the caregiver is essential.
Take time to talk and find out what is happening. Tell the provider about
anything in your child’s life that may affect behavior. Please note
that child care providers must keep all information about children and
families confidential.
Busy caregivers are often looking for new ideas. The Penn 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.
PSA #6 - For parents wanting to learn more
about children’s issues, child care providers needing training,
and employers, there is information on the Penn State Cooperative Extension
Better Kid Care Web site. There are also links to other sites. Go to
www.betterkidcare.psu.edu
for new ideas and information. The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare
has child care information for families on its Web site at
www.childcare/state.pa.us.
Nancy Wilson, Better Kid Care Program Specialist
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
October 2002
