Public Service Announcements
October 2004
CHILD CARE TIPS FOR PARENTS
PSA #1
- Before deciding on a child care program for your child, find
out about the program. Parents need to know what to expect and be prepared.
Visit a program more than once and at different times of the day. Ask
lots of questions and spend time looking around.
The Penns State 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
- When deciding on a child care program for your child, find
out what the cost is and see if it fits your budget. Will you be expected
to pay when your child is not there? Many programs charge to hold a child’s
place. Find out if payment is due at the beginning or end of the week.
Check on vacation policies.
The Penn State 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 -Before
enrolling your child in a child care program, check to see what hours
the care is available. Find out what items you are expected to provide,
such as meals for your child, extra clothing, diapers, etc. How will you
find out about your child’s day and other child care happenings?
Caregivers communicate with parents through newsletters, bulletin boards,
verbal updates, or a combination of things.
The Penn State 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
- Good child care programs have time scheduled for outdoor
play every day. Children thrive with active play and fresh air. Check
whether your child’s program includes outdoor play. Children can
play outside in all but the most extreme weather if they are dressed properly.
Always have an extra set of your child’s clothes, including underwear
and socks, at child care
The Penn State 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 -
If your child care does not have a place for outdoor play, daily walks
and outings to a nearby park or playground are ways for children to be
outdoors. These activities take planning and enough adult supervision
to make them safe and fun for children.
The Penn State 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
-Are you looking for new snack ideas for your children? Do
you need some activities to keep them busy this summer? Look on the Internet
for the Better Kid Care Web site at for information about children and
child care. There are links to other Web sites, including the Pennsylvania
Department of Public Welfare site at
www.dpw.state.pa.us/Child/
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
