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PSA #1 - The kind of care a child receives will make a difference in his or her life. Choosing the right child care is an important decision for a parent. If you are looking for child care, take time to visit more than one before you decide. Observe the caregiver with the children, ask lots of questions, and get references from parents of other children.
The Pennsylvania 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 - When searching for child care for your child, look for a caregiver who is warm, loving, and flexible. Find out if she has training and experience with children the same age as your child. Is the program is certified by the state? If not, why not? See if there are enough caregivers for the number of children.
The Pennsylvania 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 - Parents, when looking for child care, see if there are a variety of activities for your child to do each day and the daily schedule posted. Are there large areas for play? Make sure there is daily outdoor play time. The playthings, equipment, and materials need to be right for the children's ages.
The Pennsylvania 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.
Top Of PagePSA #4 - Is your child's child care safe? Does it have working smoke detectors in areas where care is provided? Cleaning materials need to be stored in locked cabinets away from food. Is there a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher? Toys and play equipment should be in good repair.
The Pennsylvania 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 - Parents, when looking for child care for your child, go outside to see the outdoor play area. Check the play equipment for rough edges or rust. Does the area have a fence or a natural barrier? See if there is enough room for children to run and play safely.
The Pennslvania 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 - Parents and child care providers can go to the Better Kid Care Web site at www.betterkidcare.psu.edu for information about child care and children's issues. Providers can get training on the Web or find educational materials. There are links to other sites with information about children, including the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare site that can be found at www.dpw.state.us/Child/.
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