 "The truth needs so little rehearsal."
Sometimes families who are searching for child care ask "Can't you just tell me which is the best program?" Or "Where would you place YOUR child?" The answer is always "Our job at APPLES is to help you figure out which program is best for YOUR family and YOUR child. We can refer you to programs based on your family needs, but we cannot recommend any one program." That answer is a requirement of our contract to operate a child care resource and referral service. Then we offer a series of questions that parents can ask as they compare programs and make decisions. The first set of questions helps them get clear about their child's and family's needs and preferences. Examples include: - Do I need a flexible care schedule or will I pick up and drop off at the same times every day?
- Do I know what type of care setting (family child care, a center, Head Start, etc.) will be best for my child or do I need more information?
- Am I eligible for a child care subsidy?
- Do we prefer mixed ages or all the children the same age as my child?
The second set of questions helps compare family needs and preferences to observations of different child care programs. - Do you encourage parent involvement?
- What is your work and professional development experience?
- Are you willing to adapt your program for a child needing extra help?
- What happens when my child has a cold?
Families often want to talk about their worries and expectations related to the child care search process. Listening carefully and addressing concerns, you have a good chance of forming a partnership that works for you, the child, and the family. Stay tuned in November for a new I-Care series about resources to help you manage children's challenging behaviors.
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