STEPS TO FINDING QUALITY CARE

Choose Wisely
Choosing an early learning program for your child is one of the most important and difficult decisions you will ever make. This brochure is designed to help you make choices about quality programs to find a good match for you and your child. A good setting is one that provides the environment and experiences your child needs to learn new skills and develop socially. Look for a positive and caring relationship between teachers and children. Your communications with the teacher should feel comfortable and trusting. The environment should be cheerful and above all, safe. The program should include experiences and activities you consider important. Ultimately, you want to choose a program that fits your ideas about parenting and learning, where your child will be safe and happy.

Do Your Research
It’s a good idea to visit and compare at least three early learning settings. Make appointments with prospective programs and, if possible, take your child with you on the visit. Plan to spend at least 30 minutes visiting each site. If possible, drop by for a second visit on another day. Use the Quality Checklist included with this brochure for guidance on what to look for during your visit. Depending on your particular needs, you will likely have some additional questions of your own.

Be a Smart Shopper
Program staff should be caring, qualified and well organized. Their facility license should be current and they should provide you with written policies and procedures regarding fees, meals, discipline, illness, communicable diseases, and emergencies. beyond these basics, staff should be able to share with you the program philosophy on how children learn and the daily activities children will participate in. This information will help you make decisions on whether a program is a good fit for you and your child. It is important to visit many play areas within the program, not just where your child will first be placed. You want to be sure you will be happy with your child’s entire experience within the program.

Make an Informed Decision
Like any parent, your first concerns are for the safety, health and welfare of your child. Every program will have positive features, but you must decide which things are most important for you and your child, and prioritize accordingly. Before making a final decision, check the state’s child care licensing website at www.myflorida.com/childcare for inspection information about any licensed program you are considering choosing.

Use Child Care Resource and Referral Services
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) is a service provided by the Early learning Coalition. CCR&R is dedicated to helping families find answers to their questions regarding how to identify quality early learning programs and how to locate a provider that meets your family’s needs. You may contact your local CCR&R office at 772-595-6363 where trained staff can provide you with referrals to programs that are customized to meet your family’s needs, as well as referrals to other services in your community.