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A Guide to Early Education Programs in WH

Choosing a Quality Early Childhood Program

Childcare

Quality childcare can make a big difference in the future of your child, your community and even the world. Choosing quality care is important. It can help build a child’s confidence, curiosity and language skills. It can help a child share and enjoy learning.
 

When choosing a child care provider, there are several items to consider, including location, convenience, referrals from friends, family and your community. There are also many websites and resources available to help you choose quality childcare on the Internet.

  • Begin by visiting several childcare home providers or centers.
  • As you observe a homecare provider or a center, look at the whole facility – inside and out. See every room your child will use.
  • On each visit, think about your first impression. But don’t stop there. You should always visit a home or center more than once. And stay as long as possible so you can get a good feel for what the care will be like for your child.
  • Once you decide that a childcare provider will work for you, register your child. Many programs require registration a year before your child will enter the program, usually in the fall or winter.

Why Should I Send My Child to Preschool?

Children who attend a quality preschool, nursery, childcare center or family childcare before starting kindergarten enter school with a jump-start. Preschool offers children practice in becoming a group member, getting along with others and learning through planned activities that are age appropriate and fun.

When to Begin Looking

Start now! If you plan on sending your child to preschool, you should begin looking when your child turns two years old. Most preschools start registration between November-January for the following school year, so it’s important to think ahead.

 

1  National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies, Child Care Aware initiative, 2001, 1-800-424-2246, www.childcareaware.org

 

2 “Ready or Not - A Parents Guide to School Readiness, Prenatal to Age Five, Connecticut Commission on Children”