Types early childcare programs

Where once a parent had to choose between day care in hopes that their child would learn something educational in the midst, or a Montessori school that cost an arm and a leg to attend, parents now have the option of several less expensive, yet equally qualified programs.

With education standards increasing to meet the demands of a global learning community, every parent is looking to give their child the edge.

Some do this through private instruction, extra classes once enrolled in school, and honors and advanced placement programs in the higher grade levels. All of these things are good, but scientifically speaking, it is projected that children aged absorb and retain more information at this age than at any other time in their life. It makes sense then that surveying the options for types of early childhood programs for your child is a wise choice.

Given the mass number of programs available , it is important that you do the needed research to find a program that is right you for your child. For every legitimate program, there are two scams designed to take your money while promising you amazing results. If you are wise and take careful time studying the different programs, you will be sure to find the program that is best for you. You may want to start by knowing the different terms associated with and that define different types of early childhood programs.

The most common types of early childhood programs that can fit most budgets are public preschool, private religious-based preschools, and Head Start programs.

For the average person, the most affordable option for early childhood programs are those in the public sector. Often times, you will have to search for a program longer in order to find the correct one for you, as many of these programs are state-funded and primarily aid low-income families first. Child care centers that must be either licensed by the state or exempt from licensing. Although licensing does not ensure quality, it does set minimum health, safety and training standards that centers must maintain.

Families may choose center based care because they believe that a larger setting, several caregivers and state inspections make programs safer for their children. They may also believe that more staff, space, equipment, toys and structured activities provide a better learning environment for their children. Providers that offer care for children in their home.

In St. Lucie County, family child care homes are either registered or licensed and only licensed homes are inspected prior to receiving a license. Families sometimes choose a family child care home because they prefer a home environment for their child. They prefer relating to a single caregiver and believe children are healthier, happier and more secure in a smaller group.

To learn more about what you should look for and questions you should ask when you are looking for a high-quality program use this tool. Child Care Options. You want the best for your child. Children need care that keeps them safe, healthy, and learning. You will also find some tips and tools to help make your child care choice easier.

Here are some examples of topics covered by basic licensing regulations: Safety in the building and physical environment The number of children and child care providers on site Preventing the spread of infectious diseases Staff qualifications and training Not all child care providers are required to be licensed, so it is important to check to see if the child care program you are considering is licensed.

In addition, there are often requirements that providers must meet in order to receive public funding. There are many sources of public funding, but two of the biggest are Head Start and the Child Care and Development Fund. If you need assistance with child care, these programs may be able to help you with free or low-cost care and early education. Click here to learn more about child care financial assistance.

Finally, many states have additional child care quality standards. These types of quality standards are often part of a state or community quality rating and improvement system QRIS.

These quality rating and improvement systems award child care programs with stars or other symbols for rating levels to indicate higher quality. Looking for a higher rating is a great way to find high quality care.

Check to see if your state operates a quality rating and improvement system and if the providers you are considering are part of it. Click here to learn more about what is available in your state.