Additional Child Care Programs

Parent Cooperatives

Run by parents who wish to take part in their children’s preschool experience.

Parents are responsible for making rules, so teachers have less control.

However, it frees teachers up for more time with the children.

Parents usually work as teacher’s aides.

Lab Schools

Located on a campus. Purpose is to train future teachers and serve as a

place for research.

High School Programs

These also train future teachers. Usually a preschool setting. Supervised by the classroom teachers Students teach and observe children. Usually operates 2 or 3 days a week. Usually no cost to parents.

Sponsorship of Early Childhood Centers

Public- funded by federal, state, or local governments.

Some funds come through school districts and social service agencies.

What are some examples?

Sponsorship (cont.)

Private- may be operated by a church, hospital, or charitable organization.

Many are non-profit. Employer- this helps workers balance work and

family. Some companies provide care on site, others have

contracts with child care chains.

Employer Sponsored Child Care Employees can spend breaks and lunch with their

children. Some employees commute a long distance and

can’t take advantage of this. Some employers offer discounts for employees to

go to certain centers. Some companies provide a referral service to

match parent needs with an appropriate center.

Selecting a Program Parents want their kids to be safe and comfortable (environment,

nutrition) Cost and location are important. Quality of the program (program goals, activities, and schedules) Experience and training of staff Staff turnover rates Lots of security Pop in visits Center Accreditation

Center Accreditation

This certifies that a set of standards has been met by the child care center.

To be eligible, centers must conduct a self-study. Helps assist parents in search for high quality care.

Adult-Child Ratios Age 6 weeks to 1 year 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 5 years 5 to 6 years

Ratios 1 adult to 3 children 1 adult to 5 children 1 adult to 6 children 1 adult to 8 children 1 adult to 10 children