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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when looking at childcare facilities?

Choosing a childcare facility is one of the most important decisions that you make for your child. Studies show that there is a link between high quality child care and school readiness. Children from high quality centers enter kindergarten more prepared for school and seem to do well past kindergarten.Things to look for include:

  • Are the children involved in activities and happy?
  • Is the caregiver friendly, warm, calm, and patient?
  • Is the caregiver talking and interacting with children on their level?
  • Is the indoor classroom well equipped and the outdoor area fenced in?
  • Are you allowed to drop in to see your child at any time without notice (open door policy)?
  • Is the environment clean and safe (all chemicals locked up, safety plugs on outlets and no exposed cords?
  • Does the teacher know first aid and CPR?
  • What are the rates and schedule for the facility

These are just a few of the things that you should look for. Contact the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County for a FREE copy of "Choosing Quality Child Care."

 

What does my child need to know before entering Kindergarten?

A child's success in school depends on many of the skills that he/she has learned by age six. A good way to prepare your child for kindergarten is by enrolling them in a school readiness program. School readiness means your child has the skills needed to be successful in school. Some of these skills are:

  • They know their full name
  • Able to use a rest room without help
  • Able to sit and listen
  • Able to follow directions
  • Able to hold and use pencils, crayons and scissors
  • Know some letters, numbers, and colors
For a FREE Kindergarten Readiness Book, please call the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County.

What are some activities that I can do with my children to help prepare them for school?

Remember that the parent is the child's first teacher. The Sunrise Skill Builders book has information on children from birth to five years of age.
For a FREE  "Sunrise Skill Builders" Book please contact the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County. It is a must have resource and it is FREE.

What are some ways to build a bond with a new baby?

Touch, cuddle, and hold your infant. This lets the baby know that you are there and love him/her. Also help the infant feel safe and secure by responding to needs, staying calm, and reassuring him/her when frightened. This builds trust between parents and an infant, and bonding will occur naturally. Remember you cannot spoil a newborn infant.

By 3 months of age, what should my baby be doing?

Remember, all children develop at different rates and during your baby's Well Check Ups is a good time to ask questions or talk about your concerns with the doctor. Some of the skills that babies should be accruing by 3 months are:

  • Turning head toward lights and bright colors
  • Respond to loud sounds by crying or being startled
  • Grasp objects
  • Smile back at you
  • Wiggle and kick their arms and legs
  • Make cooing sounds
For more information call the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County for a FREE "Sunrise Skill Builder" booklet.

What are the benefits of breast-feeding?

There are many benefits to breast-feeding, for both baby and mother. Some benefits for baby are:
  • Breast milk is the perfect nutrition for baby
  • It gives the baby additional protection against some illnesses (colds, ear infections)
  • It promotes bonding between mother and baby
  • It decreases the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)
  • Baby has fewer allergies and less colic
Some benefits for Mom are:
  • It promotes bonding between mother and infant
  • Feedings are quick and easy (especially at night time)
  • Breast feeding helps you lose the pregnancy weight
  • Breast feeding is free
  • Breast milk does not stain clothes
  • Studies show that the longer you breastfeed the lower the risk of osteoporosis and some cancers.