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?
- 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 when choosing a childcare facility.
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 restroom 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
What are some ways to build a bond with a new baby?
Touch, cuddle and hold your infant. These actions let 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. It 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-Up visit 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
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
There are many benefits of breastfeeding, 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)
- Breastfeeding helps you lose the pregnancy weight
- Breastfeeding is free
- Breast milk does not stain clothes
- Studies show that the longer you breastfeed, the lower the risk of osteoporosis and some cancers.