Group child care facilities usually offer a variety of educational
programs and activities. Although emphasis varies between facilities, look for
one with the following characteristics:
- There is an organized daily program offering
appropriate activities to match the varying ages and developmental levels of
the children. Activities should include:
- Inside and outside play.
- Group
and individual play.
- Imaginative and structured
play.
- Music, dancing, marching, and playing musical
instruments.
- Quiet times for children to rest.
- There is enough space for all the children,
including areas for quiet activities such as reading, space for group
activities, and outside play areas.
- There is equipment that works
and there are enough supplies (such as toys, puzzles, and books) and materials
(such as clay, sand, and paint) for everyone. Toys should be appropriate for
the children's ages.
- Any plants, animals, or other natural objects
(such as bark, leaves, and rocks) that are available for children to play with
should be safe.
