Sand Buddies

Fun in the Sun!

Spiders

We seem to have quite a few spiders roaming around lately. I suspect that they, not unlike us, are trying to escape the heat. Last year my daughter was bitten. We were somewhat lucky because, although it was a painful and red bite, it turned out not to be poisonous. She was bitten by a Wolf spider. To get a printable chart, like the one to the left CLICK HERE. For more information about spiders in the area CLICK HERE for the Poison Control site. When in doubt call Poison Control @: 1-800-222-1222

Tips When Choosing Child Care

Parents:
When choosing child care don't be afraid to ask questions!

Your child's day...

1. Is there a daily schedule?
2. What is the meal system (do I have to bring or does the Provider supply)?
3. Where will my child sleep?
4. What is the sleep policy (are non-resting children accomodated; what is the resting philosophy)?
5. What types of activities are available?
6. What is the philosophy of the child care (is it teacher directed or child directed or somewhere inbetween?) BTW, both are very good, but one might be a better fit for an individual, (and their family philosophies regarding child education), than others.
7. Is there an emergency plan that you feel comfortable with?
8. Are the activities age appropriate, are the structures and toys free from damage?
9. Does the family home or center meet all of the criteria to remain licensed?
10. (plugs covered, current (and correct) CPR and First Aid Certification, no poisionous plants in yards, fences safe, windows free from breakage, walls free from cracked paint, all poisonous materials stored in locked cabinets or above 5ft (I think 6ft is better). If you have questions you can call licensing @ (916) 875-2808 and ask for the worker of the day.

Your Provider....

1. What is the Philosophy of the center or family home? (Views on toilet learning, family communication, learning, meal times, etc). Is it similar to yours?
2. Is there a posted curriculum?
3. How often do children partake in a scheduled curriculum, if at all?
4. What is the education level of the teacher/provider? (BTW, just because a person has a degree in math or english, it does not necessarily mean that they have the temperment to work with children; OBSERVE!)

Hygene...

1. What is your initial feeling of the overall apperance of the site. (If a site is in disorder, it could mean that in an emergency they might not be able to find your child's file or other important paper work).
2. Is the site overly dirty? (There will be a certain amout of messiness because a good provider wants the children to become heavily involved in play. However mold, and lots of dust/cobwebs could be health issues, esp. for children with asthma or alergies).
3. Does the site have a posted toy cleaning and sanitation plan? (are mats, plastic and fabric toys and structures routinely washed and sanitized on a schedule?)
4. What is the written health policy?
5. How often are hands washed? (Does provider have paper or individual towels or one towel for everyone?)
6. Does the provider look clean? (clean hands - when not involved in projects, neat appearance?)

Dangers...

1. What are the policies for field trips (how many adults to children)?
2. what are the proceedures for serious medical treatment?
3. Does your provider carry Liability insurance for the child care and Liability auto insurance? If not are you comfortable with this?

These are some of the questions Parents/families can ask providers. I always tell parents that if they are uncomfortable for any reason to trust their instincts and keep searching until they have the right match.

I will be posting on what providers can do to protect themselves and how to inteview to find a good parent/provider fit. HINT: alot of it has to do with the above questions.

This Week