Understanding The Meaning of Quality Child Care

To understand how your child will receive quality child care, you need to be aware of how certain factors complement each other. It is not just a matter of the surroundings or who is more fit to offer quality child care, but how care is given to your child. It involves everyone who comes into contact with the child from the parents, siblings, relatives, and teachers to other caregivers. Note these critical factors to ensure your child grows in a healthy environment.

The Care Provider Has to Be Both Caring and Tuned In

Having these two qualities means that you can listen to your child and that you understand his or her communications, which may be verbal or non-verbal. Are you able to watch out for and pick up on emotional clues your child expresses as she or he interacts with you and other things? Do you give your child attention or are you busy chatting away on your phone or watching some movie? This does not mean you don't chat or watch a movie; it simply means give your child time to bond with you.

If you are a parent and want to choose an excellent caregiver for your child or children when you are not around, some cues will indicate your children will get quality care. Watch the caregiver spend time with your kids. They may not need to say they like children; it will show. How is the caregiver handling your children; is she or he able to multitask? For example, giving attention to all at the same time is a good sign. He or she may hold one kid on the arm while listening to the other and watching your other child play safely — and still be ready to step in and give assistance when needed. You, as a parent, should also be able to do this to provide quality care for all your kids.

Safety and Security

Almost all caregivers are aware of these two factors. The environment your child plays or grows should be safe. There should be no uncovered electrical outlets, and harmful products should be kept out of reach. Make sure to get the right toys for your child's age. Most of the toys can be swallowed and can be a choking hazard. These are all physical safety and security concerns. What about emotional education?

Remember your child is also growing emotionally! Children like to explore and are curious about many things. They are also brilliant. They know what is wrong and what is right and will look at you when they are about to do something wrong. You need to know how to treat your child in such a case. Do not yell or mistreat your child; instead, indicate and communicate what is wrong. You will instill trust and confidence, and the next time your child does something wrong, she or he will own up and accept the consequences.