Choosing Quality Child Care

Raising the Bar on Quality

"Raising the Bar on Quality" is a voluntary community standards program for licensed child care centres and preschools in Hamilton. As well as committing to ongoing staff development, "Raising the Bar" participants engage in an annual cycle of activities to monitor quality, and develop action plans to respond to areas of need or opportunities for enhancement. Annually, a Peer Review Committee of the Child Care Supervisors' Network group conducts a review of program profiles and recognizes participants for their attention to quality in child care. Any centre that has participated in this program's most recent implementation will have the word "Participant" noted in their information along with the relevant year.

Quality

Whether the arrangement you choose is centre based or home based, good quality child care which meets your child's needs and your expectations will have the following characteristics:

• warm, friendly, patient, capable caregivers who are trained in child development, first aid and CPR
• stable, committed experienced caregivers (low turnover rate)
• a variety of activities which are enjoyable and support healthy development
• daily routines which are predictable but flexible
• relaxed, caring and stimulating environment
• written program policies and plans
• a variety of toys, equipment and learning materials at the child's level
• space for active and quiet activities, indoor and outdoor play, and rest
• nutritious meals and snacks
• cultural sensitivity
• regular communication between parent and caregiver
• compatible child rearing philosophy and goals
• mutual respect and trust
• access to community resources and supports