Child Care Red Flags VS. Green Flags

Welcome back to Thrive! In my last post, I went over 5 Tips for Finding an Early Childhood Program. This time, let's chat about some signs that could be either a red flag or a green flag when you're looking at EC programs.

3 Red Flags:

**High Teacher Turnover**

I once heard that losing a teacher is one of the most stressful experiences for kids, right after losing a family member or going through a divorce. So, a program with high teacher turnover definitely raises some alarms. Kids do better with familiar faces, and switching teachers every couple of months can create a lot of unnecessary stress for both them and you. When you check out a program, ask how long the teachers have been there and their turnover rate.

**Shifting**

Shifting is when kids are moved from their main classroom to another one. This happens sometimes to help manage student-to-teacher ratios, but too much of it can disrupt kids' routines and how they relate to their teachers and friends. A little bit of shifting during morning and afternoon transitions is normal, but if it’s happening all day long, it might be a sign that the quality of care is slipping. Ideally, kids should spend 85-90% of their day with their main teacher.

**Frequent Citations/Deficiencies**

The state monitors All licensed child care programs, meaning someone checks in on them reguarly for compliance. If a program has a history of repeated violations or citations, that’s a big red flag. You can always reach out to your state’s child care licensing department to get the scoop on any issues a program has had.

3 Green Flags:

**Family Program Partnership**

A strong partnership between families and the program is important for kids' development. If you see a program focused on building that relationship, it’s a positive sign. Good communication is key, whether through daily updates, phone calls, or newsletters. A program that celebrates family diversity is also a big plus. When you visit, ask about how they keep families in the loop.

**Hands-on Learning and Play**

Play is crucial for young kids. It helps them learn about the world and their role in it. A quality program knows this and provides plenty of opportunities for kids to engage in hands-on, play-based learning. When you tour, check out the classroom setup. Are there lots of learning centers, toys, and books? Does the room have a TV? It’s not a deal-breaker, but if it’s being used daily, that’s something to ask about. Good programs prioritize active play.

**Engaging Teachers**

The vibe of the teachers can make a difference. An engaging teacher is not only welcoming to you and your child but also creates a nurturing environment when you’re not around. Look for teachers who interact positively with kids, keep you updated on your child’s day, and are open to discussing any concerns. When you visit, remember how the teacher connects with the children. Are they attentive and conversational? Do they communicate with respect and care?

Remember, no program is without its flaws, but knowing what to look for can help you find the right fit. If you're looking for more tips on touring an early childhood program, be sure to check out the "Early Childhood Program Tour E-Guide"! This guide was created to offer helpful insights and support to families searching for childcare. You can easily find it under the childcare tab on my website. Keep thriving until next time!