Choosing an early learning centre for your little one can be both exciting and daunting. After all, this is the first experience your child will have in an educational setting, and it may be the first time you’ve ever left your child alone with people you don’t know. Before beginning your search for early learning centres, these are some things to consider.
The Location of the Early Learning Centre
Obviously it would be great if the learning centre of your choice were close to home, but that’s not always possible. Before deciding on a childcare centre, it is important to factor in the distance from your home or office and how easy it will be to drop off and pick up your child. Think about your day-to-day routine, what times you would have to be at the centre, and what traffic is like between your home, work and the centre at those times.
The Programmes or Curriculum the Centre Offers
As you search for early learning centres, you will find that each offers a different curriculum, programme or philosophy. Some focus on traditional teaching methods and rigorous learning models, while others have a more relaxed play-based approach. Some might follow the Montessori style of learning, while others might implement the Reggio Emilia Approach. Think about what your child responds to best and what you would like them to get out of an early learning programme.
The Quality of the Facilities
It goes without saying that you want your child to be in a safe environment that supports and encourages their development. Take tours of various centres to get a feel for the spaces and see which one is a good fit for your child. Some things to look for include ample space for play indoors and outdoors, educational toys and tools that will stimulate and inspire your child, safe areas where the children can play under supervision, and cleanliness.
The Credentials and Experience of the Educators
A good childcare centre will require teachers to have a proper degree, diploma or certificate in early childhood education, while others may simply hire people who are great with children. Ideally you want the people who will be teaching your child to be fully qualified and have experience working with young people, as this will greatly affect how much your child learns and the quality of their experience.
When it comes to finding an early learning centre for your child, a little bit of preparation and knowledge goes a long way. By narrowing down your options and needs, you can find a centre that is right for you and your child.
