Choosing quality childcare

All learning is based on previous experience and knowledge. The home and the family are very important sources of learning for young children. Anyone looking after young children needs to understand the child’s home experiences and to display respect, sensitivity and positively reinforce the child’s cultural identity.

Look out for:

• a staff team that represents the range of ethnic and cultural groups in the local community
• a mix of children that reflects the local ethnic and cultural groups
• toys and books that positively reflect a range of ethnic and cultural groups
• multi-cultural menu
• celebrations of a range of festivals and special occasions

A child is an explorer – experimenting, persisting and succeeding through a range of activities which will support their learning at different stages. Look for:

• planned activities made ready for children
• time to play freely with a varied range of toys and equipment
• pictures and equipment that reflect children’s lives – including children with disabilities
• time to develop a close relationship with a keyworker or childcarer
• time in small groups and time in larger groups
• ‘quiet time’ for rest or sleep
• time and space for ‘large muscle’ action – playing outside, climbing, dancing

More information is available on the The Daycare Trust website and you can see whatchildcare is available in your area via the Childcare Link website. .