Fatherhood

[Singleparentdad]

Whether you are already a father or recently found out you're going to be a father, you play a large role in your child's life and development. Parents are a child's first and most important teacher and involvement in this role should start early. In the past, locating high-quality child care may have been done mostly by mothers. Today we find more dads are stepping in. Dads are looking for the same things in child care that moms are.
There's a lot to consider when locating high-quality child care for your child. Once you've located the child care, there are many ways to continue to be involved in your child's child care experience. Below are some things that might make this task seem less intimidating.

• Take the time to make the call to your local Child Care Resource and Referral agency. They will be able to assist you in finding high-quality child care in your area and will connect you to local parent resources.
• Read up on what to look for when you are visiting high-quality child care programs. Here are just a few things to notice:
  • The provider and staff training and education
  • Caregiver to child ratios
  • Learning activities and curriculum available to your child
  • Health and safety standards followed by caregivers
  • Approachability of provider and other caregivers

For more information and to download a free copy of Is This the Right Place for My Child?, click here.

• Stay involved after the child care decision is made. Aside from being a part of locating high-quality child care, make sure you make a connection with the caregiver as well. Here's how:
  • Make sure the caregiver has your contact information, too
  • Check in regularly - ask questions about how your child is doing
  • Help with pick-up or drop-off on a regular basis
  • Pick your child up early and take time to read a book or play a favorite game
  • Volunteer your time or talents if your child's caregiver is having a special event or just needs a little help

High-quality child care will give your child a great start to early development. The experiences she will be carried with her throughout her life. Being a part of it will be something wonderful for you to carry with you, as well.




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