What constitutes good quality daycare

What constitutes good quality daycare

1. Low adult to child ratio

   • To ensure the child receives plenty of adult attention and stimulation

2. A small sized group

   • Small groups are easier for younger children to deal with as there are fewer strangers

3. Mixed age group of children

   • Clarke-stewart et al found that social development improves when children are placed in mixed age groups. This is because they observe older peers interactions and copy them

4. Well trained staff and low turnover

   • This allows children to get to know the staff and prevents feelings of insecurity when they leave

5. Secure attachment

   • Good quality day care will provide children with a stable attachment so they can feel secure and safe. The worker should be responsive and warm to the child

6. A structured day

   • Good quality day care should involve a structured day with free time to play, group activities and structured activities such as drawing. Routines help the child to feel their day is predictable.