Certain characteristics define a truly quality preschool and child care program:
* First and foremost, a clean, safe, and secure facility with clear, well-established policies and procedures.
* You should see learning "disguised" as play: a variety of meaningful, well-planned activities designed to maximize the children's school readiness.
* An abundance of age-appropriate equipment, materials, and activities designed to support the various types of learning styles and areas of child development.
* Smaller, manageable groups of children with plenty of trained and educated teachers.
* Discipline that is positive and teaches conflict negotiation and self-control.
* No television - children have much to learn, explore, and discover and do so the best through hands-on experiences.
* No tours of the center "by appointment only" - it is critical to visit unannounced in order to assure that the environment for your child is the same whether you're there or not.
* The practice of good business policies that support the cost of running a quality program.
* Teachers who have a long tenure with the center - no "revolving door" of staff, which
contributes to attachment difficulties in young children.
