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Chapter 7Creating High Quality Environments

2015 Cengage Learning.

What Determines Program Quality?Researchers have identified three factors that are associated with quality programs:Small group sizeLow teacher/child ratiosTeacher preparation and qualifications

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Locating High-Quality ProgramsResource and referral agencies (R&Rs) are located throughout the country to assist families in locating early childhood programs.

Families must determine which program best meets their unique needs.

Program AccreditationSeveral professional organizations recognize exceptional early childhood programsEach organization has established its own standards and review criteria.Participation is usually voluntary and requires a combination of self-study and program review.

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Early Childhood Program LicensureThere are no uniform national standards. Caring for Our Children attempts to address this problem by providing a set of research-based recommendations.Each state establishes and enforces its own child care licensing regulations. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this approach?Some early childhood programs are exempt from state licensing requirements.

LicensingAreas that are commonly examined as part of the licensing process include:Teacher qualificationsStaffing ratiosGroup sizeCurriculum plansEmergency preparation and services (e.g.,plans, policies, protection)

Learn More about the Licensing Regulations in Your StateClick on the link below to locate state licensing regulations:

National Resource Center for Health & Safety in Child Care & Early Education http://nrckids.org/STATES/states.htm

Indoor SafetyTeachers have an ethical and professional obligation to protect childrens safety and well-beingYoung children are especially vulnerable to hazards in their environmentYoung children have limited ability to recognize unsafe conditions

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Indoor SafetyWhen creating safe indoor environments, special attention should be given to:

Building location and adequate spaceRoom arrangement Building security (Teacher Checklist 7-2)Fire safety and evacuation plans (Teacher Checklist 7-3)Bathroom facilities and sanitationLighting, ventilation, air quality (Teacher Checklist 7-4)

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Outdoor SafetyWhen outdoor environments are carefully planned and supervised they provide all children with unique learning opportunities.Safe outdoor play areas reduce the risk of unintentional injury and liability issues. They are also less stressful for teachers to monitor.

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Outdoor SafetyPlanning safe outdoor environments requires that special attention be given to:Providing adequate space to accommodate childrens active playDesigning play areas so they are easy to supervise

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Outdoor SafetySelecting play equipment that is developmentally appropriate, safely constructed, properly installed and accessible to all children (Teacher Checklist 7-5, Table 7-4)Eliminating poisonous plants and vegetationMaintaining play equipment and surface materials in safe conditionSupervising childrens play at all times

TransportationWhen programs transport children:Childrens safety must always be a major concern.Programs should be aware of insurance and liability issues.Vehicles should be equipped with proper safety seats, seat restraints, and fire extinguisher.

Transportation FactsMotor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of death for children under 15 years in the U.S. (National Center for Health Statistics, 2012).

In 2011, 1283 children died as occupants in motor vehicle crashes; 207,432 were injured. Thats an average of 3.5 deaths and 568 injuries each day (National Center for Injury Prevention & Control, 2013).

Transportation FactsChild safety seats and lap/shoulder seat belts reduced the risk of death in passenger cars by 71% for infants, and by 54% for toddlers ages 1 to 4 years (NHTSA 2012).

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TransportationThe use of privately-owned vehicles should be discouraged to limit a programs liability. If they are used:Drivers should possess the appropriate license and be insured.Vehicles should be inspected for safety.Travel plans should be developed, reviewed, left with the director, and followed precisely.