When visiting a program for kids, here are some helpful questions to ask as you look and listen for signs of a quality program:
" Do children and youth appear to be happy in the program?
" Do staff seem to work well together?
" Are staff respectful of each other?
" Are the children and youth busy with activities?
" Do the children and youth help each other and cooperate?
" Do you hear happy sounds in the program?
" Are staff engaged in activities and conversation with children and youth?
" Are there adequate materials and space for a variety of activities?
" Are there spaces available for reading, quiet games and relaxing as well as spaces for active play?
" Do the materials and program space reflect diversity?
" Does the space reflect the work and interests of the children and youth in the program?
" Does the program provide a rich learning atmosphere that supports education?
" Is the playground are safe?
" Are there adequate supplies?
These questions were reprinted through the permission of the National School-Age Care Alliance (NSACA), a leading child advocacy organization. For more information on these and other helpful hints, please visit their web site at (www.nsaca.org) or call their hotline at 1-800-617-8242.