Welcome to the series designed to help you build the best foundation for your child. If you are just joining us, you may want to start here.
If you read any books or articles written to help you find the best place for you child, the most common criteria among the experts is licensing. Every one will tell you to look for a place that is licensed. Most every other criteria will vary depending on the source.
In my not-so-humble opinion, I believe as a general rule, licensing has done a horrible disservice to our society. Do not get me wrong, there are definitely reasons for licensing and it can help in some situations, but bear with me here…
Licensing, at least at the state level, is designed to ensure that BASIC care requirements are being met. Licensing in most states is designed to ensure that the children are not being placed in dangerous environments.
Licensing is required, but it provides a false sense of security.
Personally, I believe my own two eyes can see the likelihood of a dangerous environment better than a piece of paper can tell me.
When you go on a tour of the facility, you can see with your own two eyes, too. (PLEASE take a tour of a facility before leaving your child there!)
Are there broken locks?
Is the paint chipping on the walls?
Does the bathroom smell?
You may think the facility can clean up for your visit, and that licensing would catch things you would miss.
I am telling you it is usually not the case.
I guarantee that if the center was able to clean up for your visit, they were able to clean up for the licensing visit, too.
I believe we have given too much credit to the state and not enough credit to our intelligence as caring parents. (I have done it, too.)
Also, while I understand the need for cleanliness, I understand that when children are involved, messes will be made.
The result of children assisting with the mixing.
I have seen some very clean, but very mean people. I have seen some really big messes in the presence of some great teachers.
Do not get me wrong. You should always ask to see the license, to make sure the organization is operating legally, but do not rely on it as some sort of assurance that the program is a quality program.
Important: This does vary among states. In the state of Texas, this post holds true. Other states do have additional requirements, and Oklahoma has relatively recently added to theirs.
After doing your own check for quality in appearance and verifying that there is a license, your next questions will be a big one.
What about training?
Tags: child care, daycare, development, early childhood, Education, preschool
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