When we want to know how much a child has grown, we can use a growth chart. Similarly, when we want to measure the progress of child care programs, we can use the accreditation process. Moreover, accreditation commits us to stretching to reaching beyond the minimum requirements to achieve higher quality. It's an official process that enables us as child care providers to chart our progress.
How do children benefit?
Accreditation sets high standards in programming for children:
*A safe and healthy environment
*Age-appropriate activities based on knowledge of child development
*Nutritious meals in a positive, relaxed social atmosphere
*Varied play
*Encouragement to explore, both indoors and outdoors
*Positive adult interactions with children to meet individual needs
*Enhancement of children's self-confidence and learning facilitation
In an accredited program we would see staff working with children in small groups, listening to them, and asking and answering questions. We would see children working independently with materials, trying new things and succeeding at tasks. The environment would provide a safe, healthy, happy arena for learning.
Research shows that children who attend high quality early childhood programs are more eager to learn and committed to schooling. They demonstrate social competence as preschoolers that extends into kindergarten and primary grades. High quality programs also help children to experience smoother transitions to elementary school.
How does the family benefit?
An accredited child care program establishes clear and reasonable policies, maintains records and shares information with parents. Parents feel informed and empowered. They feel comfortable with their selection of quality care.
How do caregivers benefit?
It means increased opportunities through participation in seminars, conferences, support groups and professional associations. A high quality, accredited program raises personal respect, professional recognition and consumer opinion. It makes a worthy addition to any resume! It pays off in many ways.
How does a child care program become accredited?
The accreditation process involves in-depth program evaluation by the provider and the involvement of a qualified, independent validator. The validator observes the program, reviews records and documents, and conducts interviews. The provider also submits written reports.
For more information contact:
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accredits child care centers and group homes. The NAEYC collected information about licensing standards, obtained research results about the effect various aspects of group programs have on children and received input from professionals around the country. 1-800-424-2460.