The quality of an early childhood education program starts with having a classroom environment that is both safe and nurturing. Children should be given positive behavior identification and guidance for modification to help build self esteem and develop autonomy. The daily schedule should help children know what to expect, helping them to feel secure and giving them the confidence to take part in activities. The room arrangement should include learning and play centers.
A quality program offers a variety of physical activity in the classroom and on the playground. All equipment should be age appropriate and safe. Teachers should not only supervise activities, but also model proper physical activity through songs and games.
Starting preschool can be an emotional time for young children being away from parents and home. A quality early education program offers a warm, friendly environment. Children are encouraged to play and explore within the supervised and nurturing atmosphere of the classroom. The school should have a supportive relationship with parents, allowing them to observe the class on occasion or take part in activities.
Intellectual development is encouraged through age appropriate activities. Objects and activities around the classroom are labeled with pictures and words to help build vocabulary and develop reading skills. Multi-sensory activities are available in free-play centers and through daily curriculum. Stories and songs foster creativity and using the imagination. Age appropriate technology is introduced using programs geared toward preschool children's abilities and attention spans.
A primary goal of a quality early education program is to foster social development in young children. Teachers encourage language development through modeling, rather than correction. Children learn to interact with peers and adults in positive and appropriate ways through daily activities.
The U.S. State Department recommends the following to help employees evaluate the quality of accredited early childhood education programs: When visiting a program, look for frequent and positive interaction between teachers and children. There should also be a schedule of age appropriate activities. The staff should be well trained, with continuous professional development opportunities.
A quality early childhood education program should have a low teacher-to-child ratio for optimal learning. It should be a safe and healthy environment with age appropriate materials throughout the classroom. Nutritious meals and/or snacks should be offered. The program should have an open classroom policy and frequent communication with parents. The goals and values of the program should be clearly stated and followed.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, high-quality early education programs are often not affordable to many families, which can have long-term consequences when it comes to school performance. National programs like Head Start offer low income families a quality early education and promotes school readiness through fostering healthy development in children. Head Start offers services beyond just education, also providing healthy meals, positive role models, health services and social development by working with the whole family.