Child Care
If you have young children, there are plenty of
good, licensed people who specialize in child care. Clark County has more than
500 licensed day care providers according to statistics provided by licensing
officials. Twelve centers are licensed for 24-hour care. If you want to enroll a
child in day care or preschool, you must provide the facility current
immunizations and a doctor's certificate stating the child is in good health and
has no contagious diseases or illnesses.
When you're choosing a child
care facility, it should fit with your family's lifestyle and schedule. Visit at
least three providers and don't be afraid to ask questions. Make sure their
hours are compatible with your work schedule. Find out how many holidays they
observe throughout the year and if they take time off in the summer. In addition
to tuition, ask about registration fees and extra costs for meals, snacks, and
optional activities such as music or computer classes.
Make sure the
facility follows basic safety practices such as using outlet covers, keeping
medications and cleaning supplies locked, and housing fire extinguishers.
Licensed day care centers in Las Vegas must have an annual fire marshal
inspection and monthly fire drills.
Full-time employees must be certified
in CPR and first aid. The state mandates that all day care centers post menus
and notify parents of communicable diseases as well as regulate
teacher-to-student ratios (which vary by age of children).
You also may
want to find out:
The average number of years that staff members have
been employed at the center and the average years of child care experience per
staff member.
What kind of curriculum the center offers and if there is a
daily schedule.
If the food is nutritious and prepared in a clean kitchen.
What procedures are in place when a child is injured or becomes ill while at
the center.
If there are enough toys and equipment for all children.
If
a child can nap comfortably and quietly for an appropriate length of time.
If there is a shaded outdoor play area.
If children can choose from
activities appropriate for their age.
If children are encouraged to solve
problems and ask questions.
If children appear happy and relaxed, and relate
well to one another.
If the staff handles difficult children in an
appropriate way.
If the provider offers parents references.