4 Steps for Choosing Quality Child Care
 
Potty Training
 
Transition Periods for You and Your Child
 
Is My Child Getting Enough Sleep?
 
Learning Through Play
 
Eating Healthy
 
Consistency is Important for Your Child
 
 
Effective Parenting
 
Is your car seat properly installed?
 

When Your Child Comes Home Messy

Red paint in the hair?
Blue paint on the jeans?
Sand in the shoes?
Peanut butter on the favorite shirt?
White socks that look brown?
Sleeves a little bit damp?

YOUR CHILD probably...

  • Worked with a friend
  • Solved a problem
  • Created a masterpiece
  • Negotiated a difference
  • Learned a new skill
  • Had a great time
  • Developed new language skills

 

YOUR CHILD probably didn't...

  • Feel lonely
  • Become bored
  • Do repetitive tasks that are too babyish
  • Do worksheet tasks that are too easy
  • Do sit down work that is discouraging

 

YOU probably...

  • Paid good money for those clothes
  • Will have trouble getting the red paint out
  • Are concerned that the caregiver isn't paying enough attention to your child

 

THE CAREGIVER probably...

  • Was aware of your child's needs and interests
  • Spent time planning a challenging activity for the children
  • Encouraged the children to try new things
  • Put smocks on the children
  • Was worried that you might be concerned

     

    Try to remember your favorite activity when you were four years old. Was it outdoor play with water, mud, dress up clothes, with friends? Young children really learn when they are actively involved in play, not when someone is talking to them. There is a difference between "messy" and "lack of care." The caregiver made sure your child was fed, warm, took a nap, washed hands after toileting and before eating, and also planned messy fun things to do because that's how young children learn!

     

    • Send your child in clothes that can get dirty!
    • Keep extra old clothes at the play site for times when the child gets wet or really messy.
    • If you need to take the child out, bring the dress up clothes and allow time to change.
    • Keep calm.
    • Remember in a few years, teenagers will use your shampoo, mirrors, and most of your towels to be clean.
    • But young children need time to be kids.
    • If you have concerns, talk to your child's caregiver about active play.