Looking for Mom's Day Out program...wondering What to Ask!

take a look at Savvy Source. www.savvysource.com

Lots of good info!

good luck!

Sorry I can't say much about any of the schools that you mentioned but I have some suggestions on maybe what you could ask them.
1. I would ask what a typical day looks like for you son's class. (The days schedule)
2. Is there any curriculum that is used? Is so what is it?
3. How is a medical emergency or a sick child handled?
4. How are behavior problems dealt with? What is their protocol? (timeouts, loss of privileges)
C.

Are there any resources online with a list of what to ask? Honestly, if it were me (and it was a few years ago), I'd make sure to get a feel for the place when I visit and trust my gut. A good program will have children's art on the walls--the kind created by children, not the teacher's idea of what they should do (you know, choosing their colors, guiding their hands, making it perfect...). There should be clearly posted lesson plans, even if it's not "academic" in the traditional sense; in other words, there needs to be a structure to the day that everyone can see. There should be clear policies and procedures for everything from discipline to potty to medical emergencies. And, above all, there should be warm, engaging teachers and staff who obviously care about the kids in their care. If you're still looking, I'd highly recommend my kids' school--it's small, fairly inexpensive, and SUPER! My nearly 4-yr-old has thrived there--coming home with impeccable manners, great empathy for other kids and creatures, and a wealth of creative experiences. My nearly 2-yr old gets to school, lets go of my hand, walks into her room and never even looks back to say goodbye (I love that--I think). It's the Early Learning Center of First Christian Church, Richardson (601 E. Main, at intersection of Grove). Their number is ###-###-####, or feel free to contact me to pick my brain (however, I'm biased :-) They start at 1 year old, which is a parents' day out program, with a class size of 4. They continue through the 4/5 yr olds, with class sizes capped at 8-10. Enrollment is underway, but there are still a few openings. Whatever you choose, all the best to you, and trust your mommy-instincts!!

You could try Lakeside Baptist Church off of Garland Road and Buckner in Dallas. They have a mothers day out program. My best friend, who just had a baby girl (her 4th) works there. I've been up there with her and they are great.

E.

I use Christian Life Assembly in Carrollton and love them. I did a lot of research and visited several programs. There are certain things you need to ask about, but I am a big believer in mommy's gut instinct. Visit and then go with where you feel most comfortable. I asked about discipline; sick policies; emergency procedures (sickness or things like tornadoes and severe storms); cleanliness procedures (how often are toys and supplies cleaned); how teachers are chosen and hired (any certifications or experience); cost and added fees - supply fees, registration fees and activity fees can add up; are there classes such as music or Spanish, etc.; how meal times are handled - what can you send for lunch (will they heat food); are snacks provided; how nap times are handled; and do they get outside play time. Academically, it depends on your personal preference. Some people are more intersted in academics, some about social interactions. Different programs stress different things.