Daycare.com Forum
Curriculum>Those Of You Who Do Curriculum..(Sorry Kinda Long..)
Blackcat31 01:15 PM 02-09-2011
I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
happykidschildcare 01:47 PM 02-09-2011
http://thoughtsofesme.blogspot.com/2....html?spref=fb
I do preschool its included in the dc price. I try to do something everyday but it doesnt always workout
we at least do 30-40 minutes of projects be it preschool or arts & crafts. I use to use the funshine express and highly recommend them if you can afford it. Since my group has grown from 4-6 to 12 kids I cant afford them anymore 
so I use the site above and enchanted learning is good for some stuff and they are $20 for a year but you have to take the time to print it yourself from thier site. Good luck!
I do preschool its included in the dc price. I try to do something everyday but it doesnt always workout
we at least do 30-40 minutes of projects be it preschool or arts & crafts. I use to use the funshine express and highly recommend them if you can afford it. Since my group has grown from 4-6 to 12 kids I cant afford them anymore so I use the site above and enchanted learning is good for some stuff and they are $20 for a year but you have to take the time to print it yourself from thier site. Good luck!
Blackcat31 01:53 PM 02-09-2011
Originally Posted by happykidschildcare:
http://thoughtsofesme.blogspot.com/2....html?spref=fb
I do preschool its included in the dc price. I try to do something everyday but it doesnt always workout we at least do 30-40 minutes of projects be it preschool or arts & crafts. I use to use the funshine express and highly recommend them if you can afford it. Since my group has grown from 4-6 to 12 kids I cant afford them anymore so I use the site above and enchanted learning is good for some stuff and they are $20 for a year or printables.
Good luck!
Thanks, but I am a former user of Funshine Express....great company/product but I quit for the reasons I mentioned above in my post. I am well schooled on preschool activities and curriculum as I am thiscloseto completing my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. http://thoughtsofesme.blogspot.com/2....html?spref=fb
I do preschool its included in the dc price. I try to do something everyday but it doesnt always workout
we at least do 30-40 minutes of projects be it preschool or arts & crafts. I use to use the funshine express and highly recommend them if you can afford it. Since my group has grown from 4-6 to 12 kids I cant afford them anymore so I use the site above and enchanted learning is good for some stuff and they are $20 for a year or printables.Good luck!
I am only wondering why family child care providers are trying so hard to stuff their days so full of stuff that I am unfortunately finding is really not that high in demand. We are paid accordingly and although I do get a slightly higher rate than some of the family daycare homes in my area, it is NOT because of the curriculum I offer/teach...it is the quality of care I am offering. I know this because I have been asking and paying attention to the needs of the parents/children in the last few years.
daycare 01:53 PM 02-09-2011
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
I know exactly what you mean. I teach here and it most, not all, but most of my parents just want a safe place. I look at it like this. I am not going to change what I offer. I keep moving forward everyday. I know in my heart of hearts that these children are learning and I really dont care if their parents appreciate it or not. Some of my parents will go out of their way to tell me wow I am impressed, while others keep their kid out until midnight on a week night and then the kid sleeps all day long...I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
I teach becuase there is nothing better than seeing a child learn from your lessons....
If I were you, I would charge a monthly curriculum fee, even if it is only $5.00 per family. This might make you feel a little better too...???
Blackcat31 01:58 PM 02-09-2011
Originally Posted by daycare:
I know exactly what you mean. I teach here and it most, not all, but most of my parents just want a safe place. I look at it like this. I am not going to change what I offer. I keep moving forward everyday. I know in my heart of hearts that these children are learning and I really dont care if their parents appreciate it or not. Some of my parents will go out of their way to tell me wow I am impressed, while others keep their kid out until midnight on a week night and then the kid sleeps all day long...
I teach becuase there is nothing better than seeing a child learn from your lessons....
If I were you, I would charge a monthly curriculum fee, even if it is only $5.00per family. This might make you feel a little better too...???
That is a good idea, but I am really just trying to either be a family childcare provider or a preschool teacher that does not deal with anything but the preschool age. I know exactly what you mean. I teach here and it most, not all, but most of my parents just want a safe place. I look at it like this. I am not going to change what I offer. I keep moving forward everyday. I know in my heart of hearts that these children are learning and I really dont care if their parents appreciate it or not. Some of my parents will go out of their way to tell me wow I am impressed, while others keep their kid out until midnight on a week night and then the kid sleeps all day long...
I teach becuase there is nothing better than seeing a child learn from your lessons....
If I were you, I would charge a monthly curriculum fee, even if it is only $5.00per family. This might make you feel a little better too...???
As a FCC provider, I am just feeling as though for the little money we earn/are paid it is not worth all the effort we put into all these fancy curriculums and scheduled routines.
I am looking to focus more on the other thing you mentioned.....the wonderful feeling we get when a child learns something that was not pre-planned but simply learned through regular daily interaction with playmates and friends. Every activity is a "teachable moment" it just doesn't always have to come from elaborate pre-packaged curriculums that we devote hours and hours of time and money investing in....
daycare 02:08 PM 02-09-2011
oh i agree... I am very in to teaching on that moment.... I dont really like a lot of the preplanned stuff, a little cheesy and I don't like the fact that it does not allow for the child to create their own ideas.
I am starting to phase out a lot of the pre written and am leaning more on the stuff like reading books, teaching zoo phonics (only pay start up cost), creative free art, music, dancing, math with water and sand...things that dont require me to always have to purchse a package deal...
like today. we wrote and illustrated our own stories. We took a walk outside and observerd all kinds of things. We then came back and wrote about what we saw some fact some stories fiction. I actually got the idea from MGT but it was from almost 2 years ago. Maybe you should just try using what you have on hand and see how that worksout.
I also put a gathering list together each month and ask parents to donate things. Like jars, egg cratons, sticks, yarn, paper, and etc. Just about all of my parents get involved. I pretty much make them, as I will put thier list up by the front door and wont cross their name off until they bring it....
I am starting to phase out a lot of the pre written and am leaning more on the stuff like reading books, teaching zoo phonics (only pay start up cost), creative free art, music, dancing, math with water and sand...things that dont require me to always have to purchse a package deal...
like today. we wrote and illustrated our own stories. We took a walk outside and observerd all kinds of things. We then came back and wrote about what we saw some fact some stories fiction. I actually got the idea from MGT but it was from almost 2 years ago. Maybe you should just try using what you have on hand and see how that worksout.
I also put a gathering list together each month and ask parents to donate things. Like jars, egg cratons, sticks, yarn, paper, and etc. Just about all of my parents get involved. I pretty much make them, as I will put thier list up by the front door and wont cross their name off until they bring it....
countrymom 05:43 PM 02-09-2011
seriously it all depends on my mood and the kids moods. some days they would rather play all day and other days they want art. Most of the time, as long as they are well cared for none of the parents care what we do all day. Heck they are so happy that I take the kids outside so they don't have too. I find that most days I feel like a parent to 5 more kids than a provider, I do everything with them that I do with my own kids, I even bring them for haircuts, cut their nails, bake with them....
I don't advertise as a preschool, just a "home daycare" I'm a home that offers a homey atmosphere while watching children.
But I have to agree, there is not enough time in the day to do things, sometimes during the day I spend doing my stuff because thats the only time things are open or things need to be done before the evening.
I don't advertise as a preschool, just a "home daycare" I'm a home that offers a homey atmosphere while watching children.
But I have to agree, there is not enough time in the day to do things, sometimes during the day I spend doing my stuff because thats the only time things are open or things need to be done before the evening.
Abigail 07:03 PM 02-09-2011
Blackcat, I agree that we shouldn't feel we need to buy a fancy curriculum and go all out. I disagree that children should learn to do what they want when they want. For my own sake, I NEED structure. I would follow a "basic routine", but don't advertise as "Basic Care" because it looks like it's just eat/sleep/potty kind of basic. LOL
I have a simple routine set up with lots of free play (keep in mind, I have this all ready for the future, so you don't have to take my word since I haven't given it a test run!). I have set times for snacks/meals/diaper checks/naps/outside time. I want to have a circle time where we learn a song or fingerplay and work on the basics like you mentioned. As far as no routine, I would have to stick to one. It's best for the child too.
I have a simple routine set up with lots of free play (keep in mind, I have this all ready for the future, so you don't have to take my word since I haven't given it a test run!). I have set times for snacks/meals/diaper checks/naps/outside time. I want to have a circle time where we learn a song or fingerplay and work on the basics like you mentioned. As far as no routine, I would have to stick to one. It's best for the child too.
slpender 06:20 AM 09-11-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
That is a good idea, but I am really just trying to either be a family childcare provider or a preschool teacher that does not deal with anything but the preschool age.
As a FCC provider, I am just feeling as though for the little money we earn/are paid it is not worth all the effort we put into all these fancy curriculums and scheduled routines.
I am looking to focus more on the other thing you mentioned.....the wonderful feeling we get when a child learns something that was not pre-planned but simply learned through regular daily interaction with playmates and friends. Every activity is a "teachable moment" it just doesn't always have to come from elaborate pre-packaged curriculums that we devote hours and hours of time and money investing in....
Black cat I agree with you on this also. The children still learn everything they need to know while playing. My daughter learned all her numbers 1-10 playing on our playroom hopscotch rug not through a planned activity. The children take part in the art more if I just randomly pull things and leave them out to explore on their own. My 3 yr olds would play outside all day if I allow it.That is a good idea, but I am really just trying to either be a family childcare provider or a preschool teacher that does not deal with anything but the preschool age.
As a FCC provider, I am just feeling as though for the little money we earn/are paid it is not worth all the effort we put into all these fancy curriculums and scheduled routines.
I am looking to focus more on the other thing you mentioned.....the wonderful feeling we get when a child learns something that was not pre-planned but simply learned through regular daily interaction with playmates and friends. Every activity is a "teachable moment" it just doesn't always have to come from elaborate pre-packaged curriculums that we devote hours and hours of time and money investing in....
Over the last few weeks I have thrown all my lesson plans out the window and the only scheduled activites are breakfast, lunch, nap and snack and my days are much more enjoyable.
Childminder 09:02 AM 09-11-2013
NAFCC just endorsed a curriculum called Gee Whiz that might be interesting to check into for those of you that are looking for something. it has a $12 a month fee and you print off what you need or want.
Those of you that like the play based curriculum, check out HighScope. It is world renown and what most head start programs use, at least in Michigan. Also if you are in Michigan most R&R Associations and Great Start Trainings are promoting the classes for free.
I am combining both.
Those of you that like the play based curriculum, check out HighScope. It is world renown and what most head start programs use, at least in Michigan. Also if you are in Michigan most R&R Associations and Great Start Trainings are promoting the classes for free.
I am combining both.
melilley 10:28 AM 09-11-2013
I am an FCC and have been going back and forth on whether to purchase a curriculum or not and have been researching the different curriculum's that are available. I have decided that I am not going to purchase a curriculum, but do my own. Here, you don't really get paid more for doing one and to me, everything that you said from purchasing to planning to implementing and everything in between is not worth it. And also, my families all said that they chose me because I am not a preschool and they like the fact that we don't just do preschool activities all day, that we actually do things according to what the children like and it's more of a home atmosphere.
With that said, I am mostly play based, but some activities are minimumally (sp?) led by me. I do have some structure because I believe children need some structure. I also have a schedule, but if something goes over, we don't immediately stop to do the next thing.
I do have circle and this is my "preschool" part of the day-which is only 15-20 minutes. In circle we:
Have a weekly theme and have Fun Friday's, usually corresponding to the theme.
Have a letter, color, and shape of the week
Count to 20
Read books
Sing songs
My children are all 2.5 and under and usually they will sit at first, but then they go off and do something, but I continue to do circle. I have had parents of children remark on how their child just started counting at home, and the child rarely will sit in circle. They do get things even if it seems that they aren't listening!
We do art a few times a week, sometimes it corresponds with the theme, sometimes not. And my art is usually process art. Sometimes I will cut out a shape, but they glue, paint, etc. things where they want them to be.
We also work on self help skills, which to me, are so vital for kids to practice/learn!
Other than that, we play and learn through our play. I observe some of the time and I interact some of the time.
Anyways, with all that said, IMO, I don't think that to run a great ffc you need to have a curriculum that is made for you. I think that you can make your own, specific to your group, and it can be just as good, or even better than some of them out there! I'm not saying that some of the curriculum that you can buy is bad, but I don't think you really need it, especially if you want to run a fcc that isn't labeled a preschool per say.
Some parents are looking for a preschool environment, and some for a more home-like environment. It's possible to mix the two, but you are always going to have parents who want one or the other. You can't please everyone.
With that said, I am mostly play based, but some activities are minimumally (sp?) led by me. I do have some structure because I believe children need some structure. I also have a schedule, but if something goes over, we don't immediately stop to do the next thing.
I do have circle and this is my "preschool" part of the day-which is only 15-20 minutes. In circle we:
Have a weekly theme and have Fun Friday's, usually corresponding to the theme.
Have a letter, color, and shape of the week
Count to 20
Read books
Sing songs
My children are all 2.5 and under and usually they will sit at first, but then they go off and do something, but I continue to do circle. I have had parents of children remark on how their child just started counting at home, and the child rarely will sit in circle. They do get things even if it seems that they aren't listening!
We do art a few times a week, sometimes it corresponds with the theme, sometimes not. And my art is usually process art. Sometimes I will cut out a shape, but they glue, paint, etc. things where they want them to be.
We also work on self help skills, which to me, are so vital for kids to practice/learn!
Other than that, we play and learn through our play. I observe some of the time and I interact some of the time.
Anyways, with all that said, IMO, I don't think that to run a great ffc you need to have a curriculum that is made for you. I think that you can make your own, specific to your group, and it can be just as good, or even better than some of them out there! I'm not saying that some of the curriculum that you can buy is bad, but I don't think you really need it, especially if you want to run a fcc that isn't labeled a preschool per say.
Some parents are looking for a preschool environment, and some for a more home-like environment. It's possible to mix the two, but you are always going to have parents who want one or the other. You can't please everyone.
Pammy 10:24 PM 09-10-2013
Please does anybody know of a good Preschool curriculum that is cheap and has everything...a theme colors numbers letters recipes and games?? Please help me!!!
Angelsj 05:07 AM 09-11-2013
Blackcat, I bought the letter of the week download we looked at. $15 and I love it. It gives me stuff to post on my wall, to advertise (more to the parents) what we are emphasizing this week. I have a poster with Ee on it, a green frog, a triangle, and the number two with two kites, a bible verse, and all of those things in Spanish (I had to get those myself, they were not included)
It also has some games, puzzles and stuff to play with in the theme you can pick and choose.
We have a schedule and structure to a degree. Throughout the ENTIRE day, the kids might spend 20-30 mins doing what would be considered something preschool. I provide open ended crafts, puzzles and games.
Yesterday, we played with blue and yellow paint in a plastic baggie to mix. While we were outside, we spent a few minutes looking for triangles, we sang a song about the letter E and its sound. We talked about the weather.
At lunch everyone got two pieces of carrot, and two pieces of cheese stick. We talked about everyone having two shoes.
None of it was "circle time", sit down and color this time, etc. I spend maybe half an hour on Sunday changing my board, and we are done with prep.
I agree with you. My parents typically shrug when I tell them what I do. "They will get it over time," they say. And they appreciate not always having a ton of junk to take home that they then feel they must keep. I just send stuff once in a while.
It also has some games, puzzles and stuff to play with in the theme you can pick and choose.
We have a schedule and structure to a degree. Throughout the ENTIRE day, the kids might spend 20-30 mins doing what would be considered something preschool. I provide open ended crafts, puzzles and games.
Yesterday, we played with blue and yellow paint in a plastic baggie to mix. While we were outside, we spent a few minutes looking for triangles, we sang a song about the letter E and its sound. We talked about the weather.
At lunch everyone got two pieces of carrot, and two pieces of cheese stick. We talked about everyone having two shoes.
None of it was "circle time", sit down and color this time, etc. I spend maybe half an hour on Sunday changing my board, and we are done with prep.
I agree with you. My parents typically shrug when I tell them what I do. "They will get it over time," they say. And they appreciate not always having a ton of junk to take home that they then feel they must keep. I just send stuff once in a while.
Angelsj 05:14 AM 09-11-2013
Originally Posted by Pammy:
Please does anybody know of a good Preschool curriculum that is cheap and has everything...a theme colors numbers letters recipes and games?? Please help me!!!
Check out LOTW (this version)Please does anybody know of a good Preschool curriculum that is cheap and has everything...a theme colors numbers letters recipes and games?? Please help me!!!
I have always used free and just found my own stuff, but I really like what this has. And it is cheap, downloadable, has lovely pictures to post or give to kids. There are no worksheets or really coloring pages. Not sure about recipes..I would have to look.
Cat Herder 05:51 AM 09-11-2013
My State (who pays me nothing, offers no insurance or benefits, btw) says I have to meet "early learning standards". These books are a couple hundred pages each with HUGE posters I am supposed to hang around my HOME.
I am being bullied to offer "curriculum" (paid for by me and trademarked by whomever the state recommends).
Wonder what their cut of the profits are??
I am being bullied to offer "curriculum" (paid for by me and trademarked by whomever the state recommends).
Wonder what their cut of the profits are??
My3cents 11:48 AM 10-03-2013
Originally Posted by Cat Herder:
My State (who pays me nothing, offers no insurance or benefits, btw) says I have to meet "early learning standards". These books are a couple hundred pages each with HUGE posters I am supposed to hang around my HOME.
I am being bullied to offer "curriculum" (paid for by me and trademarked by whomever the state recommends).
Wonder what their cut of the profits are??
I like My State (who pays me nothing, offers no insurance or benefits, btw) says I have to meet "early learning standards". These books are a couple hundred pages each with HUGE posters I am supposed to hang around my HOME.
I am being bullied to offer "curriculum" (paid for by me and trademarked by whomever the state recommends).
Wonder what their cut of the profits are??
I don't agree with all the bull poo they try to throw down our throats as being the right way and only way of doing things.
I am a great preschool teacher with out a degree. I teach basic skills and throw a bunch of learning ops, and experiences in there.
I like being my own boss! That is why I have my own business. I don't want to be bossed around by someone that sat in a meeting deciding what the right way is of doing something when you can do something about ten different ways and get the same results and have patience learned in getting there.
Unregistered 02:17 PM 10-03-2013
Why? Mainly because the state is pushing the preschool down our throats, star ratings that are linked to subsidized payments, quality score ratings, parents being brainwashed into educational chide care, and I'm not tallking early childhood development, they want a full blown curriculum by the minute even for 3 month old children. And they still send them to centers by the age of 2, that is mostly the trend in California .
KIDZRMYBIZ 08:23 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by Pammy:
Please does anybody know of a good Preschool curriculum that is cheap and has everything...a theme colors numbers letters recipes and games?? Please help me!!!
Pammy, thanks for joining the NE group! I used Carol's Affordable Curriculum one year. It was the only time I purchased a ready-made curriculum. It's substantially cheaper than anything else out there, and pretty cute, too. A few things I thought were a little dorky, but the kids liked them! What's awesome about it is that ALL MATERIALS are included (no printing-ink is so expensive!). So, I liked it. Can get it even cheaper per kid if you partner up with a provider friend to increase the number you order.Please does anybody know of a good Preschool curriculum that is cheap and has everything...a theme colors numbers letters recipes and games?? Please help me!!!
MarinaVanessa 10:59 AM 09-11-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
For me, I find that in my area the majority of parents look for an educational child care arrangement unless they have family to help them with child care. In my city we definitely see a difference in child care cost when an educational approach is offered vs when it's not. I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
In my city all daycare centers offer some type of educational program (preschool, Montessori etc) and their rates start at $130/week for half day programs ( Mon-Fri 9am-1pm) not including yearly registration fees. Full day programs cost more (around $200-$230/week). Before/after school costs are around $70/week.
FCC programs that have some sort of preschool program cost around $160-$175/week for full-time care. I plan my own preschool program and charge on the lower end of this scale ($165/week) but I don't a lot of worksheets or crafts. I do free art, free play etc. in a relaxed way but it's planned and with a purpose.
Each month we work on certain things and have themes and even though I plan each day most of the activities are pretty much what we'd be playing with even if I didn't do "preschool". For example, this month we are working on the letter A, the colors red and green, the circle, the number 1 and our community helper is the police officer. Today we painted with red and green paint, are having apples (red and green, apples are circles) at each meal, made red apple scented play dough which I encouraged the children to roll up into snakes to look like the number 1, our dramatic play area has police officer props and costumes, our library has books relating to what we are learning etc. For me planning the month the first time takes time but I will save my plans and reuse them next year or I will plan next year a little differently and keep both years worth of plans to reuse them and rotate them each year.
Other FCC that don't offer preschool charge around $100-$125/week depending on their location. That's considerable less than what I can charge and I don't offer a full-blown "preschool" program.
I also find that even many FCC offer preschool many of our clients prefer to send their children to "real preschool" anyway. I have a 3yo DCG that comes to me before and after preschool even though I offer an educational approach because her parents were looking for child care that supported learning in a more relaxed way. I see more and more of this.
Here where I live if I didn't advertise myself as educational or as having some sort of preschool program I wouldn't get much interest and especially not for what I charge even though it's a fair deal.
misslori50 01:13 PM 09-11-2013
I completely agree with you. I cant imagine trying to run my childcare with so many structured activities. When do they get to just play and be kids. My son is 11 and when he was small we rarely did much formal teaching. He learned to read by (age 4) music and videos. I believe they learn so much better if they are let explore on their own. Sure plan fun things but dont put so much stress on trying to be the perfect provider. Love the kids and give them a wonderful place to explore on their own
SSWonders 03:59 PM 09-15-2013
I myself have wondered the same thing many times. It seems that no matter how hard I have worked providing/planning "curriculum", parents pull their kids to send them to preschool around 3 years of age anyway. What I have found for myself is that using a curriculum of sorts makes things more fun and interesting for the kids which makes me feel better about the care I am providing. Another biggie is that it keeps things fresh for me. After 24+ years I need something to hold my interest as well and bring some variety to the days. I do use a curriculum kit but I pick and choose what we do from it. I don't stress about trying to get everything done everyday.
My3cents 11:34 AM 10-03-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
I do a preschool program with my kids for several reasons....I am wondering since we have had several threads and posts about teaching and doing curriculum. Of those providers who buy or plan a curriculum that you follow on pretty routine daily schedule, do you get paid more than the going rate for your area?
I ask because I have been in this business for some time now and every year I plan a curriculum, pay loads of money for it, spend an enormous amount of my time outside of my regular hours sorting, buying, planning and organizing my curriculum and I am seriously starting to rethink the entire point of doing all this. I advertise as a "pre-school" like others do thinking that parents are looking for all the 1,2,3's and ABC's classroom type learning and I really feel as though 99.9% of my current parents are really only looking for a loving, caring, safe environment for their child. They aren't all that concerned about the "schooling" part of it because they all know their kid will get it in Kindy or they will learn from their parents and sibs or they will possibly even pull their child from daycare and put them in an actual "preschool" center as a pp vented about.
We have a good supply of venting on here in regards to parents not caring what craft items and projects their child did during the day and leaving most correspondence and daily notes in the cubby untouched. So I am wondering what the point of doing a preschool curriculum with dck's is when we, as providers, are collectively just trying to get the parents all to pay on time, remember our house rules, drop off/pick up on time, respect us and support us as we assist their child in learning developmentally appropriate skills such as toilet training, eating healthy foods, napping quietly and using self-help skills.
Another poster got me thinking about how tough it is to fit all this stuff into one day and I have to say, why are we trying? If we are not licensed to teach pre-school and are licensed as family childcare providers, why are we all trying so hard to do so much more?
I would think in this crazy, two parent working long hours, too many extra curricular activities and all world, kids would benefit much more (and have less challenging behaviors) if we only focused on the basic necessities and just played with them. No scheduled craft time, no strict routines to follow...just on the floor, hands-on fun stuff....lots of love and nurturing. No stress over trying to get Timmy to figure out why a "b" and a "d" are not the same.....
I went to a "NO TV" childcare in December and my dck's have been playing in ways I did not know they could so I am seriously thinking about just having a "Basics Only" childcare. I don't get paid any more than the regular going rate and all the families I have enrolled in the last few years are only looking for someone they can trust who will put her kids needs (the basic ones) ahead of her own. No one has been looking for a teacher or a tutor. I still will have all the activities and supplies I always have had but it will be up to them when and how they play with them. dck #1 might paint at 9:00 am while dck #2 might not paint until 3:00 pm. No structured activity...do what you want when you want. Just meals and nap/rest time on schedule.
Two rules will apply;
1. Play nicely/respectfully.
2. Pickup after yourself.
Learning will still be part of our day, just in a completely non-structured, non-routine, stress-free manner.
I always wanted to be licensed to run an actual preschool, but I am not. I am a licensed FAMILY CHILD CARE provider. I do not get paid any more than the regular going rate set by our county. I feel this will be less stressful and eliminate my need for the curriculum drama I go through every year.
Just wondering what everyone else's thoughts are on this....
I do it to add excitement to our day
give us something to talk about
I believe parents do want and value this in childcare. I don't charge extra and pay for it out of my pocket. My rates are what I feel are fair.
I don't take on a big group of kids to make tons of money
I like the small group care that brings a sense of family away from family or extended family, security for the kids
I do what works for the day and look for a balance.
I believe in exposing kids to many experiences. Is the two year old going to understand everything about the Letter "C" No, they might only understand the concept of C is a letter, or C is the first letter of a friends name, or C and Cat look good together. It's exposure. Parents are so busy when they get home, they don't read to the kids or expose them to much anything except the TV and anything that equates to my kid is so cute.
I feel play is vital and if we are having a great play day we go with that.
I believe all kids learn differently and exposing them is key to learning opportunities. I believe basic skills are all high priority. Learning self control skills is key to a great start with kindergarten and that sets them up for years of schooling. Teachers want to see kids coming into K ready to learn, that can do basic skills, academics is the least of importance, they want to see kids that can listen, follow simple directions, get along with peers. I feel if you teach a bit of that in small scale setting doing some of what they will be asked to do for K they will be ahead of the game and eager to learn.
I did my own preschool program last year and it was a ton of work prepping and putting together. I loved every minute of it. This year I wanted to simplify a bit and went with a bought Curriculum MGT. I am loving it. It has every day laid out for me, shows what the kids are learning, subjects covered etc... and gives me enough to pick and choose what will work for the day with my kids. If I do it all, great. If I don't. I don't fret. I would like to say that I am a balance of child led and adult led. If my projects don't look like the sample, no biggie. We cover a lot, learn new songs, look forward to little surprises, like what is going to happen today for an activity. I was the same way when I did my own program. Some kids want more, some kids need less. I go with the flow and am able to do this with a small group.
I am not a teacher with a degree but I am an awesome preschool teacher! I don't advertise as a preschool. I do more because I want to do more. I want my days to be full of opportunities and experiences. I want something to look forward to doing with my kiddo's, other then just play- we do play and we do that well too. Loving, caring, safe is top priority and a given here. I like a little structure, because true life is not one free for all, all day. I really strive for a good balance. I know when I am off balance and need to revamp and that is when I look outside the box again and start again. I love what I do and that is why I do it.
Best- Hope this helps you BC-
misslori50 08:34 AM 12-16-2013
we dont do curriculum we are a play based center. The kids are let explore, imagine, do art figure out on their own what THEY want to do. We do no formal learning. We use the surroundings to learn counting and letters. Set up a learning environment and let them have at it. http://www.playcountsdenitadinger.blogspot.com/
http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/643130139044874/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7y6...&feature=share
http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/643130139044874/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7y6...&feature=share
sunlight 07:39 AM 12-18-2013
I have been providing a boxed curriculum for the last 5-6 years. When I first started I was using Funshine Express and really liked it. I was charging an extra $25 a month from parents and they had no problem paying it. The last couple of years I have switched my preschool curriculum to Early Start Fun Learning. The parents like it more because it is more kid friendly. With Funshine I had to make most of the crafts myself because it was to hard for the kids. With my new curriculum it is easy for the kids and all the projects look like the kids made them not me. I don't charge extra for this curriculum because for the last couple of years with the economy changing parents don't want to pay extra for anything. What I can tell you is that when I get a call almost every single parent I do talk to asks me if I provide a preschool curriculum and that they are looking for that in a daycare. So, I do feel pressure to provide that. Because I am a Family Child Care and take care of different age groups it's hard to focus on preschool daily. I am not a center so do the very best I can. So far everyone seems happy. Plus its a nice addition to our day to do some school work.
Hope this helps Black Cat
Hope this helps Black Cat
Unregistered 12:15 PM 04-03-2014
Most parents see daycare as a business transaction. Service provided and paid for. It's so much more. There's a huge emotional attachment taking an infant all the way through to preschool years- you spend more time with that child than their own grandparents. I often find parents don't get it- but the children do! All the spintaneous I love yous and amazement in their eyes as they learn and laugh - it's a magical job! Look to the parents for payment - look to the children for appreciation !
In MA a curriculum is required for family childcare educators. Simply done I cover common core concepts in every theme and incorporate several themes per month. For example Arctic animals... Stories based on the Arctic, science with ice and water and small figures, polar bear math - matching numbers, polar bear hokey pokey- put your polar bear paws in, etc babies enjoy songs, poems movement (usually in my arms) and stories. Hopefully a am nap coincides with a messy table project- if not then its time for baby to enjoy sensory play in highchair- maybe "paint" with squash - safe if baby decides to eat - as I simultaneously watch the messy station. Daily I provide a sheet listing meals served, stories, fine motor, gross motor, craft/theme and individual interests(areas they were interested in most). I never watch tv however when our theme allows it I love a 5 min bbc you tube video on our topic- live polar bears video in their environment - awesome learning tool. Some children will learn quicker than others - it's the exposure to authentic learning environments that prepares the children.
I provide quality care but I am not a babysitter - I rarely sit - and really hate being referred to as one. In my opinion your rates should reflect the high end of daycare center fees. In a home the curriculum is tailored to specific children enrolled.
I pride myself in knowing the children that enroll as babies and leave for kindergarten Are prepared for the next phases of education. Parents have brought their children to formal prek at 4 and I'm very happy for them. I know I've done well and I am sad to see them go. Some children need a larger group of children. Home care of 6 and then attend kindergarten with 25 can be difficult.
Best of luck!
!In MA a curriculum is required for family childcare educators. Simply done I cover common core concepts in every theme and incorporate several themes per month. For example Arctic animals... Stories based on the Arctic, science with ice and water and small figures, polar bear math - matching numbers, polar bear hokey pokey- put your polar bear paws in, etc babies enjoy songs, poems movement (usually in my arms) and stories. Hopefully a am nap coincides with a messy table project- if not then its time for baby to enjoy sensory play in highchair- maybe "paint" with squash - safe if baby decides to eat - as I simultaneously watch the messy station
. Daily I provide a sheet listing meals served, stories, fine motor, gross motor, craft/theme and individual interests(areas they were interested in most). I never watch tv however when our theme allows it I love a 5 min bbc you tube video on our topic- live polar bears video in their environment - awesome learning tool. Some children will learn quicker than others - it's the exposure to authentic learning environments that prepares the children. I provide quality care but I am not a babysitter - I rarely sit - and really hate being referred to as one. In my opinion your rates should reflect the high end of daycare center fees. In a home the curriculum is tailored to specific children enrolled.
I pride myself in knowing the children that enroll as babies and leave for kindergarten Are prepared for the next phases of education. Parents have brought their children to formal prek at 4 and I'm very happy for them. I know I've done well and I am sad to see them go. Some children need a larger group of children. Home care of 6 and then attend kindergarten with 25 can be difficult.
Best of luck!