Here are two myths about childcare facilities that lots of parents believe.
Facilities with smaller groups are better than those with larger ones
When deciding which childcare facility they should place their child in, parents will often specifically look for facilities that have small numbers of children per group, because they assume that this is always preferable to facilities where the groups or classrooms contain the maximum number of children that is permitted. This is not always correct. The truth is that some children do better in facilities where they're placed in large groups whilst other children are happier when they're in places with small groups.
For example, if a child is naturally extroverted and gregarious, then they will probably find being in a group with lots of other kids hugely enriching and enjoyable, as they'll have so many opportunities to befriend and play with others. Conversely, if a child is sensitive, introverted and experiences sensory overload when they're in crowded, busy settings, then they might find being in a big group overwhelming and unpleasant and might become too frazzled to learn or socialise. This type of child would probably prefer and do better in a small group that would be a bit calmer and would give them a chance to make one or two close friends.
A childcare facility that only has basic amenities won't help a child to thrive
Some parents are also of the opinion that a childcare facility that doesn't have a wealth of educational materials and a top-of-the-line playground won't enable a child to thrive. This is a total myth, which can make parents who can't afford to utilise high-end childcare facilities feel worried about how their kids will cope in the basic facilities they need to put them in.
Whilst it's certainly nice for children to have access to the best outdoor equipment and indoor educational tools, children can just as easily thrive in a facility that provides basic amenities. All a young child really needs is a clean and safe open space in which they and their friends can play, some basic toys that they can use to make up their own games and exercise their imagination, and a few other items, like picture books, paints and building blocks, that will enable them to learn about shapes, numbers and words. If a childcare facility has these basic things and its employees are enthusiastic and engaged, the children who attend this facility will do just as well as those in places with much fancier materials.
For more information, contact a local childcare centre.
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