Ensuring all children have access to
high quality early childhood education.
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Tips for Parents

As a parent, your first concerns are for the health, safety and welfare of your child.

Here are some things you can do to make an
informed decision about the program that’s
best for your child:

  1. Observe the environment. 
    • Watching and listening in the classroom will tell you a great deal. Do the children seem to enjoy the activities? Do they appear to be happy? Do the teachers present a loving and nurturing environment? Are they responsive to the children? Can you feel good about entrusting your child into the care of the teachers of this program?
  2. Get questions answered. 
    • Write down questions or concerns as they occur to you. Ask for time to have your questions or concerns addressed.

Quality factors and questions to keep in mind include:

Curriculum

  • What is your child being taught?
  • Can you have a copy of the standards being used by the preschool?s
  • Are healthy meals and snacks available as part of the program?
  • Is your child’s teacher trained to teach young children?
  • Is the program staff warm and inviting?
  • Is the children’s work displayed on the walls?
  • Is the classroom bright and cheery?
  • Are there learning stations for the children where they can learn through play?
  • Do the children look happy in their learning environment?
  • Are all the children engaged in a learning activity?
  • Do they provide a daily schedule that includes time for storybook reading, songs and free play every day, and a nap for full-day programs?
  • Do they have a plan and resources in place to help children who need extra support or for those with disabilities?
  • Does the classroom provide opportunities for social interaction and child choice throughout the day?
  1. Listen to your instincts. 
    • Trust your instincts and your ability to make wise decisions for your child. You know him or her best. Watch for any signs during your visit that make you feel uneasy. Can you picture your child here? What was his or her reaction upon visiting? Remember, too, that other factors could influence him or her, like being hungry or tired, etc.

A Good Choice

Now that you have done your homework and some careful thinking, you are ready to make your choice. Remember, selecting and placing your child in an early learning program is just the beginning. You will want to talk to the new teacher often and make occasional visits to ensure that your child is safe and happy and that your decision was the right one.

Step 1: Do I Qualify?

Our goal is to provide families with equal access to quality options. First, let’s see if you qualify for a publicly funded program.

FIND OUT

Step 2: My Options?

Thanks for asking. The importance of your child’s development begins even before birth. If you are on this site, you are likely in the crucial development years for your child. So, what are your best available options in providing quality care?

YOUR OPTIONS

Step 3: Apply & Complete Application

If you would now like to enroll your child in the Avoyelles Parish Early Childhood Network, fill out the enrollment application. Upon completion, you will be contacted with follow-up information.

COMPLETE APPLICATION