Choosing the right early childhood education program for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. The early years of child development are crucial for putting children on the path to a lifelong love of learning. That's why it's essential for parents to ask important questions before choosing any potential childcare provider.

Cherokee Academy at Clayton in Canton, GA, understands the challenges parents face when choosing infant day care or toddler care. As experts in early childhood education and development, they recommend parents ask the following questions before choosing a Pre-K program:

• What Are Your Teachers' Qualifications? Reputable early childhood education programs employ instructors who have studied childhood development and have prior experience in the field. You can also ask about employee turnover rates and child-to-teacher classroom ratios.
• What Will My Child's Schedule Be Like? Ask your potential childcare provider about things like naps and meals, as well as time spent indoors versus outdoors. Also, ask how they will handle your child's transition to a new routine.
• What Kind Of Activities Do You Offer? In addition to their early childhood education curriculum, many childcare programs enrich their learning environment with field trips, outside presenters, sports and dance programs, and more.
• How Do You Discipline Children? This question is not merely about punishment for bad behavior, but also about rewards for good behavior. Ask how their early childhood education program supports and encourages good behavior in students as well as how they handle misbehavior.
• What Are Your Procedures For Sickness Or Other Emergencies? It's important to know what the center's sick child policies are. This can help you set up a backup childcare plan if your child is sick and can't attend daycare.

Asking the right questions of a potential childcare provider will help give you peace of mind. Parents should also listen to their gut instincts when touring a facility. While there's no place like home, finding the answers to these questions will help you find the next best thing.

If you are in the Canton area and seeking high-quality infant day care, toddler care, or Pre-K classes, consider Cherokee Academy at Clayton. Their experienced and dedicated staff works hard to make their learning environment engaging and nurturing. Visit them online to learn more and call (770) 479-4404 to schedule a tour of their facility.