Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning.  But for children play is serious learning.  Play is really the work of childhood.

Fred Rogers

2317 Highway 42
Willow Spring, NC 27592
ph 919 557-4449

Hours of Operation:
6:30 am to 6:00 pm
Monday through Friday

Ages Served: 6 weeks through 5 years

 

What are the center’s hours of operation? 

The center provides care Monday through Friday 6:30 am to 6:00 pm.

I am just beginning to look for child care and have no idea what questions to ask.  What are some things to consider when searching for child care?

  • Is the center licensed? If so, what is the current star rating?
     
  • Are the materials and equipment sufficient for the number of children and in good repair?
     
  • Is the facility clean?
     
  • Is your initial reaction upon arriving a positive one?
     
  • Were you greeted upon arrival?
     
  • Listen to the sounds in the center.  Are they mostly happy?
     
  • Does the center staff interact with the children in a positive manner?
     
  • What is the center’s staff to child ratio?
     
  • Are there enough adults to care for the children?
     
  • What sanitary practices did you observe? Hand washing? Clean faces? Toys washed? Tables and floors clean?
     
  • What is the method of communication between the center and parents?
     
  • Is there an open door policy?
     
  • What is the center’s policy for sick children?
     
  • What security measures are in place to assure the safety of the children?
     
  • If you were a child, is this the place you would want to spend your day?

What are your teacher qualifications?

Our minimum standards are the North Carolina Division of Child Development’s enhanced standards.  This means that at least 75% of our lead teachers have at least 12 semester hours in early childhood education and 1 year of verifiable child care experience.  50% of our associate teachers must have at least 6 semester hours in early childhood education.  In addition, all employees must provide at least three references, submit an approved physical with a negative TB test and submit a criminal background check. Many of our employees either have earned degrees in Early Childhood Education, or are currently pursuing one.

What is the center’s staff to child ratios?

Our staff to child ratios vary with the age of the children.  They are: Infants 1 to 4, Toddlers 1 to 6, Twos 1 to 8, Threes 1 to 9 and Fours 1 to 13.

Is it necessary to make an appointment to visit the center?

While it is not required that you make an appointment to visit the center, we do suggest that you call ahead to let us know you plan to visit.  We know how valuable your time is and we want to make certain someone is available to take the time needed to answer all your questions during your visit.

What curriculum does the center use?

The center uses the Creative Curriculum as the framework for learning.  The Creative Curriculum is one of the early childhood curriculums approved by the North Carolina Division of Child Development.  In addition the center uses Wonder-Filled Weekdays as the faith-based curriculum.  This curriculum provides age appropriate Bible stories, songs and memory verses.

How do you help children transition into the center?

We recommend that you and your child visit the center several times prior to their enrollment taking affect.  This give the child an opportunity to meet their teacher and classroom before you leave them the first day.  For many children several visits are sufficient.  There are, however, situations when more time is needed to help the child feel comfortable in the center.  We view the parent as the expert on their child and will seek your recommendation on how to best help your child adjust to their new environment.

Do you follow Wake County School’s closing schedule during inclement weather?

Our center does not follow Wake County’s schedule during inclement weather.  We will make every effort to remain open during inclement weather but will close if we deem it to be hazardous for the children or our faculty to be here.  You may check the center voicemail or watch WRAL-TV for updates on center closings or delays.  In the event that the center closes early we will make every attempt to contact the parents and ask them to pick their child up early.  All decisions to close are made on a case by case basis.

What do we need to bring to the center for our child?

Each child needs to have at least two changes of clothing, including underwear and socks, in the center at all times.  The center does have blankets but you may prefer to bring a small blanket from home for your child to use during nap.  We have plenty of toys so we ask that you do not permit your child to bring toys from home, except for a small comfort toy that may be used for nap.  If your child is not toilet trained you must also provide diapers and wipes.  Infant families must provide all food until the child is able to eat from our school menu.