more... > Childcare > Be Child Care Aware > Quality Child Care > Several Factors Come Into Play When Selecting Quality Child Care A variety of factors should be considered when parents are attempting to find quality child care for their children. While cost and convenience are important considerations, parents should also consider their children’s ages, abilities, interests and personalities. Beliefs and attitudes about education, training, child guidance, nutrition and health are also major considerations. Be Child Care Aware: Follow Safety Tips To Ensure Summertime Fun [Image: kids in pool] Summer is here, and outdoor play ranks as a favorite activity for most young children. But that means safety also should be a concern for parents and caregivers, according to LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe. Shop For Quality Child Care With more and more parents working and the need for child care increasing, parents need to plan carefully for quality child care for their children. You can do many things to become a better consumer of quality child care, according to LSU AgCenter specialist Dr. Becky White. Don’t Let Child Care Choices Overwhelm You (Distributed July 2006) Choosing the right kind of child care is one of the most daunting tasks any parent will ever have to do. Countless emotions flood a new mother at the mere thought of letting someone else care for her tiny bundle of joy.  more articles... Be Child Care Aware: Help Toddlers Learn Not To Bite Biting is a common behavior for children who are one year to two years old – particularly children in group care. Child Care Center Director Qualifications - Do You Have What it Takes? Directing a child-care program is exhausting, not to mention complicated, so it is paramount that a dedicated, knowledgeable person oversees these operations. This article will explore some of the many qualifications needed to be an effective child care center director. Outdoor Play Provides Rich Environment For Learning Children need to spend time outdoors. This article discusses ways to asses the safety of playgrounds for young children. Understanding Infants, Toddlers May Eliminate Biting Behaviors Toddlers bite because it is a natural part of their growth and development. This article will look at some strategies parents and caregivers alike can implement to prevent biting behavior. Appropriate Toys for Appropriate Ages [Image: child playing with toy in sand] It’s critical for child-care providers to choose wisely because the right toy can stimulate child development. Policies That Exclude Sick Children Protect Others Child-care programs have sick child policies in place for the safety and protection of the children they serve. Infants, Toddlers Need Environment That’s Welcoming, Responsive Infants and toddlers need environments that are welcoming and responsive. Local Agencies Help Families Make Informed Decisions About Child Care Child Care Resource and Referral Programs provide free assistance to families who are actively searching for care and need help with making informed decisions about the best care for their children. Quality Caregiver Makes Difference; Know What To Look For To assist in making decisions about quality child care, parents can look for certain personal traits when selecting a caregiver for their child. Planning Healthy Menus Helps Ensure Healthy Children Planning healthy menus to help ensure healthy children. Click for more information...