Run Your Child Care

Offer age-appropriate materials for indoor and outdoor play that help children develop a variety of large muscle skills.

Enter the ages of children, the number of children, and the space available to bring up a variety of physical activity ideas to get children moving and having fun.

Provide materials for children of all age groups that are safe, yet challenging. Keep materials well organized and accessible to children.

Provide a wide selection of books for each age group enrolled. Make book times pleasant and interactive. Have books available in many locations for convenience and use by children.

Provide each age group with items they can use to experiment with quantity, size and shape. Provide materials in a well-organized way that is accessible to children.

Offer ample materials to dig, dump, pour and float. Set up activities to facilitate play.

Provide pictures, books, games and toys for each age group that realistically represent nature. Offer daily outdoor experiences with nature and use every day events to help children learn about nature.

Provide a variety of art materials for children. Encourage individual expression by offering open-ended art activities.

Provide a clear, sturdy space for block play. Have a variety of blocks accessible to each age group to encourage children's creativity. Store blocks (by type) and accessories (vehicles, people, and animals) together.

Have materials accessible to children and organized by type. Provide child-sized furniture and enough materials to carry out meaningful play and promote diversity.

Have music materials, including instruments and recordings, accessible to children of all age groups. Offer a variety of materials that provide children with opportunities to listen to different types of rhythm, tones and music.

Provide child-sized furnishings that offer a substantial amount of softness. Furnishings should be protected from active play and used for reading or relaxation. Space should also include a variety of soft toys.