Chyanne Summerlin
ECS 280
August 3,2014
Week 3: Trends

Today in childcare there are a lot of trends happen. From Quality rating systems to accredited programs the childcare system has definitely changed for the better. We want nothing the best for our children, and when searching for childcare we look for the most qualified care. So we search for the program with the best ratings and the least to none out of compliances.

One trend I see happening and being talked about are the childcare programs with the quality rating. The step up to quality program sets certain standards for the childcare programs to meet. On October 1, 2013 Ohio had begun the implementation of the revised five star quality rating and improvement system. Step up to quality is Ohio's quality rating and improvement system for licensed learning and development programs. Step up to quality recognizes learning and development programs that exceed licensing health and safety standards. Supports and incentives are available to assist programs in achieving and maintaining a star rating.

The step up to quality program standards have been expanded from 3 to 5 levels and have been revised to include family and community engagement and health promotion standards.

Another trend that is happening is a program starting to create and following curriculums. Research indicated that quality is enhanced when a curriculum is thoughtfully and purposefully incorporated into the childcare setting. Choosing to implement curriculum as caregivers plan meaningful activities enhance classroom interactions and increase our understanding of child development.
Involving the caregivers in the decision-making process makes the process a lot easier because we know the children personally and we know their strengths and weaknesses. In order to know what areas to focus on it is important to know as much about your