How can you decide among several program options? Reviewing this section will guide you in asking those questions most helpful in making a final selection.
Newton POST profiles provide a good deal of basic information about programs. However, further exploration can help you narrow the field and make your choice.
How can you learn more about programs? Some programs produce web sites and newsletters, and may refer you to area families who will share their experiences with you.
The following questions are intended as a guide to help you interview program directors and representatives, and/or make the most of a visit.
NOTE: Do not feel you must use the complete list, since some questions may not apply to certain programs or to your particular situation.
Questions for Class and Recreational Program Personnel:
How long has the program been in operation?
Is the licensing current (if applicable)? Classes and recreational programs do not typically have to be licensed, because individual children generally spend fewer than three hours per day in the direct care of the staff. Talk with the program director, the sponsoring organization, the city licensing department, or the recreation department if you have any questions.
What is the program philosophy? Competitive? Cooperative? When it comes to difficult skills, are participants (a) required to attempt mastery, (b) encouraged to do their best, or (c) allowed to refuse participation? Does the program or its sponsors promote certain ideologies?
How many children (boys? girls?) attend this program?
Do you offer “trial classes?"
What about program-home communication? How and when do you communicate with families? Phone? Email? When issues arise, or on a regular basis? Can I have a quick chat with a staff person at drop-off or pick-up time? Are parents allowed to just "drop in" for a visit?
What about program closings? If the program is closed due to inclement weather or other reasons, how will I be notified? Will canceled classes be made up, or will you offer a refund/credit? Are you closed for holidays or vacations?
What about illnesses? What is your sick-child policy? Do you offer credits or make-up classes?
What is the director's or leader's background? What is your experience with children? How long have you been with this program?
What about the staff? Are staff members paid or are they volunteers? (Many community- or religious-based programs are staffed by volunteers.) What are their backgrounds and experiences with children? What specific training have they received? Do they know basic first aid and CPR? What is the average age or age range? What are the adult:child ratios? Are background/CORI checks current and on file? If my child is uncomfortable with a particular staff member, how will you respond?
What is your safety record? Have there been serious injuries or incidents at your program? If so, tell me about the circumstances. What changes were made as a result?
Tell me about the program facilities and grounds. Are buildings and grounds safe, clean, and up-to-code?
How are children grouped? By age, grade, or skill level?
What about health and safety issues? Are emergency escape routes well marked? What specific health/safety equipment and supplies, beyond a first aid kit, are available to the staff? Defibrillator? Epi-pens? Other? If my child has special health concerns, such as physical conditions, cancer, diabetes, or food allergies, who will be my on-site partner in assuring my child's well-being? What is his/her experience with our special concerns?
What about outdoor health and safety concerns? If my child will be spending a great deal of time outside, tell me about sunblock and insect repellent application, hydration opportunities, foul-weather gear, etc.
Specialty sports program safety. Tell me about the staff/teachers (see staff questions above). How do you help ensure my child's safety, whether he/she is swimming, rock climbing, playing hockey, dancing, cheerleading, or other?
What, if any, parent involvement is expected or encouraged? Volunteering time, fundraising, other?
Does this program include any field trips, overnights, travel, camping?
Do you have any kind of dress code? Do you have any requirements or suggestions about what my child should/should not wear to the class/program – including footwear and jewelry?
What about transportation specifics? If you provide transportation, what are the additional costs? Are the bus stops convenient for us? Do teachers/staff members ride the bus, or is the driver the only adult on board? Are drivers screened and trained? Are vehicles inspected? Will the program help us arrange carpools with other families?
What about fees, forms, additional costs, and financial aid? Please tell me about your fees and payment schedules. When is my child's health history due? Have I forgotten to ask about any costs? (Must I purchase any additional insurance?) How do you determine eligibility for any scholarships? Do you offer member discounts?
Tell me about extras. What special equipment, supplies, uniforms, etc., will my child need to purchase or provide? What does the program provide? What additional fees (if any) are associated with the program?
What if my child does not like the program? Do you offer credits or refunds? If so, within what time frame?
