2002-2003 QUALITY AWARD RECIPIENTS   Each year the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County gives the "Quality Award" to those child care providers whose school readiness early education and care programs meet the highest quality standards.  To determine this, every school readiness child care provider receives an unannounced program evaluation. Congratulations to the following providers for earning the Coalition’s top award!   Whanda Otero-Dura Family Child Care Home   The Gingerbread House/BVL Licensed Center   UCP Kissimmee Licensed Center

A perfect score of 100% in the following categories must be achieved to earn the Quality Award:

Health & Safety

1.	The environment and equipment are clean, disinfected and free from noxious odors.
2.	Indoor play areas are arranged to avoid safety hazards.
3.	Outdoor play areas are free from safety hazards..
4.	Adequate supervision is observed and provider meets state mandated staff-to-child ratios.
5.	Children’s physical needs are attended to properly.
6.	Emergency numbers, procedures, and allergies are posted.
7.	Established and written illness policy and procedures are in place.
8.	A written plan to address a child’s specific needs is in place.
9.	Personal items are clearly labeled.
10.	Bottles are not placed in cribs or propped up at anytime.
11.	Proper hygiene techniques, such as frequent hand washing, are used during diaper time and toileting.
12.	Adult models proper health practices to encourage a child’s independence toward self help skills.
13.	Parents are informed of pets which are in good health, even-tempered, and have documented shots.
14.	Litter boxes, pet food and other poisonous items are kept out of children's reach.

Developmentally Appropriate Programs (DAP)

1.	A written program philosophy that includes DAP is established and implemented.
2.	Daily routines are planned and provide a balance of DAP activities in the following areas: reading readiness, language/communication, math readiness, creative expression, fine/gross motor skills, music &movement, science & sensory, and nutrition & cooking.
3.	Program offers a variety of DAP materials, experiences, and self-selected choices to children.
4.	Daily schedule is posted and followed by program staff.
5.	Daily routine provides age-appropriate time management for self-selected activities.
6.	A balance of activities that foster individual, small group, and large group interactions and experiences.

Age-Appropriate Screenings

1.	Correct equipment to perform Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) are available and used..
2.	The provider has completed training by the 4C Early Intervention Division regarding proper use of the ASQ screening instrument.
3.	The provider is in compliance of all screening requirements.

Character Development

1.	The provider models, respects, and supports individual similarities & differences.
2.	The provider encourages positive DAP social behaviors in children.
3.	The provider encourages anti-biased curriculum, interactions, and environment.
4.	The provider empowers children by asking open-ended questions and interacting respectfully at the child’s eye level.
5.	The child’s social and emotional needs are attended to promptly and positively.

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