Stacy Innerst, Post-Gazette Click photo for larger image.

A: Well, yes, we believe we can be objective -- because what you're talking about is exactly what we do every day.

We understand that expectations about jobs and family life necessitate a constant juggling act -- that's just the way it is these days. But we believe that you can be a confident, guilt-free working parent, because early care and education for young children is a highly developed profession ready to support you.

Your first step is to find a quality program for your child. Accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is the best-known measure of quality. Look for accredited programs on the NAEYC webite: www.naeyc.org

		Parenting 4 Kids Nationally accredited, 4 Kids Early Learning Network serves children and families throughout the Mon Valley. Through this column, 4 Kids staff members answer reader questions about raising children in the critical early years. E-mail questions for consideration to: questions@4kidsearlyed.org, or mail to: 4 Kids Questions, 445 Fourth St., Braddock, PA 15104.

An accredited program will provide:

A balance of education, recreation, nutrition, and rest in a consistent daily schedule

An educated and well-trained staff

Good staff retention with consistent classroom teachers

An environment that is safe, stimulating, and nurturing

Curricula with a scientific basis and proven effectiveness

Excellent daily communication with parents

Comprehensive assessments to track each child's progress

Our job is to fill each child's day with fun and experiential learning. Along the way, the children also learn the social skills they'll need later in school and throughout life: listening, taking turns, sharing, making good choices, and being persistent and patient.

Many of the children in our care are with us for 10 or 11 hours each day, and they are thriving -- their parents and we ourselves see it clearly.

We -- and other quality programs -- respect parents both in their roles as parents and in their career choices. And we think that the mere fact that you are considering your own mother's concerns indicates that you will be a caring and dynamic parent. We wish you the best!