ENVIORNMENTAL RATING SYSTEMS EASY TIPS 

DISPLAY On child’s eye level Include 3 dimensional objects and items Sculptures, mobiles, and plants Make sure artwork is current Make some of it touchable Children especially toddlers, you can keep it safe by covering the artwork with contact paper WHERE TO PUT DISPLAY?- low bulletin boards, low on the walls, the back and sides of low, open shelves, and ON THE FLOOR. BE CREATIVE! Make sure the materials fit the age group ROTATE THE DISPLAY MONTHLY Talk about the display

BOOKS Make books accessible Keep books in good shape Put books in one location AND in every interest area Read book with children DAILY Have other activities available Rotate books monthly

TV/VIDEO/COMPUTER If used it needs to be in a developmentally appropriate way that adds to the children's experiences Not recommended for children under 2 years old Limit times for 2 year old and older: TV- 30 minutes total once a week COMPUTER- 15 minutes per day NOT recommended during meals and snacks Materials need to fit the age group MAKE TV time interactive and involving View with children Provide alternate activities- reading a book, puzzle

MATERIALS/ACTIVITES Work with what you already have Ask for donations Make and gather home materials-natural items Rotate materials at least monthly

OUTSIDE GO OUTDOORS EVERYDAY (weather permitting) Be flexible with your schedule Make outdoor time ACTIVE time Bring drama, art, blocks and books outside Check playground for hazards

MEALS AND SNACKS SIT WITH THE CHILDREN Talk with the children Wash hands before and after snack Milk and juice should not be left out for more than 1 hour