44 Hawaii Parent NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 students? Or is it made by the helping hands of teachers? Art should be just that: a creation by your student no matter their age. In addition, check that supplies and toys are readily available to little hands at eye level. There should be more than just crayons and paint; check for the big five: imaginative play, art, a quiet library, tactile play (blocks, etc.), science/math area, and gross motor/outdoor play. Remember, if your center is concerned with how well a child is playing, their educational success will follow suit no matter the teaching theory being followed. Play is serious business, and it should be purposeful and naturally encouraged throughout the day. STAFF AND CLASSROOM RATIOS The state of Hawaii provides guidelines for the hiring and necessary experience qualifications and education requirements for the staff of every center. Lead teachers are the most highly qualified, and assistants and aides have different qualification requirements. Ask your tour guide who is the lead teacher in your child’s classroom and ask this person your questions directly. If your teacher is not there on your initial tour, come back and meet him or her. It is important to get an in-person opinion of the human responsible for caring for your child and to see how your child responds to this person. Teacher-tochild ratios are also regulated by the state and vary based on the age of the children, type of child care facility, and, for
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