Listed below are important questions to ask before choosing your child's school or childcare center. We've include our answer as a reference point.

 

Is your program or school accredited? DIA is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) which is the highest standard attainable.

 

What curriculum does your school offer? DIA offers The Creative Curriculum which is a researched based educational and developmental curriculum for infants/toddlers and pre-school age children (endorsed by NAEYC).

 

How do you assess my child’s progress? DIA uses two different assessments: The Creative Curriculum Developmental Continuum for Ages 3-5 and The Creative Curriculum Developmental Continuum for Infants, Toddlers, and 2’s. These tools are used by teachers to assess children’s progress and guide them in their curriculum planning. Additionally, we utilize Reference Point, a system for mapping your child's development and progress.

 

What are your teacher to student ratios? DIA is one of only a few facilities in the Charleston region to adopt the high standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which are equal to or above those mandated by the State of South Carolina. (See Chart)

 

How safe is your facility? DIA has a secure lobby with door-control access operated by front desk staff. Only registered and approved caretakers may access your child in the classroom. (All drop-offs and pick-ups occur at the classroom inside the school).

 

How are teachers and staff who work with my child screened? DIA staff must pass a state and federal background check and submit to random drug testing (drug testing is not state requirement, so most child care facilities do not require testing).

 

What are your nutrition standards? DIA provides all meals and snacks which meet high standards for nutrition, including the exclusive use of organic milk. (See Current Weekly Menu)

 

How do you provide for children with allergies? DIA is an allergy-safe facility in which teachers are trained in working with child with allergies. 

 

What special program do you offer? DIA offers a number of supplemental enrichment programs of dance, science, music, tumbling, visual arts, and many more, for our full-day and half-day programs, plus Mother’s Morning Out and Lunch Buddies programs. (See Current Enrichment Programs)

 

Do you offer social opportunities for families? DIA has a very active parents association (PADIA) that holds events throughout the year. Past events have included a Luau for parents, a Fall Family Festival, and special events in each classroom.