Before you Accept a New Position

You've completed the application and aced the interview. Before you accept any new position, you may want to consider some crucial factors about the program and workplace. Ask your potential employer if you can observe the program in action for a few hours. If they decline, it may be a sign of trouble!

While observing your potential workplace, you may want to consider the following:

• Does there appear to be adequate adult supervision? What is the ratio of children to adults?
• Does it seem to you that people working in this environment are happy with their jobs?
• Are your fellow staff members friendly towards you when they meet you?
• Do the children seem happy and focused on their activities?
• Is the noise level in the play space reasonable? Is there enough sound to demonstrate that children are happily engaged, but not so loud that children and adults need to yell to be heard?
• Is the classroom well organized?
• Do children have access to toys and games on low shelves, or do adults always have to provide the materials and activities? Is the setting pleasant and inviting?
• Do you notice that children, families and caregivers from a variety of backgrounds are well represented and respected?
• Do caregivers respond to the children and talk in a positive, warm and understanding way?
• Are children getting individual attention?
• Does the play equipment (if any) appear to be in good condition and safe?
• Do you see evidence of positive communication with parents? If you have any serious concerns about any of these issues, you may want to have a discussion with your potential employer. Ask them if they are aware of these problems and what, if anything, they are doing to improve the situation.

Remember, different programs have varying resources. Staff to child ratios, quality of play equipment and availability of toys and books will depend on the funding available to each program. Of primary importance, no matter what resources the program has at its disposal, is that children are treated with care and respect.

Adapted from Caring for California's Children: A Career Guide for Students, Job Seekers, and their Counselors. For further information, contact the Children's Council of San Francisco at 415-243-0700.