children s health issues
Child Care
Benefits of care outside the home
Group play stimulates social development. Vigorous indoor or outdoor play and exercise help physical fitness and can dissipate pent-up physical energy. Programs with early exposure to music, books, art, and language stimulate a child's intellectual and creative development. Programs that allow children opportunities to initiate their own activities may help children develop independence. Some programs provide nutritious meals or snacks. There are many resources available through local and national organizations that can help parents assess the quality and safety of child care settings. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports materials provided at theNational Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education web site, which include checklists about good child care environments. 