Below are some frequently asked questions that may help as you determine your need for Smart Start services:

Q: What is the Environmental Rating Scale (ERS)?

A: The Environmental Rating Scales are tools, which the state will use to measure the “quality” of care offered by programs in North Carolina. The state uses four different scales: the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS-R), the Preschool Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R), the School Age Environment Rating Scale (SACERS) and the Family Day Care Rating Scale (FDCRS). Trained assessors will visit child care programs to observe the children and their environment. Assessors will score programs on how well or how often certain events occur. Assessors will look to see if good health (sanitation) practices occur in each area of the facility. Assessors will check to see how the caregivers interact with children, the use of language, and whether they respond to the children’s needs. Activities will be observed to see whether the children have opportunities to play and learn according to their levels of development. For more information see www.fpg.unc.edu.

Q: How can I become a member of Smart Start?

A: Membership is available to those employed by a child care home or center. We also provide membership privileges to local businesses that would like to provide onsite child care and emergency child care, and would like to check out our free materials. We simply request that potential members fill out an application and come in to tour our facility. Please call 725-6011 or email us.