Management of Physical Facilities of Selected Barangay Day Care Centers in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The physical environment can affect young children's learning and development. All young children appreciate environments that are organized, neat, stimulating, and attractive. According to Republic Act 6972, also known as An Act of Establishing a Day Care Center in Every Barangay, Filipino children up to six years of age deserve the best care and attention at the family and community levels. However, physical facilities of the day care centers in our country, specifically the classrooms, space for outdoor activities, comfort rooms, and others, need special attention from the local government units who are responsible for them.

METHODS

This study was conducted to determine the management of physical facilities of selected barangay day care centers in Los Baños, Laguna. Data was gathered through a self-developed questionnaire complements by key informant interviews, personal observation, and photo documentation of the facility. Three barangay day care centers from the Municipality of Los Baños, Laguna were selected.

RESULTS

It was revealed that the barangay day care centers do not have an operational/work plan. Moreover, the barangay day care centers were dependent on the national government and the local government units for improvement of their physicalfacilities. Classroom space and location were identified to be the major concerns in putting up a barangay day care centers due to rapid increase in the number of children in the community. It was also observed that all learning materials from the three barangay day care centers were developmentally-appropriate for children. Lastly, according to the day care workers, an ideal classroom should have a big space in able to accommodate more students.

DISCUSSIONS

Management functions should be given importanceby the local government units and day care workers in able to manage properly and improve their physical facilities. Without any plan, it will be very difficult to justify requests for replacement or ask for support from private companies, individuals, and group. The physical facilities of the barangay day care centers were observed to be in good and workable condition. However, additional big classrooms, new tables and chairs, learning materials, and toys should be prioritized due to rapid increase of number of children. The local government officials and day care workers should widen their network to seek partnership and support.