Parent satisfaction surveys

Introduction
In keeping with our commitment to excellence and quality improvement initiatives, the Ehrlo Early Learning Centre (EELC) conducted its annual parent satisfaction survey. It was the eighth year the survey was conducted at the W.F Ready location, and the first time at the four new locations (Gladys McDonald, Imperial, Ruth Pawson, Wilfrid Walker), which opened this past year.

Overall, the feedback from parents is positive, indicating that the vast majority are satisfied with the care provided to their children, and many parents indicated that the EELC exceeds their expectations in childcare.

Karin Duff, director of Early Learning, is excited by the survey results noting, “All parents’ concerns were discussed amongst the staff in order to alleviate them to the best of our ability. We will incorporate any suggestions that are beneficial to the program and are consistent with our philosophy and approach. We have also just completed our accreditation process whereby no recommendations for changes were made, therefore acknowledging that we are meeting best practice requirements.”

Survey design
All parents from the five EELC locations were provided surveys and 83 of those were returned. The parent satisfaction survey was administered and managed by Karin Duff, director of Early Learning. The survey allowed the EELC to determine areas of excellence as well as areas for improvement at all five of its locations.
The survey asked 14 questions regarding verbal and written communication, programming, fees, cleanliness, nutrition, equipment, staff, atmosphere, and the physical environment.

Results
The results identify numerous areas of strength and improvement at all five locations. Specifically, communication was identified as an area for improvement across all five locations – (communication related to staff changes, child development, between staff, and general information). Additionally, two areas of strength were identified across all five locations – staff (who were seen as friendly, professional, approachable) and activities and programming.

 »  » View the full survey results for all five locations: 2011 EELC parent satisfaction surveys (pdf).