Choosing a child
care center for your child is never an easy task. Our checklist can
assist you in asking the right questions to determine the quality of
care your child will receive at our center and others. This information
will help you select the best child care setting for your child and
family.
A Checklist for
Choosing Quality Child Care
Program: The
center's program and environment should foster the growth and
development of young children working and playing together.
Are the rooms
equipped with toys and educational materials that are age
appropriate and developmentally sound?
Are there
enough materials and equipment available and in good condition
that are easily accessible by the children?
Are learning
centers or play areas well defined?
Are there a
variety of activities that the children can select from?
Does the daily
schedule allow for both active and quiet play?
Is the program
based on the developmental needs and interests of children in
each age group?
Are children
encouraged to work alone as well as in small groups?
Are there
daily lesson plans with activities and objectives for the
children?
Do the
children appear to be happy and engaged in purposeful play?
Are parents
encouraged to visit anytime?
Do children
have cubbies or places to keep their belongings from home?
Staff: The staff
should enjoy and understand how young children grow and learn.
Is the
Director a degreed professional who inspires confidence?
Are the staff
trained in Early Childhood Education?
Does the staff
appear interested in you and your child's needs?
Are the staff
involved with children, not just directing their activities?
Are the staff
supported by professional resources, training and materials?
Does the staff
communicate about the child's progress?
Are discipline
techniques positive and non-punitive in nature?
Health & Safety
Is the Center
licensed and regularly monitored by your state regulatory
agency?
Are the toilet
facilities clean and accessible? Are diaper changing areas and
procedures sanitary?
Are the food
preparation and serving areas clean?
Does the
facility have an established emergency plan?
Are children
not released to anyone other than those who have written
releases provided?
Are children
supervised at all times?
Are children
and adults required to submit up-to-date medical records?