Home For Parents Choosing Quality Childcare
How To Choose Quality Childcare Print E-mail
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1. STAFF

All childcare centers say that they have preschool programs and trained staff, but do any of them list their staff credentials to teach?  The state minimum requirements to work in any licensed center are 18 years of age and a high school diploma.  When schools advertise educated staff or teachers meeting state requirements, you should be sure to ask the education level and experience of the staff.  Do they have Bachelor Degrees, Associate Degrees, CDA certification, etc.? Do they treat children with respect, flexibility and patience? Are they able to meet your child's developmental and emotional needs? Is there a sufficient number to meet the needs of all children in the classroom? Do they greet your child and discuss your child with you? Do they practice good personal hygiene?

2. FACILITY

Does it feature safe indoor and outdoor areas and equipment? Does it have orderly, clean work areas? It is an airy, well-lit and attractive room with bright colors? Does it have sanitary bathrooms and diaper-changing areas?

3. HEALTH AND SAFETY

Are the room temperatures comfortable? Are there rounded table corners and other furniture safety features? Are there non-toxic play materials? Is a first-aid kit visible? Are healthy snacks and/or meals featured? What is the process for dropping off and picking up your child? Is the kitchen area clean? Is hand washing practiced? Are there separate cribs for infants and separate cots/mats for others? Are cleaning materials and medicines kept safely out of reach of children?

4. PROGRAM

Is there a proper child-staff ratio, and if it is a licensed facility, is it within designated guidelines? Do you observe creative play? Are there plenty of play and educational materials? Is there an organized schedule or program? Is there supervised rest time? Is there minimal, supervised TV time? Does the provider read stories?

5. GENERAL

Is there a license or registration certificate on file, if applicable? Are the rules clearly explained? How is good behavior encouraged? Are other parents visiting or involved with children? Are children allowed to get dirty naturally through play? Are any children left out? Do you see laughing, caring, sharing, and generally happy children?

 


IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF:

  1. What's your gut feeling about the facility?  Usually your first instinct is the one to follow.
  2. Is the staff friendly and do they greet you when you come for a visit?  Even an unexpected one?  Do they seem genuinely happy to see you or view you as another issue to deal with?
  3. Do you hear signs of happy and/or busy children?
  4. What types of meals are served and would you eat them?
  5. Is there a curriculum and frequent parent feedback?

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