Choosing Child Care

Some things to check when making decisions

You are the person who knows best what you and your child need in a child care setting. The following are some things the Child Care Aware project for quality child care suggests are good ways to measure the quality of a child care home or center.

The Caregivers/Teachers

• seem to really like children
• get down to the child's level to speak to the child
• greet the children when they arrive
• meet the children's needs, even when they are busy are involved in continuing education, including first aid/CPR and the ways children grow and learn
• are ready to answer your questions about your child and the activities he/she is involved in

The Setting

• is pleasant, bright, child-oriented, and safe
• is a space where children are encouraged to explore and create
• has areas for quiet and active play and resting for individuals and groups
• has both indoor and outdoor play spaces in all weather has a variety of safe equipment both indoors and outdoors, in a fenced, easily supervised space large enough for the numbers of children cared for

Activities

• There is a flexible daily plan so children can depend on certain things at certain times (play, rest, food) This plan balances group play, time alone, quiet, active, and rest times.
• There are enough toys, equipment, and materials for all ages in care and TV plays only a small part in the program.
• Toys are clean, safe, age appropriate, and within reach of the children.
• Children are encouraged to do as much as they can for themselves
• Infants are given space to crawl, walk, and play out of playpens, swings, and seats.

Other Things to Consider

• Do you agree with the discipline practices? Do adults explain clearly to children what is expected in words they can understand?
• Do you hear sounds of happy children, actively engaged in fun activities?
• Are children comforted when they need it?
• Are drop-in visits from parents supported?
• Is the program licensed or registered? If not, why not?