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Child Care Checklist

There are many things to consider when choosing child care. Please read the list below or download our Child Care Checklist to keep with you as you visit potential child care providers. This list can also be used to help you periodically evaluate if the provider you have chosen is still right for you and your child.

Make Sure you Visit and Ask Questions

Make a Choice

Use our checklist as a guide. Think about what you saw at each visit, and make the best choice for your child and family. Follow your instincts.

Stay Involved

The work isn't over when you find good care for your child. It's important to stay involved and communicate with your caregiver on a regular basis. Even if you can't get time off from work during the day, you can still check in at drop-off and pick-up times. Ask the caregiver how things are going, and how your child is doing.

Visiting and participating in events at your child's provider sends a strong message. It tells your child and your child's caregiver that you think what your child is doing and learning is important.

Checklist

The following points are good ways to measure the quality of a child care home or center:

	Caregivers/Teachers
	Seem to really like children
	Get down on each child's level to speak to the child
	Children are greeted when they arrive
	Children's needs are quickly met even when things get busy
	Are trained in CPR, first aid, and early childhood education
	The program keeps up with children's changing interests
	Your questions are welcomed
	There is communication about your child's daily activities
	Parents' ideas are welcomed. There are ways for you to get involved
	The adults and children obviously enjoy being together
	There appears to be enough adults to serve the children?
	Caregivers/teachers are trained and experienced. They are involved in continuing education programs.
	They have participated in early childhood development classes.

	Setting
	The atmosphere is bright and pleasant
	Is there a fenced-in outdoor play area with a variety of safe equipment? Can the adults see the entire playground at all times?
	Are there different areas for resting, quiet play and active play? Is there enough space for the children in all of these areas?

	Activities
	Is there a daily balance of play time, story time, activity time and nap time?
	Are the activities right for each age group?
	Are there enough toys and learning materials for the number of children?
	Are toys clean, safe and within reach of the children?

	In General
	Do you agree with the discipline practices?
	Do you hear the sounds of happy children?
	Are children comforted when needed?
	Is the program licensed or regulated?
	Are surprise visits by parents encouraged?
	Will your child be happy there?