What Is Quality Child Care?
Quality child care can make a big difference in the future of your child. You can give your child a head start on a strong and healthy mind, body and spirit. Although quality child care can mean different things to different people, many experts agree that quality care include the following:
Affection & Attention
Is the provider interested in your child as an individual? Do they talk and listen at the child's level? Do they comfort the children when they need it? The provider should be warm, energetic and caring with children.
Group Size
Small groups are best.
Training & Background of the Child Care Provider
Ask what training in child development the person has. How long have they been doing child care?
Low Staff Turnover
It is important to your child to have the same caregiver for as long as possible - hopefully, a year or longer.
Parent / Provider Communication
This is important for a good partnership and the child's positive experience in care.
Developmental Growth
Do the programs' child-rearing goals match your own?
A Healthy Environment
Are emergency numbers and policies posted? Locks on cabinets? Clean and safe places for children to crawl? Healthy food? Separate areas for eating, diapering, resting and playing?
Telephone Check-List
A good telephone interview can save you time and energy in your search for child care. Only set up interviews with the providers you feel good about over the phone.
- How many children are you licensed for?
- How many children will be in my child's group?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have any training in child development?
- What are some of the classes you have taken?
- What is your daily schedule for the children?
- What fees do you charge?
- What do the fees include? Lunches? Snacks? Field Trips?
- What is your policy for sick children?
- What are your days and hours of operation?
- Do you hire a substitute when you are on vacation?
- What holidays are you closed for?
- Tell me how much and what television programs children are allowed to watch.
- Do you have a current CPR/First Aid certificate?
- Can you provide references?
If you like what you hear after talking to the provider on the telephone, set up a time during business hours to observe on-site. Let the provider know you would like to come and see where your child would be spending their day. This will help you feel at ease as you tour the child care facility.
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