Essential Child-Care Questions

Choosing good child care is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Use this checklist to be sure you've picked a provider that offers quality care.

When visiting a child-care facility, ask your host the following questions:

____ Is the center licensed or registered with the local government? If so, may I please see a copy of the latest inspection report?

____ Can I visit the center during operating hours before registering my child in the program?

____ Can I examine all the areas my child will use?

____ Once my child is registered, will I be able to visit at any time?

____ Is there a written daily schedule that includes active play, quiet play, rest time, and snacks and meals?

____ Are there regular opportunities for indoor and outdoor play, and are children supervised at all times?

____ Is TV viewing limited to short times and appropriate programming?

____ Does the center offer parenting classes or other family support?

____ Is each child assigned to one caregiver who is primarily responsible for her care?

____ Does the caregiver meet with parents regularly?

____ Is there a written policy about discipline? If so, may I please read it?

____ Is smoking banned from the facility?

____ Are there written policies for the care of ill children that include the responsibilities of the parents?

____ Will the caregivers give prescribed medication to my child?

____ Is there a pediatrician or a nurse who serves as a consultant for the program?

____ Do staff members have training in child development and in providing a learning environment for children?

____ Have staff members received up-to-date first-aid training and CPR training?

____ How long have the caregivers been working there?

____ Are there arrangements if a caregiver gets sick or has to be away?

____ May I get recommendations from parents whose children are currently in the program?