How to Choose a Child Care Center
What are the rules for indoor play? Are outlets and sharp covers covered? Are toys kept clean and sanitized?
What are the rules for outdoor play? Are children protected from strangers with secure gates and fences? Are the play areas equipped with impact-absorbing surfaces?
Are working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the building? Are fire and disaster drills held once a month or more?
Who prepares the food for the center? What cleanliness standards for food preparation are in place? Are allergy lists readily available to the staff?
What is the discipline policy? Is it available in writing?
What activities are planned for the children? Are they given choices or must they participate in the planned activities?
Can you visit whenever you want?
How are employees supervised? What rules and policies are they expected to follow?
Things to observe…
- Is the child to adult ratio limit being followed? If each adult is watching 20-four-year-olds, the caregiver’s ability to give each child adequate attention will be severely limited. This is just not safe for your child.
- What activities are the children participating in? Are the activities structured or are the children engaged in free play?
- What condition is in the center in? Is it clean and well-maintained? Are the toys in good condition?
- Does the staff look happy? Underpaid and/or badly treated staff are signs that the center is not the best environment for your child.
Before enrolling your child…
- Arrange for a visit with your child and allow him/her to interact with the other children at the center. Observe how your child handles the situation without your guidance.
- Check on policies for late pick-up, vacation and other money-related concerns.
- If you really love the center but it is currently full, put your child on the waiting list. Centers often have open spots within a matter of weeks.
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