Choosing the Right Family Day Care

A Family Day Care center is a place where childcare is provided in a private home. When you visit a child care center here are a few questions you should keep in mind before deciding to place your child there:

1. Is the childcare center/home licensed or registered with the local government? (Ask to see a current document and find out what type of inspection was done.)
2. Can you visit the facility during normal operating hours before registering your child in the program?
3. Will the staff allow you to examine all areas your child will use?
4. Are parents always welcome visitors?
5. Is there a written plan for play and learning activities that includes active play, quiet play, nap/rest time, and snacks and meals? (Ask to see it.)
6. Are there regular opportunities for inside and outside play, and are children supervised at all times?
7. Is television viewing limited to short times and child-appropriate programs?
8. Does the center offer parenting classes or other family support?
9. Is each child assigned to one caregiver who is primarily responsible for his/her care on a regular basis? (Even if other caregivers are involved with the child's group.)
10. Does the caregiver regularly meet with parents (Ask how often.)
11. Is there a written policy about discipline? (Ask to read it.)
12. Is smoking banned from the childcare center or home during the hours children are in care?
13. Are there written policies for the care of ill children that include the responsibilities of parents? (Ask to see the policies)
14. What is the plan for the care of ill children? Is there a quiet, well-supervised arrangement for the care of ill children until parents pick them up?
15. Will the caregivers give prescribed mediations to your children? (If yes, under what conditions?)
16. Is there a health specialist, such as a pediatrician or nurse that serves as a consultant for the child care program?
17. Have staff members and volunteers had training in child development and providing a learning environment for children? If yes, when was the last time they received training in first aid and the prevention of injury and infection?
18. How long have the caregivers been working at this child care center/home? Do you believe they are experienced, qualified caregivers?
19. Are there arrangements if a caregiver gets sick or has to be away?
20. Can you get recommendations and advice from parents whose children are currently in the program?
21. Are all the costs written out and available for you to read?