• to download a printable PDF version of questions to evaluate your child care options.

Ask these questions to evaluate your child care options:

  • Does the person who will be caring for your child have special training in early childhood education, First Aid and CPR?

  • How long has the child care provider been providing child care?

  • If there is more than one child care provider in the setting, is the total number of children in the group still small (group size)?

  • Is one child care provider caring for just a few children (low child/adult ratio)?

  • If you are considering a more formal child care program, is it state licensed or regulated? Is it nationally accredited?

  • Have satisfactory criminal history background checks been conducted on each adult present?

  • Has the program been inspected by the licensing agency within the last 12 months?

  • Does the child care provider welcome drop-in visits, parent ideas and involvement?

  • Does the child care provider get on the children's eye level to talk with them and give them lots of attention and encouragement?

  • Are there planned activities for children to do as well as lots of time for free play?

  • Are materials-such as books, blocks, toys and art supplies-available to children all day long?

  • Does the place look clean and safe and does everyone wash his or her hands often?

  • Does the child care provider have written policies and procedures, including emergency plans?

  • Does the child care provider have references?

  • You know your child best - will your child be happy there?